Aikido is the Art of Peace, where you seek never to attack but to resolve conflict by deflecting, redirection, suppressing or destabilising your opponent using body movement to neutralise and control a threat. Techniques used in Aikido can be extremely powerful and if applied at full force can break bones and damage joints.
Although its roots are based in the history of the Samurai going back hundreds of years. Aikido is a relatively new Martial Art founded by Master Morihei Ueshiba 1883 to 1969, who dedicated many years of training in mastering various martial arts including Ju-Jutsu, the use of the Spear (Yari), Short Staff (Jo) and Sword (Bokken). This combined with a very deep belief in Zen and Shinto Buddhism helped make Akido what it is today.
Although Aikido has an emphasis on personal and spiritual development, it is a physical art, and it’s true core value is as a self-defence martial art. Where function and form have to be applied to deal with an attacker, and therefore one has to develop a strong Spirit and Calm mind.
True Victory is Self-Victory
In other words, if you can’t control yourself then you can’t have control over others.
Founded of Aikido meaning (Ai = Harmony, Ki = Energy, Do = Path) Created his new Art in the Prefecture of Japan called Iwama, where he built his new Dojo (Training Hall). Hence we use the name Iwama Style Aikido which relates to own private Dojo. The Hombu Dojo came later and became the world headquarters of Aikido in Tokyo.
One of his original students Morhiro Saito Sensei 9th Dan (1928 – 2002) trained with O’Sensei for over 24 years and dedicated his life to O’Sensei as one of his most loyal students and looked after him until he died. He was the only one to receive the deep understanding of Aiki Ken and Jo directly, becoming heir and guardian of the Iwama Dojo and Aiki–Shrine. He dedicated his life to the teachings of the true fundamentals of Aikido taught by O’Sensei and is a main pillar in the Aikido world today.
Pat Hendricks Shihan Sensei is a direct student of Morehei Saito Sensei and has over the years, spent 6 years of full time training as Uchideshi (live in student) at the Iwama Dojo. She has dedicated her life to the teachings of O’Sensei as taught by Saito Sensei for almost half a century. She Is a world renowned teacher who teaches all over the world and has been made a Aikikai, USA representative of the Hombu Dojo and is Head of Division 1, of Californian Aikido Association.
John Gorzanski 6th Dan Aikikia has also followed the teachings of O’Sensei through the teaching of Saito Sensei and has trained directly under his instruction. He started training in 1990 with a number of direct world renowned teaches of Saito Sensei and has attended many seminars and numerous Uchideshi over the years.
In 2002, John went to the USA for 7 weeks of Uchideshi training with Pat Hendricks Shehan Sensei and since then has dedicated himself as a direct student to her Aikido path. Since then John has continued to train with Sensei Pat consistently as Uchideshi and as student at her seminars. John has himself been teaching since 1997, when he established Takemusu Aikido Salisbury and has held many seminars around the country and abroad.
John now teachers Takemusu Seishin-Aikidio from his private home Dojo, in the New Forest, Hampshire, where he not only offers weekly classes for adults of all ages and abilities but also holds private lessons with possibilities for Uchideshi programmes. The change from Takemusu Aikido Salisbury to Takemusu Seishin-Akidio reflects the evolution of personal and spiritual direction in his training.
When used together, Takemusu Seishin emphasizes that the ultimate goal of martial training is achieved when the Spirit (Seishin) is so clear, unified, and centered that it spontaneously allows for the Infinite Generation of Technique (Takemusu).
It is the highest state of mastery in Aikido, where technique is not merely memorised, but is born from a state of total spiritual and mental readiness and harmony with the universe.
Our Aikido school is a welcoming community built on respect, focus, and harmony. We offer a calm and supportive environment where students can develop both physically and mentally, regardless of age or previous experience.
Our dojo in Hyde is a peaceful retreat set in a beautiful rural landscape. Surrounded by greenery and far from the noise of the city, it offers an idyllic and focused environment for Aikido practice.
The fully converted training space is bright, spacious, and thoughtfully designed. Traditional wooden weapons racks, a large mirrored wall, and high-quality mats create a harmonious balance between authenticity and comfort. Natural light fills the room and connects the indoor practice area with the calm garden outside.
This quiet and welcoming setting allows students of all levels to train with concentration, respect, and a deep sense of presence — in the true spirit of Aikido.
Aikido is a fascinating martial art that emphasizes balance, awareness, and non-aggression. It is often described as the way of peace and harmony — a practice that transforms conflict into cooperation rather than opposition.
Like any art or discipline, Aikido gives back what you put into it.
These classes are open to new members. We especially welcome beginners who wish to develop Mind, Body and Spirit through Aikido.
| Day | Time | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm | Evening Class | All levels welcome |
| Thursday | 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm | Evening Class | All levels welcome |
| Saturday | When available | All levels welcome, Walk in / walk out |
We are an adults-only club (18+). You are never too old to train.
Looking for a martial art that supports your personal, physical, and spiritual development?
Have you trained in martial arts before and feel the call to return?
Or are you searching for a practice focused on conflict resolution — perhaps as a complete beginner?
No matter your age or experience level, training is adapted to your individual abilities, allowing you to grow step by step at your own pace.
For more information, feel free to contact John directly. To stay up to date with upcoming events, please visit our Facebook page.
Classes, private lessons, and Uchideshi training are available upon request.
