Takemusu Aikido Society

The cold weather may have kept many away, but for those who ventured to the dojo tonight, the chill only served to fuel our determination.  To keep warm and energised, we ramped up the intensity of our training. The focus of the evening was Kumi Jo , and we worked through 10 sequences , each carefully practised to refine technique and rhythm. The dynamic nature of the practice not only kept us warm but also deepened our understanding of jo work within Aikido. Even on the frostiest evenings, the dojo proves to be a space where movement, discipline, and community melt away the chill. A reminder that true practice thrives in dedication, no matter the season. Looking forward to seeing more of you on the mats next time! Join Us! Our classes at Ringsend Dojo welcome new practitioners of all ages. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned aikidoka, there’s always something new to discover. For more details, visit our website at  www.aiki.ie #aikido #aikidopractice #kumijo #ringsendaikid

We started the day with the kids class , blending fun, fitness, and focus: Core strength exercises and warm-up Ukemi Mae and Ushiro – front and back rolls Shikko Mae and Ushiro – knee-walking, including a lively tug game! Funekogi Undo – rowing exercise to build body coordination Then we moved to Aikido techniques: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Katatedori Kokyuho Suwariwaza Katadori Ikkyo Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Ura Zagi Kokyuho The adults class took a deep dive into Katatedori Iriminage techniques: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Morotedori Kokyuho Katatedori Iriminage Gedan – low entry Katatedori Iriminage Chudan – mid-level entry Katatedori Iriminage Jodan – high entry Zagi Kokyuho Join Us! Our classes at Ringsend Dojo welcome new practitioners of all ages. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned aikidoka, there’s always something new to discover. For more details, visit our website at www.aiki.ie #aikido #kidsaikido #ringsendaikido #aikidodublin #aikidoire

Balbriggan Dojo was full of energy today. Here’s a look at the techniques we covered: Basic Movements: Ukemi Mae & Ushiro  – front and back rolls Shikko Mae & Ushiro  – knee-walking forward and backward Tobi Ukemi  – jumping rolls Aiki Taiso Stretching Exercises: Ryotedori Kokyuho   Ryotedori Tenchinage   Ryotedori Shihonage Omote  Ryotedori Shihonage  Ura   Tai Jutsu (Body Arts): Tai no Henko  – fundamental turning movement Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare  – incorporating fluidity Morotedori Kokyuho  – developing breath and extension The highlight of the day was Michael’s 8th Kyu test , which he completed with determination! Following his test, we spent the rest of the class refining the techniques that posed the greatest challenge for him: Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Ura   Katatedori Shihonage Omote We concluded the session with the calming and focused practice of Zagi Kokyuho . We welcome new practitioners of all ages to join our classes at Balbriggan Dojo. Whether you’re just starting out

Today in Ringsend Dojo we did Jo Suburi and Jo Kata: Tsuki no Bu Chokuzuki Kaeshizuki Ushirozuki Tsuki gedan gaeshi Tsuki jodan gaeshi Uchi no Bu Shomen uchikomi Renzoku uchikomi Menuchi gedan gaeshi Menuchi ushirozuki Gyaku yokomen ushirozuki Roku no Jo Kata Roku no Jo Awase #aikido #todaypractice #ringsendaikido #aikidodublin #aikidoireland #iwamaaikido #iwama #aikidoaikikai #takemusuaiki #aikidoringsend #takemusuaikidosociety #bukiwaza

Today was a special day as we welcomed Stefania back to training after nearly four months away! As always on Mondays, we began with the kids' class, focusing on building strength and foundational techniques. Here's a rundown of what we practised: Kids class: Tai no Henko  Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Katatedori Kokyuho Zagi Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote and Ura Shomen Uchi Kotegaeshi Zagi Kokyuho Adults class: We did an overview of key Aikido techniques to help Stefania get back on track: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare (short and long versions) Morotedori Kokyuho Shomen Uchi Nikyo Ura Shomen Uchi Shihonage Omote Shomen Uchi Kotegaeshi Shomen Uchi Koshinage (sankyo) Shomen Uchi Juwaza (against two attackers) Zagi Kokyuho It was a dynamic session, full of energy and connection, perfect for a quick but thorough review of Aikido basics! Welcome back, Stefania — we missed you on the mats! Join Us We welcome new practitioners of all ages to join our classes at Ringsend Dojo. Whether y

