Welcome

We are a well established, private Dojo offering high quality training for adults and children

under the direction of a 7th Dan Instructor, in our own building and grounds.

We offer three main avenues of interconnected study: Aikidδ, Shindδ and Aiki-Weapons

Aikidδ

High quality Aikidδ is subtle, sophisticated, powerful, gentle and effective. It is a "martial art" as applicable at work, at home or on the sports field as it is in self-defence, because it is not destructive - being based on the principles of harmony rather than on conflict. Ours is a traditional martial art in the sense that we take the time: for habit-forming practice, for a thorough education in movement, for a strong grounding in its core values, and for understanding to emerge. When practiced correctly, Aikido can have far-reaching positive effects. With time it can have a profound and creative effect on those who practice it, and those close to them.

The Aikidδ practiced at Isshinkai School is not a "fighting art." It does not rely on overpowering an opponent, with size, muscle, force, physical strength, technique or will-power. Training does not involve sparring, breaking people or things, developing aggression or joining in with violence. It does not involve rushing for the next belt or learning simplistic techniques without social responsibility.

It does involve enjoyable movement, practicing respect for others, and practicing positivity:

positive action taken very positively - leading to positive outcomes and a positive attitude.

Shindδ

Shindδ includes gentle, mind/body/spirit-balancing exercise, relaxing slow movements, meditation, breathing and self-healing. Shindδ develops resilience, the power of relaxation, and the flow of Chi, Qi or Ki (life-force or energy). It does not involve break-falls and is suitable for all ages and states of health and fitness.

Aiki-Weapons

These are principally Japanese sword and staff (Jo). Sword forms are learnt and practiced mainly with Bokken (wooden sword), special Shinnai (bamboo sword), and Iaito/Shinken (blunt and sharp blades). This kind of practice can be both relaxing and intense. Most classes are held outside and so we tend to do more sessions in the summer.