Our Aim
Ren Shin Kan aims to teach traditional Aikido as instructed by the Aikikai Foundation in Japan.
You can read more about the history of Ren Shin Kan in the Club History section.
What is Aikido?
Aikido is a Japanese martial art based on the principles of movement and redirection created by during the 1920's by Morihei Ueshiba. The aim is blend with and move around strikes to create openings for technique rather than interrupting them and creating hard contact which can lead to confrontation favouring the stronger opponent.
The key points we teach are:
Moving around an advancing opponent
Blending with opponents attacks
Redirection of your opponent
The attacks that we train from in Aikido begin at a basic level with grabs, taking the wrist and moving up to strikes and weapon based attacks.
It is important to note that as this is a traditional marital art it therefore uses traditional attacks, some of which may not be considered practical in a modern day environment. That being said we do try to teach and explain the practicalities in the techniques we teach and why we teach them.
Who are the Aikikai Foundation
The Aikikai Foundation is the parent organisation for the development and popularisation of Aikido throughout the world. While not the only they are the original organisation headed by the dōshu, currently Moriteru Ueshiba the grandson of the founder.
Who are the uka
The United Kingdom Aikikai is the parent organisation for a large groups of clubs across England that maintains a close affiliation with the Aikikai Foundation in Japan. This link facilitates the ongoing technical guidance we receive via instructors visiting from the headquarters in Tokyo, and ratifies all grades awarded at shodan (1st Dan) and above. You can learn more about them here.
WHAT IS IAIDO
Iaidō, abbreviated iai, is a Japanese martial art that emphasizes being aware and capable of quickly drawing the sword and responding to sudden attacks. The 2 Schools of traditional Iaido practice Shindo Munen Ryu and Muso Shinden Ryu
WHAT IS QI GONG
The ancient Chinese art of Qigong is integral for keeping our energy balanced and mind decluttered.
In our sessions we perform the beautiful 18 movements of Shibashi, Standing Qigiong or the 8 Brocades of Ba Daun Jin Qigong.
The sessions are suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
