ABOUT
Aikido, created by Morihei Ueshiba (O Sensei) in 1920s Japan, is a classical martial art with a focus on self-improvement. Aikido means "way of harmony with the fundamental force of the universe" and this martial path, or Budo, emphasizes both physical and spiritual development. As O Sensei said, "The purpose of training is to tighten up the slack, toughen the body, and polish the spirit."
Queens Aikido is a daughter school of Brooklyn Aikikai.
We currently don’t have our own dojo space. Though it is our intention to find one in the next year or two. All classes are being held at New Steel Body, a mixed-use Zumba, dance, and training studio in Sunnyside.
Instructor
Melissa Valencia
Melissa grew up in Medellín, Colombia and has lived in New York since 2005. She first trained aikido in Colombia when she was five years old under Juan Guillermo Hernández Sensei.
She then played soccer all the way through college. After graduating college and realizing she wanted to continue training seriously, she found aikido once again. She has been a disciple of R.D. Savoca Shihan for close to 10 years. She holds the rank of sandan (3rd dan).
Class Schedule
Class schedule for November 2026. Check back soon for the December class schedule.
Note: the dot indicates that there is a class that day, please click on the date to see the class time.
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November 2026
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BECOMING A MEMBER
Before beginning, you should know that Aikido is a vigorous martial art, and requires a willingness to practice in a framework that can often feel uncomfortable.
We strive to make this dojo feel welcoming and inclusive to all. People of all races, ethnicities, religions, and genders are welcome to train here.
Follow these steps to begin!
01
TRY A CLASS
Contact us and let us know when you will come for your trial class. There is a $25 fee. This will be discounted from your membership if you decide to join.
02
CHOOSE A MEMBERSHIP
All memberships include unlimited classes
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Monthly membership: $150
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New Student Package: $400 Recommended (includes your first three months of training plus, for a limited time, a free gi (uniform))
03
GET A GI AND TRAIN!
Get a gi from us for $55.
Learning a martial art takes time and dedication; it is strongly recommended to commit to training at least twice a week to help you progress.
We depend on your membership contributions to further develop this training program. We firmly believe that this training should be accessible to all individuals. If the membership costs outlined above present a barrier to your participation, please do not hesitate to speak to us.