Aikido in North Sydney

Training: The emphasis of Takemusu Aiki practice is on fundamental kihon techniques and principles, slow and precise movement, energy extension (kokyu power) and sharp powerful hip rotation. The focus is on developing strong, stable and effective static forms before progressing onto more flowing and faster movements at higher levels of training. One of the unique aspects of Takemusu Aiki is the emphasis on the interrelationship between weapons and body techniques. The practice of sword and staff is integral to the development of solid and stable body movement and powerful extension. Weapons are taught through a number of solo exercises with the sword and staff, followed by partner practices where more advanced principles are explored. Takayasu Sensei insists on all students training together regardless of level and ability in order that the whole dojo can grow together. There are approximately twenty-five to thirty regular students including a 5th Dan, a 4th Dan and five 3rd Dan students.

Dojo Philosophy: Takayasu Sensei is actively following Saito Sensei’s wish to preserve Aikido the way it was taught by O-Sensei, and encourages all students and senior instructors to maintain purity of technique and martial spirit. He believes Aikido training should be strong and martially effective, beneficial and strengthening for the body and mind, and at the same time develop the underlying principles of Aiki. The focus of the Sydney City dojo is to train students in the basics of Aikido in order for them to become in turn effective and capable teachers. This is done through the constant practice of kihon, the fundamental and basic techniques and principles of Aikido. With this solid grounding in the basics, black belt students are encouraged to pass on their learning to the beginning students whilst “developing their own Aikido”. Senior students are further encouraged to branch out and start their own dojo. The effectiveness of this approach can be seen in the number of strong and successful branch dojos under the support and guidance of the Takemusu Aiki Association.

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