Tomiki Aikido is a modern, structured form of Aikido developed specifically for broader participation. It emphasizes balance, timing, and leverage rather than strength or aggression. Anyone can practice it. It is one of the most accessible martial arts in the world, and the only form of Aikido that incorporates a competitive, sport-based component alongside traditional practice.

​

Royal Palm Aikido is affiliated with the Tomiki Aikido Association (TAA), the first and largest Tomiki Aikido organization in the United States, established in 1990. Every session Jonathan leads is grounded in that lineage and tradition.

​

Tomiki Aikido developed from Morihei Ueshiba’s Aikido, a Japanese martial art founded around 1925 that emphasizes evading attacks, using an opponent’s strength and momentum, and controlling them without unnecessary harm through joint techniques, throws, and strikes. Ueshiba’s art was influenced by traditional Japanese martial arts, spiritual disciplines, and principles of physical, moral, spiritual, and mental development. Kenji Tomiki, a highly accomplished judoka and student of Ueshiba, later combined Aikido with his knowledge of Judo and physical education. After teaching in Manchuria and returning to Japan, he developed kata-based training and freestyle competition methods at Waseda University, despite disagreements with Ueshiba and the Aikikai over introducing competition. Tomiki established the Shodokan Dojo in 1967, helped organize Japan’s first student Aikido tournaments, and founded the Japan Aikido Association in 1974, creating a distinct form of Aikido centered on structured training, practical application, and competitive practice.