Although aikido is a relatively recent innovation within the world of martial arts, it is heir to a rich cultural and philosophical background. Aikido was created in Japan by Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969) who trained extensively in a number of martial arts before creating aikido. Aikido is not primarily a system of combat, but rather a means of self-cultivation and improvement. Aikido has no tournaments, competitions, contests, or “sparring.” Instead, all aikido techniques are learned cooperatively at a pace commensurate with the abilities of each student. According to the founder, the goal of aikido is not to defeat others, but to defeat of the negative characteristics that inhabit one’s own mind and inhibit its functioning.

We are proud that the Komyokan Dojo has now been flourishing for 25 years. We have a broad cross-section of people ranging in age from 7 to 70 who enjoy practicing with us. We welcome people from other associations – as well as complete beginners – to come and enjoy practice with us. We are a full-time Dojo with a range of classes, for a current schedule you can have a look at our timetable.

Aikido is a Japanese martial art created by an enlightened Master, Morihei Ueshiba, who had come to realise that a healthy development of mind, body and spirit needs loving, disciplined training. Aikido is a very effective self-defence system.

The Founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba was born in 1883 in Japan when many of the martial arts were still taught by masters in the old tradition. In his early manhood he mastered several martial arts including swordmanship and various forms of unarmed self-defence. At the same time he developed into a deeply spiritual person and evisaged a new system of “budo” (the way of the warrior) which would provide a basis for both physical and spiritual development. This he named Aikido: the way (do) of harmonising (ai) the spirit (ki). By “ki” is meant the creative life spirit of the universe: one’s own life-energy…” True budo is the way of great harmony and great love for all beings” wrote Master Ueshiba. That he meant Aikido to be much more than a method of self-defence is conveyed in his words ” I want considerate people to listen to the voice of Aikido. It is not for correcting other; it is for correcting your own mind”.
Unlike most of the martial arts, Aikido seeks to deflect rather than to block an action. The aim is always to harmonise with an opponent or partner’s movement and to continue with it while controlling and re-directing connected energy.
Through Aikido you can develop a complete defence against physical attack.
Aikido helps you build up your stamina, speed of reaction, flexibility, fitness and good health.

You develop a calm mind and increased confidence, as well as mental, emotional and physical stability. Movements in both the exercises and techniques of Aikido correct body posture and remove stress and tension by concentrating on relaxation and breathing. These repeated patterns eventually instil instinctively calm, relaxed responses to all situations.

You will have a more relaxed attitude, being at ease with oneself and others.
Aikido will give you new awakenings, insights and self understanding.