Dave, Author at Budo Mastery

November 16, 2025November 16, 2025

Teaching Martial Arts

karate, martial arts, sport, belt, competition, defense, training, fitness, activity, workout, active, healthy, lifestyle, karate, karate, karate, karate, karate, martial arts, martial arts

Below are some of the principles, or concepts that I use when teaching martial arts. Hopefully, you can use some of these concepts when you are teaching martial arts yourself.

I have been teaching Aikido to kids since 2019. Even before that I started teaching adults (occasionally). I currently hold a 2nd degree Dan in Aikido and a 1st degree Dan in Judo. A long time ago I have also taught Judo to kids. Since 2024 I teach Karate to kids. I currently hold a 2nd Kyu grade in Shotokan Karate. More info on my budo resume can be found here.

December 23, 2023November 16, 2025

Aikido training for children and its benefits

Aikido is a Japanese martial art that is based on the principles of non-violence and peaceful resolution of conflicts. This makes it an ideal choice for children, as it teaches them how to defend themselves while also promoting self-discipline, respect, and harmony. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of Aikido training for children and provide information on how to get your child started in Aikido classes.

December 23, 2023November 16, 2025

How to clean a Hakama

I have been practicing Aikido for more than 30 years and I have only had a couple of Hakama. Hakama are generally very durable, but you do want to keep them nice and clean so they can be worn for many years.

The best way, I have found, to clean a hakama is to have it dry cleaned by a professional dry cleaner. A good dry clean service can also repress the pleats of the hakama to make it look new.

December 23, 2023March 4, 2025

What are the advantages and disadvantages of Aikido over other martial arts?

If someone would ask me about the pros and cons of practicing Aikido, then I wouldn’t be able to give them a short answer. Every positive thing I can think of comes with a negative. It all depends on your point of view and your objectives for training Aikido. It’s a Ying and Yang, or two sides of a coin kind of thing.

So here are the advantages and disadvantages of training and learning Aikido over other martial arts.