What day and time is the weekly general practice at Preston Aikido Club?

We hold weekly general practice every Wednesday from 18:30 to 20:00.

Do you offer any additional extended practice sessions?

We also run extended practice every other Saturday from 09:30 to 11:30, and we ask you to call for details.

Do you welcome beginners and visitors, and is there a free first lesson?

Beginners and visitors are welcome at all times, and your first lesson is free.

Preston Aikido Sakura Dojo

Welcome to Preston Aikido Sakura Dojo, located at 26 Winckley Square in the heart of Preston Town Centre, Lancashire. The dojo is a purpose built space dedicated to the teaching and study of Aikido. Overlooking the beautiful Winckley Square public park, it offers a personal and tranquil environment for our members to grow and train.

Preston Aikido Club, which is affiliated to the BAB (British Aikido Board) and Yokohama International Aikido Club through its membership of the Lancashire Aikikai, holds weekly general practise sessions every Wednesday evening from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Additionally, there are extended practise sessions held on selected dates, with the next one scheduled for the 7th of October from 10 am to 12 pm.

At Preston Aikido Sakura Dojo, beginners and visitors are welcome at all times. The first lesson is free, so all you need to do is bring yourself (and any friends or family members) along. You can find our contact information on the website's contact page.

Ian Cherry, the Chief Instructor of Preston Aikido Club, has been overseeing the club since its inception. The club was originally based at Lancashire Polytechnic, now known as the University of Central Lancashire, before moving to Strettle's Martial Arts Centre on Fylde Road in the mid-90s. In late 2013, the decision was made to relocate the club and establish the Sakura Dojo as its new home.

Preston Aikido Club is a part of the Lancashire Aikikai, which is under the leadership of Bob Spence (6th Dan). For more information about the history and current events of the Lancashire Aikikai, as well as links to other clubs in Lancashire, Merseyside, and Greater Manchester, please visit their website.

The Lancashire Aikikai was founded by Marion Mucha, who settled in the UK after being wounded in action during World War II. Mr. Mucha practised Judo for two years before being introduced to Aikido in 1956. He was fascinated by Aikido's real fighting art aspect and began training in both Judo and Aikido.

Mr. Mucha's progress in Judo led to him receiving Dan grades, while his Aikido training was guided by Nakazona Sensei.

We invite you to join us at Preston Aikido Sakura Dojo to experience the art of Aikido in a supportive and serene environment.