In A.K.I. dojos, keiko (practice) tends to be high energy and fast paced with an emphasis on sensitivity and adaptability to our partner’s movement. We use an exploratory and creative approach to Aikido study, with a grounding in basic techniques. Hence our name: “kenkyukai” means study or research group.

The scroll found in an A.K.I. dojo comprises only two characters: ai, meaning harmony, and ki, meaning spirit. The third character do (meaning path or Way, as in Ai-ki-do) has been deliberately omitted. This is because Takeda Sensei is encouraging us to find our own Way, to discover and develop the Art for ourselves. This approach is challenging, exciting and inspiring, not to mention great fun!