The Kobukan Aikido Association (Washington) is a renowned Aikido club located in Washington, New Zealand. Established in the 1980s, the association has been teaching traditional Aikido under the guidance of their esteemed chief instructor, Sensei Warren Butcher (8th dan). As a founding member of the International Aiki-Budo Council (IABC), the association maintains strong connexions with other martial arts clubs across the UK. They regularly organise and participate in seminars where practitioners can learn various traditional and modern martial arts.
Aikido, also known as “The way of harmony of spirit,” is a Japanese martial art founded by Master Morihei Ueshiba, affectionately referred to as 'O Sensei'. The goal of Aikido is to bring universal harmony and world peace by transcending violence and aggression through the harmony of spirit. Unlike many other martial arts, Aikido does not rely on physical strength but rather emphasises blending and redirecting an opponent's energy. This makes it suitable for individuals of all ages and abilities, including both men and women.
The Kobukan Aikido Association offers classes at different locations in Washington and Gateshead. On Sundays, they conduct sessions from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm at the Washington Leisure Centre in Washington (NE38 7SS). Mondays are reserved for the Synthonia Aikido Club, where classes take place from 8:30 pm to 10:00 pm at the Synthonia Scout Hut on Greenwood Road in Bilingham (TS23 4BA). The Gateshead DoJo holds classes on Thursdays from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm at the Clevland Hall Football Club in the Old Lyndhurst School, Easedale Gardens in Gateshead (NE9 6TA).
Lastly, the Blaydon DoJo offers classes on Fridays from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm at the Dauntless Gymnastics Centre on Whiteley Road in Blaydon on Tyne (NE21 5NJ).
Aikido is deeply rooted in spiritual principles that involve blending one's energy with that of the opponent to achieve a peaceful resolution. The concept of “Ki,” representing energy, is symbolised by a Circle (harmony and movement), Triangle (conflict and posture), and Square (resolution and technique). The association focuses on teaching and practising these principles to ensure practitioners understand the true essence of Aikido.
The Kobukan Aikido Association provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers various techniques, attacks, and general terminology used in Aikido. Some of the techniques they teach include Aiki Kokyu Nage (Aiki breath power throw), Irimi Nage (entering throw), and Juji Garami Nage (cross arm throw). They also emphasise the importance of proper terminology and understanding the principles behind each technique.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced Aikido practitioner, the Kobukan Aikido Association (Washington) welcomes you to join their club and embark on a journey of self-improvement, physical fitness, and spiritual growth. Get in touch with them through their website or visit their gallery to see the artistry and grace of Aikido in action.