Aikido Australia, Ku-Ring-Gai Dojo

Aikido Australia, Ku-Ring-Gai Dojo is a self-defence school located in Pymble, on the upper north shore of Sydney. The school is affiliated with the Aikido Australia association and was established 42 years ago by the founder, who obtained his black belt qualification at the Iwama dojo in Japan. The dojo focuses on teaching the Japanese martial art of Aikido, with a particular emphasis on Takemusu Aiki, O'Sensei's final expression of Aikido, and Bukewaza, which involves weapon practise.

The founder of the dojo studied under Saburo Takayasu Shihan, a 7th dan Aikido practitioner, for 5 years in Australia. This provided the opportunity to travel to Japan and practise at O'Sensei's private dojo in Iwama. There, the founder received personal instruction from Morihiro Saito Sensei, a 9th dan Aikido practitioner who was a live-in student of O'Sensei for 23 years. Saito Sensei taught the founder the integration and practise of both empty hand and weapon techniques, specifically those using the sword and staff.

Aikido is known for its simple yet intricate movements that involve both physical and energetic responses. The martial art also has a strong philosophical approach to conflict. Aikido's orientation in conflict is based on harmony and the principle of aiki. This unique approach is explained in a video produced by Barry Tuchfeld Sensei of the Aikido Sarasota dojo, which can be found on Aikido Australia's YouTube channel.

With over four decades of experience teaching Aikido in the Ku-ring-gai area, the dojo welcomes individuals of all levels who want to learn self-defence techniques that are both harmonious and powerful. Classes are available for beginners, children, and experienced practitioners. The dojo's instructors have over ten years of teaching experience and are internationally graded by the Aikikai in Japan.

Aikido Australia, Ku-Ring-Gai Dojo invites anyone interested in Aikido to come and witness their practise. The full lineage, affiliation, and teaching methods can be found on their website. The dojo also emphasises the application of Aikido principles in managing conflicts in non-physical contexts. Additional resources on conflict resolution can be found on their corporate coaching website.