Today we’d like to introduce you to Lee Lavi.
Hi Lee, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
North Valley Aikikai was established in October 2005, with the vision of creating a community-oriented center for martial arts and Yoga. The idea was to include people of all ages and walks of life, to provide a space to help kids and adults achieve balance and skill in their lives. I was an apprentice of an Aikido master for six years, traveling back and forth between Los Angeles and Berkeley. With over a thousand training hours a year, I eventually became an Aikido teacher and was ready to open a dojo.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Building a dojo a dojo community takes time, and we struggled for our first few years to keep afloat. This changed as more members joined and classes were filled up. With normal ups and downs, we trended towards a steady growth and peeked just before COVID hit and we received the closure orders from the county.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I currently hold the rank of 5th Dan (5th-degree black belt) in Aikido. I have four decades of martial arts experience. I started my martial arts path in my teens as a Judo competitor and continued in my military service as an officer in the Israeli Defense Forces, where I trained in Krav Maga. During the years, I cross-trained in various martial arts. I have devoted my life to martial arts practice and teaching.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
North Valley Aikikai was also an active member of the nonprofit community. We collected and donated to aid homelessness, fire victims, families in distress, children organizations and more. During COVID, we have been training outdoors and adjust with the variables, such as daylight time change, smoke conditions, rain, etc. We are determined to continue our training and keep our community safe and healthy.
Pricing:
- Kids classes $75 a month
- Family private class $125
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: http://www.NorthValleyAikikai.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northvalleyaikikai
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/pages/category/Martial-Arts-School/northvalleyaikikai/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/user/northvalleyaikikai
- Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/north-valley-aikikai-northridge
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