Coryl Crane Sensei began her Aikido training in 1978 while at the University of California, San Diego, where she was studying for a visual arts degree. In 1981 Aikido became a stronger focus in her life when she commenced studying with T.K. Chiba, Shihan (master teacher), one of the world's most respected Aikido masters. Chiba Shihan had just moved to San Diego from Japan. He would be her teacher for the next 22 years.

From 1981, Aikido training became an integral part of her life while working as a stained glass artist. (Her work can be seen in many residences and businesses throughout California.) But with the birth of her son in 1988, the balance of her life changed. Art-making gave way to raising a child, and although her Aikido practice was, for a time, at a minimum, her commitment to it never waivered. As her son grew, she wove Aikido back into her everyday life, this time as a teacher. In April of 1991, she founded the North County Aikikai, renting a room in a nearby church. The school has since grown into its present, large and airy facility in Solana Beach.

Crane Sensei was awarded the rank of 6th degree black belt in the New Year of 2002. She is a certified instructor (shidoin) of the U.S. Aikido Federation Western Region, and has long been involved in the organization. Her study of the martial arts also includes Iaido, the art of the sword (live blade) and Zen sitting meditation. Aikido has taken her to England, France, Germany, and Switzerland. She is also the co-author, with artist Joyce Cutler-Shaw, of Aikido Conversations in Drawings and Words, published in 1999.