Interested in hearing about Aikido’s history in Scotland?
This article from Google’s AI software is an interesting overview. I will share with others and see how accurate this is:
Aikido, a Japanese martial art, was introduced to Scotland in the late 1950s and early 1960s, primarily through the efforts of Sensei Ken Williams. He became the National Coach for Aikido in Britain and representative of the Aikikai in Japan, traveling throughout the UK to teach and spread the art.
Key Early Figures and Events:
Sensei Ken Williams:
A pivotal figure, Sensei Williams was instrumental in bringing Aikido to Britain and Scotland. He studied under numerous Aikikai instructors, including Nakazono Sensei, and was awarded his 2nd Dan in 1958.
Abbe Sensei:
Invited many Aikikai teachers to Britain, including Nakazono Sensei, and played a role in the development of Aikido in the UK.
East Kilbride Aikido Club:
Founded in 1967 by Sensei Tennant, it initially served as an extra training session for the Hamilton Hill Aikido Club, the first Aikido dojo in Scotland. It later grew into a distinct club and was influenced by various Aikido organizations and styles, including the Ki No Kenyukai.
The Institute of Aikido:
Founded by Haydn Foster Sensei in 1973, The Hut Dojo, the Institute’s headquarters, became a significant location for Aikido in Scotland.
Aikido’s Spread in Scotland:
The spread of Aikido in Scotland was facilitated by Sensei Williams’s travel and teaching, as well as the establishment of dojos like the East Kilbride Aikido Club and the Institute of Aikido.
Regular courses and seminars from renowned Aikido instructors, including Sensei Noro and Sensei Chiba, further contributed to the growth of Aikido in Scotland.
The early clubs and dojos focused on developing a deep understanding of Aikido principles and the unification of mind and body, as taught by Sensei Koichi Tohei.
Aikido in Scotland Today:
Aikido continues to be practiced and taught in Scotland, with numerous clubs and dojos operating throughout the country.
The art continues to evolve and adapt, with different styles and lineages represented in Scotland.
Aikido remains a valuable practice for promoting physical and mental well-being, self-defense, and personal growth.
You are welcome to join us today at Palace Of Art for our session. Beginner’s are welcome from 7.30pm to 8.30pm.
Keep Extending Ki
Sensei Ronnie Smith
Check out our website>>>https://aikidoforglasgow.com/
Aikido For Glasgow 