Aikido Alive Manchester, guided by Sarah Thompson, invites sports enthusiasts to explore the discipline and technique of Iwama Aikido. Situated in Manchester, the club is divided into the Aikibudo Society at the University of Manchester and the Iwama Aikido club at Manchester Metropolitan University. Both sections are affiliated with Aikido Alive London, under the expert instruction of Sensei Bjorn Saw.
Focusing on the Iwama tradition as taught by Morihiro Saito Sensei, Aikido Alive Manchester offers rigorous training in Aikiken and Aikijo, along with a detailed grading syllabus. This non-profit organisation is supported by staff and students from both universities, fostering a community-driven environment.
Aikido, created by Morihei Ueshiba, is more than a martial art—it's a journey. It melds physical techniques with aspects of concentration and meditation, offering varied paths for personal growth. Unique to Aikido is its philosophy of self-defence that also ensures the safety of the attacker, a principle leading to complex, precise techniques refined over time.
Among the core teachings at Aikido Alive Manchester is the principle of blending. This involves redirecting the force of an attack rather than confronting it head-on, requiring minimal physical strength with correct technique. Emphasis on spatial awareness and handling multiple attackers further sets Aikido apart, making it adaptable even at beginner levels.
Sensei Bjorn Saw's extensive experience since 1974, including training under Saito Sensei’s representative in Europe and several years with Morihiro Saito Shihan in Japan, enriches the training at Aikido Alive Manchester. His dedication to preserving traditional Iwama Takemusu Aikido ensures a high standard of practice.
Aikido Alive Manchester offers a structured, step-by-step approach to learning, emphasising unarmed techniques (TAIJUTSU) and weapon techniques (BOKKEN and JO), with a full grading syllabus available. Join Aikido Alive Manchester to experience the depth and precision of Aikido. Connect on Facebook or their website to embark on your martial arts journey today.