Daito-ryu Aiki Jujutsu is a traditional Japanese martial art that is believed to be about one thousand years old. However, it was only made available to the public a hundred years ago by Takeda Sokaku (1860-1943). Sokaku Sensei's techniques amazed people because, unlike other jujutsu martial arts that relied on the opponent's power, his art incorporated an additional power known as Aiki.
Aiki Jujutsu requires practitioners to be relaxed and flexible, using the aggressive attack of the opponent to unbalance and control them. The art of unbalancing opponents allows even the strongest attacks to be reversed and provides a higher level of control in threatening situations compared to just punching, kicking, blocking, grappling, or locking.
The first official Daito-ryu Aiki Jujutsu class in Australia was held in Geelong on April 12, 1980, facilitated by Ross Burns. With the support of Takumakai Japan, Leigh Dicker Sensei took over the leadership of Daito-ryu Aiki Jujutsu in Australia on December 15, 2000. Daito-ryu Aiki Jujutsu Australia currently has three branch dojos and one official study group affiliated with Takumakai in Japan. All Australian dojos take their technical direction from Japan, ensuring a high level of expertise.
Leigh Dicker Sensei, the Australian Director for Takumakai Aiki Jujutsu and Kobukan, started his martial arts journey in 1975 with Tae Kwon Do while studying Architecture at Deakin University in Geelong, Victoria. After a break due to family and work commitments, he resumed his interest in martial arts in the late 1980s. Dicker Sensei received various black belt ranks, including Shodan in Daito-ryu Aiki Jujitsu, and currently holds the title of Shihan, which means “teacher of teachers.
Dicker Sensei had the opportunity to travel to Japan for the first time in August 1998, thanks to a letter of introduction to Kawabe Sensei. During his visit, he trained in various Takumakai dojos in the Osaka region, further deepening his knowledge and skills.
Daito-ryu Aiki Jujutsu Australia is dedicated to preserving and promoting this ancient martial art in the country. They offer training and classes for individuals of all ages and skill levels. With regular visits from Kawabe Shihan and exchange visits between Japan and Australia, practitioners have the opportunity to learn from experienced and highly-skilled instructors.
For more information about Daito-ryu Aiki Jujutsu Australia, including their dojos, news, and frequently asked questions, visit their social media pages and website.