TenShin Budo Kai Dojo

Classes at TenShin Budo Kai Dojo cost nothing: “Classes are held free of charge. No fees.” What the dojo teaches is aiki-budo, an eclectic system with aikido techniques as the base, combined with parts of aiki-jujitsu and hapkido (the Korean art, which the school also calls hapkiyoolsool). The dojo describes TenShin as “combat oriented with an emphasis on defending against multiple attackers.” Techniques often go by their Korean names, because the instructors often teach at local Tae Kwon Do schools.

Training follows two paths. One is aiki and hapki technique built on traditional aikido principles; the other is a self-defense (goshin) path that gives students practical skills while they work on the aikido concepts. Practice is cooperative, and techniques are learned with a partner. The dojo also trains students from other martial arts who want to add the TenShin concepts to their own skills. It says it takes months just to learn the basic movements, and students are ranked and promoted on the skills each rank requires.

The late Frank Ani Jr. founded the dojo in 2001. In 2002 he and Jim Eggleston, the chief instructor, founded the nonprofit Washington Aiki Association and moved the dojo to the gym at the Culture Center of New Life Presbyterian Church, where locker rooms are available. Eggleston spent 20 years in the Army and learned hapkido during two tours in Korea. Five more instructors teach with him: Robert Rose Jr. and Earl Wilson (both 4th Dan), Duane Garvin (2nd Dan), Heather Ani (1st Dan) and Jason Stauss (Sempai). The dojo calls TenShin an independent style with no affiliations.

Class meets on Monday and Thursday evenings, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Children under age 14 can train only when a parent trains with them. The dojo doesn't describe a first class or what newcomers wear, so a phone call to Jim Eggleston before turning up settles both.