About PRO SESSIONS AIKIDO
Pro Sessions Aikido is a welcoming and inclusive dojo that offers a positive experience for students of all backgrounds. It is recognized as a LGBTQ+ and trans-friendly place, where students feel safe and supported. The dojo is praised for its professional and knowledgeable Senseis, including Sensei Eugene, Sensei Sandra, and Sensei Morales, who are dedicated to helping students grow both physically and mentally. Many students appreciate the sense of community, noting that everyone is kind, patient, and willing to share their knowledge, creating a friendly environment on and off the tatami. The training at Pro Sessions Aikido includes both Aikido and Iaido, which complement each other by combining physical exercise, conscious meditation, and spiritual practice. The Senseis' expertise in weapons and detailed explanations help students understand techniques more deeply. Regular attendees often find themselves looking forward to classes, with some practicing three times a week or more, enjoying the workout and mental focus that come with each session. Students also value the supportive atmosphere fostered by more advanced practitioners, many of whom have become friends. The dojo is seen as a “hidden gem” in Upland, offering a unique space for personal development and self-discovery. Overall, Pro Sessions Aikido is a place where individuals can find happiness, learn new skills, and become part of a caring community dedicated to growth and well-being.
Best place I have ever been to ! Lgbtq + and trans friendly! Sensei and Sensei Sandra are amazing and are helping me with my bipolar disorder. Its amazing !
My journey to find myself after a very recent family loss led me to this Dojo. Having started practicing Aikido as an adult without any previous knowledge has been an incredible and very positive experience. From the first moment I stepped foot into this Dojo as an observer, both Sensei Eugene and Sensei Sandra made me feel welcome. Before that, all my doubts and questions were immediately answered by Sensei Eugene in a telephone conversation that led me to attend a class that very same day as an observer. Only a few minutes into the class I realized Sensei Eugene was the right person to learn this discipline from. I was hooked instantly by his detailed ways of explaining the different techniques and his obvious passion for Aikido. I knew I needed to try this, and regretted not having gym clothes on to get on the tatami immediately. I was there for the next class. My regular attendance is three times a week, but I suspect it’s going to be more than that after my body gets used to this type of workout… no matter how tired I am, I’m always looking forward to attending the next class. I also take the Iaido class which is a great compliment to Aikido. Strict attention to detail is one of the characteristics of Iaido and total focus is key for its practice. Same as Aikido, it is a perfect combination of physical exercise, conscious meditation and spiritual practice. Sensei’s knowledge and experience in Iado and weapons help a lot to understand Aikido techniques in a deeper way and it makes everything more clear… definitely a big plus. One of the extra perks I wasn’t expecting when I decided to join the Dojo is the great group of people I get to hang out with in every practice. Everyone is so kind and patient on and off the tatami. The more advanced students are always willing to help and share their knowledge and many of them are friends now. In summary, I feel very lucky to have found Pro Sessions Aikido and I become a very happy person every time I enter its doors… I suspect you will too.