Aikido is a powerful system of self-defense employing techniques based upon circular motions that blend with the energy of your opponent. Men, women and children can equally benefit from this martial art. Aikido promotes body flexibility, self-confidence and peaceful management of conflicts.

Aikido is a modern non-violent, non-aggressive Japanese martial art that was developed early in this century by Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969). In Japanese, Aikido means "the Way of Harmony with the Force and Principle of Nature". Aikido is derived from Japan’s traditional Budo (the Way of martial arts), yet goes beyond the realm of Budo; it is a path on which the keen edge of martial art is used as a "Way" to spiritual growth.

Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido, studied many traditional Japanese martial arts, including ju-jitsu and the art of sword. He joined the imperial army and fought in the Russian-Japanese war of 1905-6. This first taste of war along with other experiences during the two world wars, strengthened his opposition to the use of martial arts for destructive purposes. Having opened his own Dojo in 1930, Ueshiba began his search for the true meaning of Budo as a path for man’s spiritual growth. In 1942, Aikido was officially recognised as Ueshiba’s martial art. Until his death, at the age of 86, O’Sensei, as he came to be known, continued training and teaching his students and saw Aikido spread throughout the world.

We offer classes in the art of Aikido, including body arts, weapons, Iai Batto-Ho and Zazen. Weapons are Jo (wooden staff), Bokken (wooden sword) and Tanto (wooden knife). Iai Batto-Ho is the art of drawing a real sword (Iaito or Katana) and Zazen is sitting meditation.