Balbriggan Dojo was full of people and energy today. We focused on mastering the Shomen Uchi Kotegaeshi technique. Here’s a look at the techniques we covered: Basic Movements: Ukemi Mae & Ushiro – front and back rolls Shikko Mae & Ushiro – knee-walking forward and backward Tobi Ukemi – jumping rolls Aiki Taiso Stretching Exercises: Ryotedori Kokyuho   Ryotedori Tenchinage   Ryotedori Shihonage Omote  Ryotedori Shihonage  Ura   Tai Jutsu (Body Arts): Tai no Henko – fundamental turning movement Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare – incorporating fluidity Morotedori Kokyuho – developing breath and extension Shomen Uchi Kotegaeshi   Kihon  – basic (kihon) form of the throw by overtwisting the opponent's wrist.  Shomen Uchi Kotegaeshi   Ki no Nagare  – the flowing form of the same throw. Zagi Kokyuho   Bukiwaza (Weapons Work): Jo Suburi – Tsuki no Bu : Chokuzuki Kaeshizuki Ushirozuki Tsuki Gedan Gaeshi Tsuki Jodan Gaeshi (was omitted due to the low ceilings in the dojo) Paired Pract

Today we did 20 Jo Suburi: Tsuki no Bu Chokuzuki Kaeshizuki Ushirozuki Tsuki gedan gaeshi Tsuki jodan gaeshi Uchi no Bu Shomen uchikomi Renzoku uchikomi Menuchi gedan gaeshi Menuchi ushirozuki Gyaku yokomen ushirozuki Katate no Bu Katate gedan gaeshi Katate toma uchi Hachi no ji gaeshi Hasso no Bu Hasso gaeshi uchi Hasso gaeshi tsuki Hasso gaeshi ushirozuki Hasso gaeshi ushiro uchi Hasso gaeshi ushiro barai Nagare no bu Hidari nagare gaeshi uchi Migi nagare gaeshi tsuki #aikido #todaypractice #ringsendaikido #aikidodublin #aikidoireland #iwamaaikido #iwama #aikidoaikikai #takemusuaiki #aikidoringsend #takemusuaikidosociety #bukiwaza

Our young Aikido students had a fun and energetic session today! After warming up with core strength exercises, we practised  shikko (knee-walking) and played a tag game to apply the learned skills in the adventurous environment. Then we learned forward and backward  ukemi (falling practice) and moved into some key techniques: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Katatedori Kokyuho Suwariwaza Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote Then kids learned to punch using the instructors' bodies as makiwara ! With the instructors bravely serving as practice pads, the kids got to refine their tsuki (punching) technique safely and with lots of fun. We finished with: Tsuki Kotegaeshi Zagi Kokyuho Fantastic work from all, with a perfect mix of hard work and fun! We had an exciting and high-energy adult class tonight, focusing on Ki no Nagare (flowing) techniques. Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Katatedori Kokyuho Ki no Nagare Morotedori Kokyuho Ki no Nagare Ryokatadori Kokyuho Ki no Nagare We the

We dedicated our session to refining mae ukemi (forward breakfall) skills in Tai Jutsu (empty-hand techniques) and learned the basics of Jo during the Bukiwaza (weapons techniques) session. Tai Jutsu: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare (short and long forms) Morotedori Kokyuho Shomen Uchi Kaitenage Katatedori Kaitenage Katatedori Kaitenage Ki no Nagare Zagi Kokyuho Bukiwaza: Chokuzuki Kaeshizuki Chokuzuki Awase Kaeshizuki Awase After the main class, we took our jo practice outside, focusing on the first 10 of the 20 suburi (jo swinging exercises): Tsuki no Bu (Thrusts): Chokuzuki Kaeshizuki Ushirozuki Tsuki Gedan Gaeshi Tsuki Jodan Gaeshi Men Uchi no Bu (Strikes): Shomen Uchikomi Renzoku Uchikomi Men Uchi Gedan Gaeshi Men Uchi Ushirozuki Gyaku Yokomen Ushirozuki  #aikido #todaypractice #aikidodublin #aikidoireland #iwamaaikido #iwama #aikidoaikikai #takemusuaiki #ourpractice #aikidofingal #aikidobalbriggan #balbriggan #takemusuaikidosociety #nagewaza #balbriggan #bukiwaza

