“United Kingdom Aikikai” is a martial arts school and non-profit organisation located in Halesowen, in the United Kingdom. Specialising in the Japanese martial art of Aikido, the school is dedicated to teaching principles of movement and redirection for self-defence.
Aikido is different from other martial arts as it emphasises defending oneself without relying on physical strength or matching the size and strength of attackers. Instead of blocking strikes, Aikido practitioners focus on moving around them, making it a preferred choice for police and security groups around the world. The practise also includes weapons understanding and techniques to deal with multiple attackers, making it highly relevant to today's society.
The United Kingdom Aikikai (UKA) is one of the few organisations recognised by the Aikikai Foundation, the World Aikido Headquarters, with all of its principles and instructors receiving direct recognition from Japan. Each year, several members of the UKA travel to Japan to further enhance their practise and deepen their understanding of Aikido. The UKA was established in 1986 and boasts members who have been practising Aikido since it first arrived in the UK in the 1960s.
At UKA, they focus on practising traditional Aikido as laid down by the founder of the art, Morihei Ueshiba. The emphasis is on martial principles rather than any sport or competition focus, maintaining the authenticity and effectiveness of the martial art.
The school regularly organises events and seminars to foster learning and development within the Aikido community. They also have a comprehensive grading system and offer resources such as forms and administration downloads for members. The UKA website provides access to their calendar, news updates, and helpful videos for further learning.
The club has various branches located across different counties in the UK, including Bedfordshire, Carmarthenshire, Essex, Greater London, Greater Manchester, and Leicestershire. Each club has specific class times and locations, making it accessible to individuals of all ages and skill levels.
” United Kingdom Aikikai” is committed to promoting and preserving the art of Aikido, providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals interested in learning this martial art. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, the school offers a supportive community and expert instruction to help you develop your Aikido skills.
Connect with “United Kingdom Aikikai” on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to stay updated with their latest news, events, and training sessions.