A Martial Way of Peace

Aikido is a Japanese martial art founded by Morihei Ueshiba Sensei. The Kannagara Aikido tradition was founded by Rev. Koichi Barrish-Sensei who continues to teach at his dojo in Kissimi, FL. Kessho Kannagara in Little Rock, AR is taught by Joe Melberg, 4th Dan.

Rev. Koichi Barrish Sensei leading an Aikido seminar at his previous dojo in Washington
  • DOWNTOWN DOJO!
    So cool! It was less than a year ago we posted that we were looking for a permanent home in Little Rock. I am now extremely excited to announce that we have a new reliable dojo location in downtown Little Rock AR. Kessho Kannagara Aikido is located at 110 W 6th St. Little Rock AR… Read more: DOWNTOWN DOJO!

What does it take to start?

Here’s a quick ‘Getting Started’ guide for new students. We cover physical condition, where to get a gi(uniform), bokken(wooden sword), and jo (staff).

Current Schedule & Location


Kessho Kannagara Aikido

110 W 6th St. Little Rock, AR 72201

6thhouse Wellness Center in Downtown LR.

DayTimeLocationDetails
Monday6:00-7:00 pm110 W 6th St. Little Rock, AR 722011 Hour class. Matts with room to study rolls and ground work. A large gym suitable for sword and Jo.
Wednesday5:00-7:00 pmUALR Fitness Center. Wrestling Room. Ground Floor in the back.2 Hour class. Matts with room to study rolls and ground work. A large gym suitable for sword and Jo. W/ Barrish Sensei on Zoom
Saturday10:00 am – 12:00 pm
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Outdoors. Murray Park Pavilion 7 | UALR Fitness Center. Wrestling Room. Ground Floor in the back. 2 Hour Class. W/ Barrish Sensei on Zoom

Grappling, Sword, and Jo Staff Training in Little Rock, AR

Aikido movement is well known for throws, joint locks and pins. When done properly, this movement comes from Japanese sword movement. We focus a lot on Kenjutsu and Jo movement to inform our pursuit of excellent Taijutsu.

Sword Fundamentals

  • Courageously face challenges
  • Respond with awareness and balance
  • Learn the secrets of explosive power and martial freedom
  • Build your ki body
Kannagara Aikido being practiced in Little Rock, AR. Melberg Sensei with student.
Kannagara Aikido being practiced in Granite Falls, WA

Jo Staff

  • Study extension and clean movement
  • Discover the power of vertical musubi
  • Discover the parallels between stick work and body work

“Warriorship is none other than the vitality that sustains all life.”

Morihei Ueshiba (O-Sensei)

The Art of Peace

Begin your Aikido Journey

Contact Joe Melberg to begin training in the Little Rock, AR area