Takemusu Aikido Society

Today marked the last Aikido class of the year at Balbriggan Dojo. It was a focused and rewarding session as we explored a range of Kokyunage techniques. The mats were alive with energy as we delved into the following practices: Tai no Henko  Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare (short & long variation) Morotedori Kokyuho Morotedori Kokyunage (tenkan and throw forward) Morotedori Kokyunage (tenkan and spin under arms) Morotedori attack Ki no Nagare entrance from below and from above Morotedori Kokyunage Ki no Nagare (kokyuho) Morotedori Kokyunage Ki no Nagare (from down - up to elbow control) Morotedori Kokyunage Ki no Nagare (from up - down to elbow control) Zagi Kokyuho The session provided an excellent opportunity to refine our flow, connection, and responsiveness, closing out the year with focus and enthusiasm. We’ll return to the mats on 8 January 2025 , ready to kick off another year of practice. Balbriggan Dojo welcomes practitioners of all levels and ages. Whether you’re a complet...

Today, we bid farewell to 2024 during the final Aikido class of the year at Ringsend Dojo. Although attendance was small, the energy on the mats was anything but! We engaged in an intense session, making the most of every moment to reflect on our practice and push our limits. The class covered a wide range of techniques, ensuring a thorough and dynamic training experience. We started with fundamental movements to build flow and connection before progressing to more complex sequences: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Jutai Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Ryutai We then explored variations of Kokyuho and Kokyunage, focusing on fluidity and adaptability: Katatedori Kokyuho Ki no Nagare Basic Katatedori Kokyuho Ki no Nagare Variation 1 Katatedori Kokyuho Ki no Nagare Variation 2 Morotedori Kokyuho Ki no Nagare Morotedori Kokyunage 1 (Down-Up) Morotedori Kokyunage 2 (Up-Down) Morotedori Kokyunage 3 (Tenkan) Morotedori Kokyuho Futarigake To further challenge our movement and timing, we tran...

Today, at Ringsend Dojo, we held our final kids' class of 2024, followed by an engaging adult session. Both classes showcased the dedication and progress of our practitioners as we close the year on a high note. The children’s class began, as always, with a warm-up session that included stretching and core strength exercises. This was followed by ukemi and shikko practice, laying the foundation for balance, coordination, and confidence. Building on this, we delved into essential Aikido techniques: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Katatedori Kokyuho Zagi Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Kosadori Ikkyo Zagi Kokyuho The session concluded with an atmosphere of joy and accomplishment, a testament to the growth of our young aikidoka throughout the year. In the adult class, we were delighted to welcome a special visitor returning to the mats after having practised Aikido as a teenager. It was wonderful to see their enthusiasm rekindled and to help them reconnect with the art. To ensure a smooth re...

Yesterday, 14 December 2024, marked 141 years since the birth of Aikido Founder Morihei Ueshiba. Today, at Balbriggan Dojo, we honoured his legacy by exploring Budo, a technical manual O-Sensei wrote in 1938 for Prince Kaya Tsunenori. This profound work offers insights into Aikido practice, revealing not only technical elements but also the philosophical underpinnings of the art. We began the session by reading key passages from Budo and discussing their relevance to our training today. The following principles, displayed prominently in the changing room at the Iwama Dojo, should serve as our guide: Aikido can determine life and death with a single blow; therefore, when training, observe the instructor's directions and don't engage in contests of strength. Aikido is a way that makes one person an equivalent of thousands; therefore, when training, always be mindful not only of the space in front of you but also of what is happening in all directions. Training should always be ...

 Today in Ringsend Dojo we did the first ten movements from Jo Suburi set: 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 #aikido #todaypractice #ringsendaikido #aikidodublin #aikidoireland #iwamaaikido #iwama #aikidoaikikai #takemusuaiki #aikidoringsend #takemusuaikidosociety #bukiwaza

Today we had Kids and Adults Classes in Ringsend Dojo. The kids started their session with warm-up exercises, focusing on stretching and core strength to build a solid foundation for movement. They practiced Mae and Ushiro Ukemi (forward and backward rolls) and refined their Mae Shikko (forward knee-walking) along with Mae Shikko Kaiten (rotational movements). To keep things fun and engaging, we played a shikko tag game, blending play with skill development. The class transitioned seamlessly into practicing key Aikido techniques: Tai no Henko and Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Katatedori Kokyuho Zagi Shomen Uchi Iriminage Kosadori Iriminage Zagi Kokyuho The children's dedication and enthusiasm were inspiring as they tackled each technique with growing confidence and skill. The adult class focused on Ikkyo , the foundational Aikido technique, and explored its variations and related movements. After starting with Tai no Henko and Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare , we moved into a series of ...

Today, we were delighted to welcome a new practitioner to the mats. To provide a strong foundation, we focused on essential basics and movements. Techiques covered: Hanmi (Migi & Hidari) Ashi Sabaki: Solo: Irimi, Tenkan, Irimi-Tenkan Paired: Evading Shomen Uchi attack using Irimi, Tenkan, and Irimi-Tenkan Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Irimi Katatedori Kokyuho Kosadori Ikkyo Kosadori Kotegaeshi Kosadori Iriminage Zagi Kokyuho We welcome practitioners of all levels and ages to join us at Balbriggan Dojo. Whether you’re taking your first steps in Aikido or refining your skills, our classes offer something for everyone. For more details, visit our website at  www.aiki.ie . #aikido #todaypractice #aikidodublin #aikidoireland #iwamaaikido #iwama #aikidoaikikai #takemusuaiki #ourpractice #aikidofingal #aikidobalbriggan #balbriggan #takemusuaikidosociety #osaewaza #balbriggan

