radio_button_unchecked What is Aikido?

Aikido Instructors

Our Aikido Program

Yoshinkan Aikido

Aikido is a graceful, powerful and dynamic traditional Japanese martial art. It is famous for its non-aggressive approach to self-defence.

Morihei Ueshiba developed Aikido as an amalgamation of his martial study, values, and religious beliefs. Ueshiba’s mission was to create a martial art that practitioners could use to defend themselves effectively whilst protecting their attacker from injury.

Aikido means “the way of unifying (with) life energy” or “the way of harmonious spirit”. Aikido is based on the philosophy of ‘aiki’. In other words, it uses the force of the attack and redirects the momentum of it to avoid competing with brute strength. Therefore, it requires very little physical strength. The aikidoka (Aikido practitioner) harmonises with the attacker’s momentum using entering and turning movements. Subsequently, the techniques are then executed with throws or joint locks.

Fundamentally, the purpose of Aikido is self-defence. However, the outcome of Aikido’s inherently non-aggressive philosophy are effective techniques using minimal strength. Unlike other martial arts, Aikido techniques can be applied at various levels of severity, from gentle controlling techniques to severe counter-measures. Therefore, it is suitable for everyone, regardless of age.

Aikido has many physical benefits such as increased coordination, stamina, fitness, flexibility, mental focus and a general sense of well-being. Furthermore, and perhaps more importantly, Aikido is a path of self development, leading to the integration of mind, body and spirit which permeates through to other aspects of life.

Gyokushin Ryu Aiki Budo

Terumi Washizu Kaiso founded the Gyokushin Ryu system of Aikido. Washizu Sensei is a direct student of the founder of the Yoseikan school of Aikido, Minoru Mochizuki. He has adapted the teachings and techniques he learnt from Mochizuki Sensei. Washizu Sensei was instrumental in the creation and development of many of the techniques of the Yoseikan.

The meaning of “Gyokushin” is “Spherical heart/mind”. This refers to the specialty of this particular style of Aiki, Sutemi waza or sacrifice throws.

Washizu Sensei awarded Jon Marshall a teaching licence in 2015 and the rare distinction of being only the second school outside Japan to represent the Gyokushin Ryu and teach its unique techniques.

Gyokushin Ryu is the thread that links older schools of Japanese Jujutsu, Judo and Aikido. It is unique because it draws on elements of throwing, grappling and striking as well as classical Japanese weaponry. Thus, this makes it an effective martial art covering all ranges of close quarters combat.

The Gyokushin Ryu style of Aiki is an excellent addition to those that already have a foundation in Aikido or other throwing arts and can easily be incorporated into your current practice. For further information, affiliation and/or upcoming workshops, please contact the dojo.