Today in Ringsend Dojo we focused on the Ikkyo and Koshinage techniques. Tai no Henko  – A foundational technique to centre and balance movements with a partner. Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare (short and long forms) – Practiced both the short and long forms, working on fluid movement and connection. Morotedori Kokyuho  – Focused on breathing power and posture control. Katadori Ikkyo Omote – The basic control from a shoulder grab. Katadori Nikyo Ura – The second control from a shoulder grab. Ushiro Ryotedori Ikkyo – The basic control from a double rear wrist grab with a focus on effective hip work and the application of the kokyu movement. Ushiro Ryotedori Koshinage 1  – Application of hip work and kokyu for the hip throw with entry under the opponent's arm. Ushiro Ryotedori Koshinage 2  – Application of hip work and kokyu for the hip throw without entering under the opponent's arm. Zagi Kokyuho Join Us We welcome new practitioners of all ages to join our classes at Ringsend Dojo. Wh

Last week, we had a newcomer try Aikido, and we’re excited to share that he’s officially joined our dojo! Welcome to the journey! This session, we focused on the essentials to build a strong foundation: Ukemi : Mae and Ushiro Shikko : Mae and Ushiro Tai Sabaki : Irimi, Tenkan, Irimi-Tenkan Kokyu Undo Tanren We then moved into: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Morotedori Kokyuho Continuing with our Shihonage practice, we explored a range of footwork against Yokomen Uchi attacks: Yokomen Uchi Shihonage with a 90-degree outside step Yokomen Uchi Shihonage with a 30-degree outside step Yokomen Uchi Shihonage with a 30-degree inside step Yokomen Uchi Shihonage with a 90-degree inside step As usual, we wrapped up the session with Zagi Kokyuho .   #aikido #todaypractice #aikidodublin #aikidoireland #iwamaaikido #iwama #aikidoaikikai #takemusuaiki #ourpractice #aikidofingal #aikidobalbriggan #balbriggan #takemusuaikidosociety #osaewaza #balbriggan

Raman Sensei is back, and we’ve fully embraced the practice with renewed energy! Tonight, we focused on the basics of Aiki-Ken, working through the following techniques: Shiboru Undo Suburi 1-7 Ken Awase 1-4 (from Inagaki Sensei’s set) A fantastic session to sharpen our sword skills and reinforce the fundamentals! #Aikido #AikiKen #Suburi #KenAwase #TakemusuAikido #RingsendDojo #AikidoTraining #InagakiSensei #DublinAikido #MartialArts

Raman has finally returned from Japan after an incredible final week of training at the Aikido Founder’s dojo in Iwama. Thursday was a special day as Inagaki Sensei taught Ken no Awase and Kumitachi during the morning keiko, and reviewed techniques against Eridori (collar grab) attacks in the evening class. On Friday evening , Nagajima Sensei continued his focus on Munedori (chest grab) techniques and advanced to Sodedori (sleeve grab) techniques, finishing the class with two Jodori (staff-grabbing) techniques. Saturday morning was led by Carl and focused on Kumitachi, a set of Aiki sword techniques. Later that day, Urajima-san, a Japanese uchideshi, bid farewell to the dojo. For lunch, Hiroaki Inagaki, nephew of Inagaki Sensei, treated the group to an incredible handmade udon meal at a popular local restaurant, where people were queuing outside! Before the evening class, a large group of American uchideshi arrived, which increased the total number of Uchideshi staying in the dojo to

The kids' group is progressing greatly and enjoying Aikido more with each session. We did warm-up and core strength exercises, front and back rolling, and played some fun games to improve the kid's ability in Shikko walking. Then kids practised basic Aikido techniques, including: Tai no Henko Katatedori Kokyuho Zagi Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote Katatedori Kotegaeshi Zagi Kokyuho For the adult session, we focused on techniques against the Kosadori attack: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Katatedori Kokyuho Kosadori Ikkyo Omote & Ura Kosadori Kotegaeshi Kosadori Shihonage Omote Zagi Kokyuho Both groups showed great dedication and energy throughout the class! Looking forward to seeing everyone improve even more in the next session. We welcome new practitioners of all ages to join our classes at Takemusu Aikido Society. Whether you’re just starting out or have been practising for a while, there’s always something new to learn and explore. For more details, visit our website at

Sunday marked the conclusion of the International Aikido Seminar in Warsaw, and the final day began with a weapon session, continuing our exploration of the 31 Jo Kata. This was followed by a final Taijutsu session that rounded off the weekend of intense training and knowledge-sharing. Weapon Class (Aiki Jo): 31 Jo Kata 31 Jo Awase (Sections 13-17, 18-22, 13-22, 22-27, 27-31, and finally 1-31) Taijutsu Class: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Morotedori Kokyuho Techniques from Morotedori (various versions of Kokyuho, Iriminage, and Koshinage) Zagi Kokyuho The seminar was an incredible opportunity to meet and connect with Takemusu Aikido practitioners who arrived from across Europe. It allowed for a valuable exchange of Aikido knowledge, helped to refine both basic and advanced techniques, and strengthened the bonds between clubs. A heartfelt thank you to Wojciech Dzięcioł Sensei and the Takemusu Aikido Warsaw club members for organising such a well-executed event, and a special

