Ray at Maru Dojo is truly amazing. I have never been to Aikido (or any martial arts) and he welcomed me with open arms. He has always been extremely aware of where Im at in my training and sensitive to my ability (read: he knows how to push me to grow, but Im not thrown to the wolves). I have a very busy work schedule and Ive always felt welcome in the dojo even if I miss a week or two. In fact, I feel a bit like Cheers when I arrive - hes very warm and grateful to see his students. The discipline of Aikido and his students are such an integrated and important part of his life that I feel it would be hard-pressed to find a better Aikido dojo. An absolute pleasure. Highly recommended.

I dropped in at Maru Dojo for a demonstration during the recent Trolley Dances. Maru Dojo is a classic Akido dojo with a picture of OSensei -- and more. Ray sensei trained at the Pasadena Aikikai where he still teaches. Maru Dojo also offers the opportunity to train in Brazilian Ju-Jitsu, Judo and Filipino Martial arts, as I saw in the randori portion of the demonstration. Clearly, Ray Sensei wants to share the journey of self-discovery. Maru Dojo is very handy to Church Street stations and the Wiggle. Bike parking outside.

Ray is the best