Fighting Parkinson’s with Aikido

Some martial arts journeys are about more than self-defense. Some are about survival.

Sensei Ken Marvin has been training in Nihon Goshin Aikido since 1994 and has been sharing the art with students in Myrtle Beach since 2000. Over three decades on the mat, he has earned his 5th degree black belt and built a reputation as one of the most dedicated and compassionate instructors in the Nihon Goshin Aikido community.

But Sensei Marvin’s most profound journey has nothing to do with rank or technique. It is the daily discipline of living and training with Parkinson’s Disease.

In the video below, Sensei Marvin opens up about how his commitment to Nihon Goshin Aikido has supported him physically, mentally, and spiritually through his Parkinson’s diagnosis. The video also features reflections from Shihan Robert B. MacEwen, Jr., NGA International Director, who speaks to Sensei Marvin’s extraordinary dedication to the art.

What you will see is not a story of defeat. It is a story of a man who showed up, on the mat, for his students, and for himself — every single day. A husband, a father of four sons, and a grandfather of four grandchildren, Sensei Marvin brings the same quiet strength to his family life that he brings to every class he teaches.

Nihon Goshin Aikido has always been about more than physical technique. At its core, it is about harmonizing with the circumstances life puts in front of you, and responding with calm, purpose, and resolve. Sensei Marvin embodies that philosophy every day.

We hope his story moves and inspires you as much as it inspires everyone here at Aikido School MB in Myrtle Beach.

If you or someone you love is living with Parkinson’s Disease and interested in how martial arts training might help, we warmly invite you to reach out or stop by the dojo.