Today after the long break we welcomed Sean on the mats. To help ease him back into training, we had a relaxed session to brush off the rust and revisit fundamental techniques. It was great to have him back on the mats, and we made sure the practice supported a smooth reintroduction. Here’s what we covered during the session: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Morotedori Kokyuho Katatedori Shihonage Omote Katedori Kokyunage (from Shihonage entrance) Katatedori Kotegaeshi Zagi Kokyuho We kept things simple yet effective, reinforcing the importance of proper form and connection. Welcome back, Sean! Our classes at Balbriggan Dojo offer a great opportunity to dive deeper into Aikido’s techniques. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, you’ll find something to challenge and inspire you. For more information, visit  www.aiki.ie . #aikido #todaypractice #aikidodublin #aikidoireland #iwamaaikido #iwama #aikidoaikikai #takemusuaiki #ourpractice #aikidofingal #aikidobalbr

Our assistant instructor, Jan , has been attending the International Aikido Seminar in Warsaw, Poland, hosted by Takemusu Aikido Warsaw (TAW) . While the seminar officially began on Saturday, Christian Taschner Sensei (5th Dan, Iwama Takemusu Aikido) led two classes on Friday night, providing a valuable introduction before the main sessions. Both classes were structured in the traditional Iwama Aikido style, starting with Aiki Ken and moving into Taijutsu . The classes were structured to help practitioners grasp the fundamental principles of movement, distance, and timing. These principles are the foundation for mastering more advanced techniques in future training. Friday’s Classes: First Class (Aiki Ken): 7 Suburi Migi & Hidari Awase Second Class (Taijutsu): Tai no Henko Morotedori Kokyuho Shomenuchi Ikkyo (Omote & Ura) Shiho Nage Kotegaeshi Suwari Waza Kokyuho During the Taijutsu class, Jan had the opportunity to train with Nina Fuggenthaler Sensei (3rd

Our assistant instructor, Jan, has arrived in Warsaw, Poland, to attend the International Autumn Aikido Seminar hosted by Takemusu Aikido Warszawa (TAW). The seminar, which begins this evening, will be led by Christian Taschner Sensei (5th Dan, Iwama Takemusu Aikido). As Jan arrived one day before the seminar started, he had the privilege of joining the regular Thursday evening class at TAW, taught by Wojtek Dzięcioł Sensei, the head instructor of the club. The class was a great opportunity to get into the flow before the seminar, focusing on essential techniques and movements. The session consisted of Aiki-Ken, warm-up, and Taijutsu part, covering the Ikkyo, Nikkyo, and Sankyo from a Shomenuchi attack. Wojtek Sensei offered detailed instructions on each technique, as well as insightful tips for improving Nikkyo and Sankyo by using a Jo (staff) for solo practice at home. This session provided Jan with an excellent foundation ahead of the seminar, reinforcing key techniques and prepa

This Wednesday at Ringsend Dojo, we welcomed one of our newcomers from Monday’s session to continue their Aikido journey. Our focus for the evening was on Aiki-ken , the core of Aikido practice, helping develop strong body movements, timing, and blending with an opponent’s energy. Techniques Covered: Shiboru Undo : Practicing the correct gripping and cutting motion. Shiboru Undo Irimi : Adding the entering movement to the basic cutting practice. Suburi 1-7 : A set of fundamental solo sword movements to refine technique and balance. Zengogiri : A continuous forward and backward cutting exercise. Migi Awase : Partner practice to align movements and understand the flow of techniques. It was a productive session, with everyone sharpening their Aiki-ken skills and reinforcing the principles of movement that translate to Aikido’s empty-handed techniques. Join Us We welcome practitioners of all levels to our classes at Takemusu Aikido Society. Whether you’re interested in Aikido’s weapons tra

