What does Masakatsu Agatsu Mean?

The principle of shodo-o-seisu helps one have a deeper understanding of O'Sensei's teaching of masakatsu agatsu or "true victory is victory over oneself." If you calmly maintain control over yourself, you will not only find a way to control the opponent but will also be able to control the situation before drastic action is necessary. There will be no need to consider winning or losing, since there will be no contest. Both sides will be winners — the would-be attacker who didn't need to attack and the would-be defender who didn't need to defend.

"True victory is self-victory."

Morihei Ueshiba

Our Style?

Our style of Aikido is traditional Aikikai. Our Taijutsu (Unarmed techniques) is traditional Aikikai and our Buki Waza (weapons system) are influenced by Saito Sensei and the Iwama System. Our affiliations give access to grades recognised by the Aikikai Foundation, International Aikido Federation and the Institute of Aikido. We are members of the British Aikido Board (via the IOA) and in turn the Britsh Sports Council. The Kaiso Sensei are Andy Watkinson and Dan Hopkins.  Assisted by Steve Sensei. All Sensei are insured and have attained their Coaching certificate under the BAB.

Masakatsu is proud to have been awarded its name by Gillermo Perez 5th Dan of the Spanish Aikikai. Our syllabus is greatly influenced by the Spanish Aikikai, whos growth was achieved with the input of great Masters like the late Tamura Sensei. We are pleased to hold seminars when Guillermo visits the uk.

Masakatsu Aikido is affiliated with and supported technically by John Gorzanski of Takemusu Aikido Salisbury. Takemusu follows Iwama Ryu Aikido was formulated by Morihiro Saito sensei who dedicated his life to preserving the aikido taught by O'Sensei. Saito sensei systemised the Tai-Jutsu (Body Techniques) and weapons techniques of Jo, Bokken and Tanto for which the Iwama style is well known. Takemusu is a member of the Californian Aikido Association under the renowned Pat Hendricks Sensei 6th Dan. All Dan grades achieved are Internationally recognised by the International Aikido Federation and importantly by The Doshu (World leader of Aikido), Aikikai Hombu, Tokyo, Japan.

Masakatsu is also affiliated with the Institute of Aikido. The institute is headed by Haydn Foster Sensei. The system taught by the IOA is a traditional Aikido, with Iwama style weapons incorporated. Sensei started his Aikido with the late Abbe Sensei in the 1950’s and has developed his Aikido through years of study with the most renounced Sensei in Europe. Dan grades are available with the IOA.

We are also pleased to be associated with the Osakan Aikikai and our senior students and Sensei, regularly practice, with this experienced, Aikikai Hombu recognised association.