Kobukan Aikido Association (Gateshead)

The Kobukan Aikido Association (Gateshead) is a well-established Aikido club based in the Northeast of England. With a history dating back to the 1980s, the association is dedicated to teaching traditional Aikido under the guidance of their chief instructor, Sensei Warren Butcher, who holds an 8th dan black belt.

As a founding member of the International Aiki-Budo Council (IABC), the Kobukan Aikido Association maintains strong connexions with other martial arts clubs throughout the UK. They regularly host and attend seminars where students can learn various traditional and modern martial arts.

Aikido, known as “The way of harmony of spirit,” is a Japanese martial art developed by Master Morihei Ueshiba, also known as 'O Sensei. ' The art of Aikido aims to bring universal harmony and world peace by overcoming violence and aggression through the harmony of spirit. Aikido does not rely on strength to be effective and is suitable for men and women of all ages and abilities.

The Kobukan Aikido Association offers classes at different locations and times to accommodate various schedules. Their Sunday class is held from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm at the Washington Leisure Centre in Washington. The Monday class takes place from 8:30 pm to 10:00 pm at the Synthonia Scout Hut in Bilingham. The Thursday class is held from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm at the Clevland Hall fc in Gateshead, while the Friday class takes place from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm at the Dauntless Gymnastics Centre in Blaydon on Tyne.

Aikido has a deep spiritual connexion, and the principles of the martial art involve blending energy with the opponent to achieve a peaceful resolution. This energy, called “Ki,” is represented by the Circle, Triangle, and Square. The Circle signifies harmony and movement, the Triangle represents conflict and posture, and the Square represents resolution and technique.

The Kobukan Aikido Association provides a comprehensive list of Aikido terminology and techniques for their students to learn. Some of these techniques include Aiki Kokyu Nage (Aiki breath power throw), Irimi Nage (entering throw), Kote Gaeshi (wrist turn over), and Sumi Otoshi (corner drop).

Whether you're looking to learn self-defence, improve physical fitness, or develop discipline and focus, Kobukan Aikido Association (Gateshead) is a welcoming and enthusiastic club that offers authentic Aikido training. Join them today and experience the benefits of this transformative martial art.