San Raku Kan Aikido is a renowned martial arts school located in Birmingham, New Zealand. It specialises in teaching Aikido, a traditional Japanese martial art created by the legendary Morihei Ueshiba, also known as OSensei. The name Aikido translates to “The way (do) of harmony (ai) with energy (ki)”, which perfectly encapsulates the essence of this martial art.
At San Raku Kan, the training follows the principles of traditional Aikido, which involves both weapons and empty-handed techniques. In Aikido, practitioners learn to use their attacker's weight and strength against them, making it a highly effective form of self-defence.
Established in 1988, San Raku Kan Aikido is affiliated with the United Kingdom Aikikai (UKA), a part of the Joint Aikikai Council (JAC), and the worldwide Aikikai: Hombu Dojo. The highly skilled instructors at the school are all Dan grades and possess excellent technical knowledge. Furthermore, they hold nationally recognised coaching qualifications, ensuring that students receive top-notch training.
Chief Instructor Eddie McCalla Sensei, a 6th Dan Aikikai black belt, leads the team of experienced instructors at San Raku Kan. With over 30 years of teaching experience, Sensei McCalla is a shidoin on the UKA teaching committee and a JAC senior coach. Throughout his Aikido journey, he has had the privilege of training under some of the greatest Japanese masters.
San Raku Kan Aikido offers classes open to all abilities and beginners, with a minimum age requirement of 18 years. Classes are held on Tuesdays from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm and on Fridays from 8:00 pm to 9:30 pm. The mat fees are 5 per class or 35 per month. The classes take place at the Doug Ellis Sports Centre, located within Birmingham City University at 150 Wellhead Lane, Birmingham, B42 2SY.
The school proudly showcases its training and achievements through a gallery that includes photographs and videos from various events, such as the UKA Australian Seminar in 2014. Interested individuals can contact Chief Instructor Eddie McCalla Sensei via email at Edmund. Mccalla@sky. Com or through his mobile at 07944 973 947.
San Raku Kan Aikido is dedicated to teaching Aikido in its traditional form while contributing to the growth and development of its students both physically and mentally. With their highly skilled instructors and comprehensive training programmes, San Raku Kan provides a welcoming and enriching environment for individuals of all skill levels to learn and excel in the art of Aikido.