Gallo Sensei

Gallo Sensei has been teaching adults Aikido for 32 years and training in Martial Arts for over 55 years. He currently holds the rank of rokudan (6th Degree Black Belt) in Aikido issued by Aiki Hombu Dojo (Aikido Head Dojo) in Tokyo, Japan. His training in other martial arts includes Shotokan, Aiki Jujitsu, and Kenpo Karate, as well as a number of weapons arts. In addition, Gallo Sensei is an HHP (Holistic Health Practitioner) and a CPT (Certified Personal Trainer).

Gallo Sensei’s initial interest in the martial arts began in 1967, when he started training with Tsutomu Oshima’s Shotokan Dojo in Santa Monica, CA. Later, he studied with Ed Parker in Kenpo Karate. During this time, Gallo Sensei worked as an intern Federal Parole Officer at The Federal Terminal Island prison, in conjunction with his study toward a Bachelors of Science degree in Criminology, Law Enforcement.

In 1987, Gallo Sensei began his training in Aikido; under Kazuo Chiba Shihan, and Fumio Toyoda Shihan. Gallo Sensei made seven trips to Aikikai Hombu dojo in Japan during his Kyu and Dan ranks, staying for many extended visits to train with O’Sensei’s Son, Kisshomaru Ueshiba and Grandson,Moriteru Ueshiba.

Gallo Sensei founded Hidden Valley Aiki Kai dojo in 1992 with Paul Morris Sensei. The dojo has been in continuous operation ever since.

In 2000, Gallo Sensei changed affiliations to AHI (Aikido of Hawaii International) to study under Tsutomu Kubo Shihan (8th Dan) Aiki Kai. Gallo Sensei earned his 4th, 5th and 6th Dan ranks from Kubo Sensei, in 2002, 2005 and 2012 respectively.
In November 2015 Gallo Sense received his Menkyo Shihan 7th Dan Daito Ryu Aiki Jujitsu certification.
On December 6,2021 Gallo Sensei received his Hanshi Dan 8th Degree Certification for Daito Ryu Aiki Jujitsu recognized by three International Organizations.