Goryukan Belper is a Yoshinkan Aikido Club located in Strutts Community Centre in Belper, Derbyshire. The club, founded in March 2009, is the only registered Yoshinkan dojo in Derbyshire and is affiliated with the Aikido Yoshinkai Foundation (AYF) in Tokyo.
The principal instructor of Goryukan Belper is Henry Pielacki, a 5th Dan Yoshinkan (AYF) and 1st Dan Shin Arash Ryu. He is supported by a team of experienced instructors, including Rob Purnell (2nd Dan Yoshinkan), Mark Revill (4th Dan Yoshinkan), Ben West (2nd Dan Yoshinkan), Kemal Shaheen (1st Dan Yoshinkan), Zo Jeffrey (2nd Dan Yoshinkan), and Sam Smith (2nd Dan Yoshinkan).
Yoshinkan Aikido is not a sport but focuses on the development and improvement of the body and mind for self-defence. Training is conducted through co-operative methods and mutual respect, without competition against others. The aim is for individuals to strive for personal improvement and reach their ultimate potential, not just in Aikido but also in their daily lives. Aikido does not rely on strength, making it suitable for males and females of all ages.
The Goryukan Belper dojo is equipped with experienced instructors who follow a well-structured training syllabus. The dojo provides a safe and supportive environment for learning and practising Aikido techniques. It is conveniently located at Strutts Community Centre, which offers ample car parking and is easily accessible by public transport, being just a five-minute walk from both Belper train and bus stations.
For more information about Goryukan Belper, including upcoming seminars and gradings, interested individuals can visit their website or get in touch with Henry Pielacki directly via email or phone. The club also provides links to other Yoshinkan Aikido resources and equipment suppliers for those interested in further exploration of the martial art.