About Us

Created by Morehei Ueshiba, known throughout the aikido world as O Sensei which means great teacher, Aikido’s guiding principle is harmonisation. Aikido develops centered, flexible, dynamic movement (tai sabaki) in its practitioners which when combined with neutralization or projection techniques (waza), creates a powerful, almost effortless system to control aggressors.

Because harmonisation not confrontation is at the heart of aikido, it has a simple ethic: if attacked, offer a sincere, robust defence but without hurting your aggressor Although it does take time to become proficient, the training is enjoyable, challenging and rewarding. People of all ages and abilities benefit in a variety of ways from embarking upon the Aikido journey.

AIKIDO is a Japanese art of self-defence whose origins can be traced back to the 12th century. It is based on an attitude of non resistance rather than on the confrontation of strength on strength. An attack is not blocked it is re-directed and controlled in a way that causes the assailant to be thrown by the force of his own attack.

In addition to throws Aikido employs a variety of techniques applied to the attackers joints. When applied these techniques will leave no serious injury only the swift neutralisation of an attack. However, if necessary the techniques can be lethal.

Aikido is perhaps the most subtle and graceful of the martial arts and embraces an immense range of techniques that may be employed against all manner of attack, armed or otherwise. It is unique in that it teaches the practitioner to defend against attack by more than one assailant.

Aikido, when performed correctly, requires no great physical strength and may be practiced by anyone regardless of age or sex. Its effectiveness is due to the fact that it has no set rules making it one of the most practical forms of self defence.

Aikido provides a form of all round physical exercise that could hardly be surpassed promoting suppleness, agility, increased co-ordination and speed of reaction. Aikido is a most effective martial art recommended for those whom the more aggressive and competitive arts have less appeal.

The newly formed organisation was initially supported by K. Chiba Shihan, who was the founder of Aikido in the UK and was a direct student of Ueshiba Sensei. Chiba Shihan was sent to the UK to build on the work started by Kenshiro Abbe Sensei.

Its formation came from a desire to create an organisation of sincere, dedicated practitioners that integrates and encourages training within everyday life. This philosophy remains within core UKA values today

The UKA is directly affiliated to the Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, the world headquarters of Aikido. Senior teachers from Hombu visit the UKA on a regular basis ensuring teachers of the UKA are kept on top form! All members grades are awarded by senior UKA teachers (Shidoin) and are authorised by Hombu dojo ensuring that all ranking is recognised world wide.