This Monday at Ringsend Dojo, we had two great sessions—starting with our kids' class, followed by the regular adult class. Both groups worked on foundational techniques, building up their strength, coordination, and understanding of Aikido. Kid's class started with w arming up and core strength exercises  to prepare the body. We then moved into basic Aikido techniques, where the kids practised: Tai no Henko  for learning proper alignment and turning. Katatedori Kokyuho  to focus on posture and breathing power. Zagi Shomen Uchi Ikkyo   Katatedori Ikkyo , honing their control and balance. Zagi Kokyuho , reinforcing the importance of stability and connection. In the adult class, we welcomed two newcomers and focused on the basics to ensure they got a solid foundation. The techniques practised were: Tai no Henko and Tai no Henko Irimi : Fundamental turning movements to harmonise with an opponent’s energy. Katatedori Kokyuho : Continuing to develop posture and breath control. Kosa

Today’s class at Balbriggan Dojo concentrated on Osae Waza, or pinning techniques, which are a key part of Aikido’s approach to controlling an opponent. We focused on both standing and seated variations, helping practitioners refine their techniques and gain a deeper understanding of body control. Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Morotedori Kokyuho Zagi Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote: A seated version of the first control technique, emphasizing smooth hip movement and body control. Shomen Uchi Sankyo Omote Kihon: A focus on the basic form of the third control technique, applied from an overhead strike. Shomen Uchi Sankyo Henka (Uchi Mawari entrance): A variation of the third control technique involving the entrance under the attacker's arm with simultaneous wrist control.  Zagi Kokyuho  Our classes at Balbriggan Dojo offer a great opportunity to dive deeper into Aikido’s techniques. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, you’ll find something to challenge and insp

Two weeks ago, on 7th-8th September 2024, Takemusu Aikido Society had the honour of hosting a special Aikido Seminar led by Jöran Fagerlund Sensei, 6th dan Aikido Aikikai. With over forty years of experience, Jöran Sensei’s expertise is well-regarded across the international Aikido community. He has trained under some of the most respected figures, including Ulf Evenås Shihan and the legendary Morihiro Saito Shihan. The seminar attracted Aikidoka from England, Sweden, and various parts of Ireland, including Dublin and Limerick. Despite a modest number of participants, each attendee received highly personalised instructions, ensuring a deep and enriching experience, which made this seminar truly special. The seminar began with an Aiki-ken session, where we worked on Suburi and Ken no Awase, guided by Jöran Sensei’s detailed instructions. His focus on the finer points of technique helped clarify fundamental movements, adding new layers of understanding for all attendees. We then transiti

Today’s session at Ringsend Dojo centered around Aiki-ken, as we continued to develop our sword techniques and refine our movements. Practising with the bokken is an integral part of Aikido, helping to enhance focus, timing, and precision. Techniques Covered: Suburi 1–7 : These fundamental cutting exercises teach body alignment and fluidity, building a solid foundation for more advanced movements. Migi Awase : Paired work on practising the first suburi by moving to the right, focusing on connection and timing with your partner. Hidari Awase : Paired work on practising the first suburi by moving to the left. These exercises not only improve our sword handling but also reinforce the core principles of Aikido—harmony, balance, and timing. Join Us Aiki-ken is a great way to deepen your understanding of Aikido and improve overall coordination. If you’d like to experience it for yourself, join our classes at Ringsend Dojo. We welcome new members at all levels! For more information, visit www

We had a great week start with the kids' and regular classes at Ringsend Dojo! Kids' Class: Building Strength and Basics We started the session with the children, focusing on building core strength and fundamental movements through: Warming up and core strength exercises to prepare the body. Kokyu-Undo and Funekogi Undo , helping develop breath power and core coordination. We then moved into basic Aikido techniques, where the kids practised: Tai no Henko for learning proper alignment and turning. Katatedori Kokyuho to focus on posture and breathing power. Zagi Shomen Uchi Ikkyo and Kosadori Ikkyo , honing their control and balance. The class ended with Zagi Kokyuho , reinforcing the importance of stability and connection. Adult Class: Exploring Deeper Techniques The main class for adults continued to build on core principles, with a focus on essential techniques: Tai no Henko and Morotedori Kokyuho to emphasize connection and body alignment. Kosadori Ikkyo (Omote &

Today in Balbriggan Dojo we continued to study Osae waza techniques. This time we focused on Kosadori attacks: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Morotedori Kokyuho Kosadori Ikkyo Omote & Ura Kosadori Nikyo Ura Kosadori Sankyo Omote Zagi Kokyuho #aikido #todaypractice #aikidodublin #aikidoireland #iwamaaikido #iwama #aikidoaikikai #takemusuaiki #ourpractice #aikidofingal #aikidobalbriggan #balbriggan #takemusuaikidosociety #outdoorpractice #bukiwaza #aikien www.aiki.ie