Today at Ringsend Dojo, we deepened our study of the Jo , completing the final set of Jo Suburi : Nagare no Bu : Hidari Nagare Gaeshi Uchi Migi Nagare Gaeshi Tsuki Following this, we focused on the 13 no Jo Kata , honing the flow and precision of the movements. We then practised 13 no Jo Awase , breaking it into sections: Movements 1-3 Movements 4-6 Each segment offered insights into timing, coordination, and the interplay between partners. Join Us Explore the art of Aikido at Takemusu Aikido Society, where every session offers a blend of basics and dynamic practice. For more details, visit  www .aiki .ie . #aikido #ringsendaikido #jo #aikidodublin #aikidoireland #takemusuaikido #iwamaaikido #joawase #takemusuaikidosociety

Today at Ringsend Dojo, we began with our engaging kids’ class. We started with stretching and core-strength exercises to warm up, followed by Shikko and Ukemi practice. The young practitioners then explored these Aikido techniques: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Katatedori Kokyuho Zagi Shomen Uchi Iriminage Kosadori Ikkyo Zagi Kokyuho In the adult class, we focused on refining Ikkyo techniques, building on our foundational skills. Here’s what we practiced: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Morotedori Kokyuho Yokomen Uchi Ikkyo Katatedori Ikkyo Morotedori Ikkyo Zagi Kokyuho Both classes were filled with energy and determination, showcasing the importance of consistent practice in mastering Aikido techniques. Join Us! Takemusu Aikido Society welcomes practitioners of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re looking to start your journey or refine your skills, there’s a place for you on the mat. For more details, visit www.aiki.ie . #aikido #kidsaikido #ringsendai...

Today in Balbriggan Dojo, we welcomed back a member returning to the mats after nearly five months. To support the transition, we held a slow and thoughtful class, focusing on foundational techniques to help ease back into practice. Here’s what we covered: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Morotedori Kokyuho Zagi Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote & Ura Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote & Ura Zagi Kokyuho It was wonderful to see the dedication and effort in returning to Aikido practice. The class served as a reminder of the supportive community we cultivate at Takemusu Aikido Society. We welcome practitioners of all levels and ages to join us at Balbriggan Dojo. Whether you’re taking your first steps in Aikido or refining your skills, our classes offer something for everyone. For more details, visit our website at  www.aiki.ie . #aikido #todaypractice #aikidodublin #aikidoireland #iwamaaikido #iwama #aikidoaikikai #takemusuaiki #ourpractice #aikidofingal #aikidobalbriggan #balbriggan #take...

Today at Ringsend Dojo, the chill in the air couldn't dampen our spirit and focus. We kept warm by diving straight into dynamic Jo practice. We began by revisiting last week's lessons: 6 no Jo Kata 6 no Jo Kata Awase Building on this foundation, we moved on to Jo Suburi, refining movements in two blocks: Katate no Bu (One-Handed Techniques): Katate Gedan Gaeshi Katate Toma Uchi Katate Hachinoji Gaeshi Hasso no Bu (Figure-Eight Techniques): Hasso Gaeshi Uchi Hasso Gaeshi Tsuki Hasso Gaeshi Ushirozuki Hasso Gaeshi Ushiro Uchi Hasso Gaeshi Ushiro Barai As the class progressed, we were introduced to a new sequence that brought an exciting challenge to our practice: 13 no Jo Kata The rhythmic flow of these movements and the focus required kept us engaged and invigorated, proving that Aikido training is the best way to shake off the cold! Join Us Explore the art of Aikido at Takemusu Aikido Society, where every session offers a blend of basics and dynamic practice. For more details, ...

With no kids' class today, we seized the opportunity for free practice. Stefania amazed us all by performing incredible tobi ukemi pushing her limits with grace and determination! During the main class, we concentrated on techniques required for the 6th and 5th kyu tests: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare (Long and Short Variations) Katatedori Kokyuho Ki no Nagare Morotedori Kokyuho Ki no Nagare Zagi Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote & Ura Ryotedori Shihonage Ryotedori Tenchinage Katadori Ikkyo Omote & Ura Katadori Nikyo Ura Kosadori Kotegaeshi Shomen Uchi Kotegaeshi It was an energising session, combining dynamic movement and careful attention to detail. Join us at Ringsend Dojo to deepen your practice and work toward your Aikido goals. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned aikidoka, there’s always something new to discover. For more information, visit www.aiki.ie . #aikido #kidsaikido #ringsendaikido #aikidodublin #aikidoireland #iwamaaikido #aikidoaikikai #takemusu...

Today’s session at Balbriggan Dojo blended energy with fundamentals, creating an engaging and rewarding practice for all who attended. We began with Kakarekeiko , honing our flow and connection: Tai no Henko Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare Tai no Henko Ki no Nagare (Long Variation) Katatedori Kokyuho Ki no Nagare Morotedori Kokyuho Ki no Nagare The second part of the class delved into countering the Ushiro Eridori attack, exploring a variety of techniques: Ushiro Eridori Ikkyo Ushiro Eridori Shihonage Ushiro Eridori Kotegaeshi Ushiro Eridori Iriminage We closed the class with the serene yet powerful Zagi Kokyuho , a fitting way to channel and centre the energy cultivated during practice. We welcome practitioners of all levels and ages to join us at Balbriggan Dojo. Whether you’re taking your first steps in Aikido or refining your skills, our classes offer something for everyone. For more details, visit our website at  www.aiki.ie . #aikido #todaypractice #aikidodublin #aikidoireland #iw...

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 #ring...

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 cl...

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 (w...

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 W...

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 o...

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