Jonathan Reid Shihan

6th Dan

Reid Shihan has been fortunate to have studied with several live-in apprentices, Uchideshi, of the founder of Aikido, O-Sensei, including:

• Yoshimitsu Yamada Shihan, 8th Dan, Chief Instructor New York Aikikai
• Seiichi Sugano Shihan, 8th Dan, Samurai Lineage, Appointed to introduce Aikido in Australia, taught in Europe, Belgium, France and New York Aikikai
• Kazuo Chiba Shihan, 8th Dan, Hombu Dojo Tokyo, Japan, dispatched by founder O-Sensei to spread Aikido internationally.
• Mitsunari Kanai Shihan. 8th Dan, Instrumental in the development of Aikido in the United States and Canada. Master of iaido, rapid sword drawing.

Reid Shihan has trained closely with other high level instructors including members of the United States Aikido Federation Technical Committee including:  Irvin Faust Shihan, 7th Dan;  and Yukiko Katagiri Shihan, 7th Dan

From Student to Shihan — The Journey of Jonathan Reid

Every martial artist remembers the first time they stepped onto the mat.
For Jonathan Reid, that moment began a journey that would take him across continents, through countless hours of training, and deep into the living history of one of the world’s most graceful yet powerful martial arts: Aikido.

A First Step into a Lifelong Path

When Reid first encountered Aikido, he was struck by its beauty — the way it blended precision and power, the effortless way a skilled practitioner could redirect an opponent’s energy. It was unlike anything he’d seen before. There were no trophies or competitions, only the quiet intensity of practice, the respect between partners, and the pursuit of mastery.

He was hooked.

Learning from the Legends

Over the years, Reid sought out the very best teachers he could find. His dedication led him to train under several Uchideshi — live-in apprentices of Aikido’s founder, Morihei Ueshiba (O-Sensei).

He learned timing and presence from Yoshimitsu Yamada Shihan, a master who brought Aikido to the heart of New York City.
From Seiichi Sugano Shihan, he absorbed the blend of Samurai heritage and modern compassion that defines Aikido’s spirit.
Kazuo Chiba Shihan taught him the precision and discipline of Hombu Dojo, Tokyo’s home of Aikido.
Mitsunari Kanai Shihan shared not only Aikido techniques but the mastery of Iaido — the art of drawing the sword with lightning speed.

These were not just lessons in technique. They were lessons in patience, humility, and the relentless pursuit of personal growth.

Earning the Title of Shihan

After decades of study, teaching, and dedication to the art, Reid was awarded the title of Shihan — teacher of teachers. This honor, bestowed by the Aikido authority in Japan, is reserved for those who have reached the highest levels of skill and understanding.

Yet for all his accomplishments, Reid’s greatest pride is not in his rank or lineage — it’s in his students.

A Teacher Who Trains With You

Ask anyone who trains at Aikido of Central New York, and they’ll tell you: Reid Shihan teaches with the same humility he learned from his own masters. He trains alongside his students, offering guidance with patience and encouragement. Whether you’re a beginner learning your first roll or an advanced student refining a complex technique, he meets you where you are — and helps you move forward.

Carrying the Tradition Forward

Reid sees himself as part of a chain — a direct link to the founder of Aikido, entrusted with carrying the art forward without losing its heart. His dojo is a place where that tradition lives on, not in dusty history books, but in the living, breathing practice of every student who steps onto the mat.

Your Invitation to Begin

If you’ve ever thought about trying martial arts, this is your chance to learn from a true master — in a welcoming, supportive environment.
Your first class is free. You may walk in as a beginner, but you’ll leave with something more: a spark that could become your own lifelong journey.