Michael Baron began his martial arts training in 1980 at Chung Moo Doe in Newton, Ma. He earned his second degree black belt in that art before turning his attention to Aikido and Iaido. In 1997 Baron met Mistunari Kanai Shihan, and trained under him until his passing. His less formal training includes Tai Chi Chuan, QiGong and actively studies in Thervavada Buddhist meditation.
Michael is also an English teacher, a novel and screenplay writer, and an amateur sword maker. Part of this unique gift he received from his teacher was an appreciation of Japanese swords, fittings and the process of making these timeless pieces of art.