Let me say that this past weekend's seminar with Howard Popkin Sensei was absolutely one of the best weekend's of training I have ever had. The Daito Ryu techniques as taught by Okamoto Sensei, Howard's teacher, are completely compatible with what my own Aikido teachers are doing and what I, myself, have been working on.

Popkin Sensei's ability to clearly explain and his talent at sequencing a set of lessons into a coherent whole is top rate. If you want your Aikido to operate using sophisticated "aiki" principles rather than just powerful technique, then don't miss a chance to train with Popkin Sensei, or of course, his teacher, Okamoto Sensei.

This weekend I had the opportunity to observe a few hours of a Daito Ryu Roppokai seminar taught by Howard Popkin Sensei. I enjoyed the work that I saw and enjoyed Sensei Popkin’s style. He taught both with humor and honesty, and great skill. He showed the work fast then slowed it way down so that the students could get a better handle on details and concepts that he was showing. As the students were applying the lessons he would walk around making the little corrections needed and then also showing the little changes to the techniques to make the same movement and technique into an old school variation putting the opponent into position for multiple breaks and held with-in range and off balance for close in weapons finishing work. The students, Aikido-ka from the area and Canada were enthusiastic and skilled as they explored both the similarities and the differences between their chosen arts and the material that Sensei Popkin provided. Sensei Popkin represented himself and his teacher (Okamoto Sensei) and their art very highly. I can highly recommend training with Sensei Popkin if ever have the opportunity.

I was fortunate to be in the area on business last weekend and attended the June 2nd class. I have not seen Howard in over 7 years so it was good to catch up and train together. I know Howard has been training very hard with Okamoto Sensei for many years and his efforts are definitely paying off. Howard is a very skilled practitioner of Roppokai and also an excellent teacher. His understanding of the techniques and ability to explain/teach the Roppokai techniques is top-notch. This can also be seen in many of his students, who are also skilled (always a good sign). For anyone interested in Roppokai DRAJJ I can recommend checking out Howard. Also he is hosting Okamoto Sensei twice more this year. The opportunity to train with someone of Okamoto's caliber simply does not happen very often and at 82 years of age there is no time like the present.

The subtlety of Roppokai technique is the Holy Grail that so many aikidoka search for. I've seldom seen it done so well, and never seen it taught so well. I'll be there when Howard returns to Boca June 23-24 and I've told many of my friends around S. Fl. that they'd be missing something indeed if they didn't come.

After training for several years in karate based styles wherein I achieved two shodan ranks, I sought to train in a system with a different approach to self-defense. The subtle off-balancing techniques utilized in jujitsu, coupled with the crippling joint locks used to incapacitate attackers, was precisely what I was looking for. I hoped that I would find a school in which highly knowledgeable teachers maintained intimate involvement in imparting their knowledge in an effective, enjoyable manner, with true concern for the growth and development of their equally committed students. Sensei Popkin and Sensei Brogna, who run the Popkin Brogna School of Self Defense, have more than exceeded my expectations. Apart from being incredibly knowledgeable and skilled martial artists who each hold a profound appreciation for the history of the Art, they are each adept at transmitting their extensive knowledge in a thoroughly understandable and effective manner. Moreover, they treat their students with dignity, patience, and as friends.

The dojo at PBSD is incredible. From its beautiful wood work to the heavily padded mats that can cushion even the most severe of falls, no one can deny that Sensei Popkin and Sensei Brogna have created a stunning and practical environment in which to teach. Indeed, their dojo is itself a manifestation of the pride that they take in what they do. For those seeking to train under the tutelage of knowledgeable, caring, and committed teachers, I can give no higher recommendation than I do to the Popkin Brogna School of Self Defense.

This self-defense center is great for both kids and grownups. I joined a year ago and loved going so much that my 7 year old daughter just signed up too. Both Sensei Popkin and Sensei Brogna are incredibly knowledgeable and careful in each class to make sure that newer students feel comfortable and stay safe. They are both down to earth, easy to ask for guidance and have a wonderful rapport with their students, young or old. I would recommend this dojo to anyone!

This Martial Arts school is excellent. The teachers are very knowledgeable and their experience helps to provide the best training possible. They have something for everyone at this school. In comparison to other martial arts schools this school stands out from all others because of sheer excellence and the teachers dedication to all the students. The teachers strive to make the learning environment safe and effective for all who attend. Other schools and teachers cannot convey the skills and techniques as well as the teachers at this school. This school is truly stands out as the greatest of martial arts school, ensuring that everyone goes away with plentiful knowledge on how to defend themselves in real world situations.

I highly recommend this Traditional Japanese School where personal attention is given to each student by Sensei Popkin and Brogna.
I have experiensed other schools and styles of martial arts and can confidently recommend this school. I personally feel it is a "five star" dojo operated by very repected and renouned teachers. The Dojo is both safe and inviting.
This school offers different styles of martial arts from Roppokai to Jujitsu. There are classes available from self defense to more intense traditional classes for both the novice and experienced martial artists. They also provide kickboxing aerobics if you are up for the challenge!
Any individual or parent seeking a top notch school taught by Masters of the Arts, should consider Popkin Brogna Self Defense.

My 7 year old son has been attending the Popkin Brogna Self Defense Center over the past year. He has learned a tremendous amount and the method of teaching is superb. Both Senseis are extremely motivating, patient and encouraging, and they teach the kids discipline in a very positive way. The classes are both educational as well as a lot of fun. My son looks forward to going to karate every week and I HIGHLY recommend this dojo for all ages.

Real authentic dojo dedicated to student's excellence. Two very experienced intructors. Small student to instructor ratio. Great jujitsu, aiki and self defense training. They also recently added kickboxing.