Furness Aikido

Furness Aikido, located in Barrow-in-Furness, is a martial arts club dedicated to the practise and teachings of Aikido. The club is part of the Shobu Aikido UK association, which was founded by George Forbes Sensei, a highly experienced and respected practitioner with over 35 years of Aikido training and teaching.

George Forbes Sensei has trained extensively in various countries including Japan, Belgium, France, Spain, and the USA, learning from different Sensei. His passion lies in the teachings of Nobuyoshi Tamura Shihan and Pierre Chassang Shihan, who was the Technical Director of Shobu Aikido UK until his unfortunate passing in 2013.

The style of Aikido practised at Furness Aikido is based on the foundations given by Tamura Shihan, resulting in what is called Shobu Aikido. This style encompasses physical, mental, spiritual, and ethical disciplines, making it a holistic and unique martial art. It includes techniques such as empty-hand defences, sword, stick, and knife defences.

Aikido itself, which translates to “the way of harmony,” was founded by Morihei Ueshiba, also known as O'Sensei, around 1925. While it incorporates knowledge from other martial arts, Aikido is a distinct and subtle art on its own. Its purpose is to bring the practitioner to self-realisation and unite the mind and body with nature. The goal in executing an Aikido technique is to subdue an attacker with minimal harm, focusing on blending with and redirecting the attacker's energy.

One of the distinguishing aspects of Aikido is that it does not rely on physical strength, making it accessible to individuals of all sizes, strengths, and ages. Practising Aikido can result in improved health, confidence, a clearer mind, and a more relaxed attitude. It teaches practitioners to harmonise with the energy of an attacker and applies this principle not only on the mat but also in daily human relationships.

Furness Aikido is part of the Shobu Aikido UK association, which currently comprises four dojos across England. In addition to the Barrow-in-Furness dojo, there are also dojos located in Dalton, Ulverston, Sheffield, Rotherham, and Fakenham.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced martial artist, Furness Aikido welcomes everyone to join them on the path of Aikido. The club offers a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals seeking to improve their physical and mental well-being through the practise of this unique martial art.