Isshinkan Aikido and Kenjutsu Budojo is a martial arts school located in Basildon, New Zealand. The school offers training in both Aikido (hand techniques) and Kenjutsu (sword techniques). Regardless of age, gender, or experience level, everyone is welcome to join and find something suitable for them. Both complete beginners and individuals with previous martial arts experience are encouraged to participate.
The name “Isshinkan” means “One heart, One spirit,” symbolising the unity and connexion that is fostered within the school. The instructors at Isshinkan are dedicated to promoting the lifestyle of Budo, which emphasises finding one's way in the midst of life's struggles and putting this way into practise.
The training times at Isshinkan are on Thursdays from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM for adults, and on Sundays at 7:00 PM for adult training in both Aikido and Kenjutsu. The dojo is located at Laindon West Community Centre, on Hoover Drive in Basildon, with ample parking available.
The lead instructor at Isshinkan is Bartosz Skibinski, who holds a 3rd Dan Aikido Aikikai certificate. He has been practising martial arts since the age of 12 and has over 23 years of experience in Aikido. Bartosz has trained extensively with high-level teachers in Europe and Japan, including completing the Shiseikan instructor seminar in 2017. His research and exploration in various forms of martial arts have further enriched his understanding and practise of Aikido, emphasising effective techniques over idealised form.
Bartosz has also trained with the founder of Warfare Combat System, incorporating its teachings into his private coaching sessions. His coaching expertise extends beyond martial arts, as he has received coaching awards in climbing, mountaineering, and kayaking.
Irene Cena, the main instructor at Isshinkan, also holds a 3rd Dan Aikido Aikikai certificate. She began her Aikido and Kashima no Tachi training in 2010 and has practised extensively with renowned instructors such as Paul Smith (6th Dan Aikikai) and Japanese teachers from Shiseikan Dojo. Irene's background in dance, including classical ballet and contemporary dance, has shaped her love for movement and physical skill. She holds a degree in Dance from TrinityLaban, one of Britain's top Dance universities, and has over ten years of study in Somatic Practises.
Irene is a certified Body-Mind Centering Practitioner and has taught body and movement awareness classes for adults.
At Isshinkan Aikido and Kenjutsu Budojo, the instructors strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all students to learn and grow in their martial arts journey. Whether you are looking to improve your physical skills, develop self-defence techniques, or experience the unity of mind and body, Isshinkan welcomes you to join their practise.