Berkshire Hills Aikido is an independent dojo located in western Massachusetts
Berkshire Hills Aikido came about on March 17, 2001. Ron Ragusa decided that the time had come to part ways with Shuji Maruyama, Sensei after 25 years as his student. Ron started training in Kokikai Aikido with Laura Dubester, a direct student of Murayama, at the Pittsfield YMCA in 1976. Mary Eastland started training with Ron in Dalton at the Cow House in 1987 and has been with him ever since.
Ron and Mary have continued to emphasis ki development and self-defense through their dedicated teaching and training in Berkshire Hills Aikido which incorporates the traditional ideas of aikido with a modern American sensibility. We train in a relaxed, respectful atmosphere. Our emphasis is on safety, mindfulness and fun.
