AIKIDO YUISHINKAI WALES
History of Aikido
The lineage of Aikido begins with Morihei Ueshiba (1883–1969), a martial genius who synthesized his mastery of Daito-ryu Aikijujutsu with deep spiritual insights. In the aftermath of World War II, O-Sensei reimagined the martial arts, transforming a system of combat into a ’Way of Harmony’ (Aikido). His vision was to create a discipline that fostered universal peace and integrated the physical, mental, and spiritual self.
Aikido Yuishinkai & Maruyama Sensei
Master Koretoshi Maruyama founded Aikido Yuishinkai in 2003. Having spent thirteen years as a direct student of Morihei Ueshiba and later serving as the President of the Ki Society, he sought to emphasize the pure spiritual essence of Aikido—the ’Way of Harmony’. His teachings reflect a lifetime of dedicated practice under the Founder himself.
Meaning of Yuishinkai
The name ’Yuishinkai’ carries profound significance: ’Yui’ (only/sole), ’Shin’ (mind/heart), and ’Kai’ (association). It describes an association dedicated to the ’Soul of the Mind,’ reflecting the internal origin of all martial and spiritual power. It reminds us that training begins within the heart of the practitioner.
Founder’s Philosophy
Maruyama Sensei teaches that the ultimate goal of Aikido is benevolence. By unifying mind and body through the cultivation of ’Ki ’, practitioners learn to resolve conflict with calmness and love, fulfilling O-Sensei’s vision. Yuishinkai Wales carries forward this tradition, offering the calm strength necessary to resolve conflicts harmoniously.
Technical Aspects
The school emphasizes complete relaxation, natural movement, and the principle of non-resistance. Techniques do not rely on muscular strength but on the unification of breath and body to blend seamlessly with an attacker’s energy. This softness allows for effective control without inflicting unnecessary harm.
Budo & Tanren
Yuishinkai practice is a form of Budo—a path of self-improvement. Through ’Tanren’ (traditional forging), practitioners refine their character, body, and spirit. This martial discipline is viewed as a crucible, transforming the training hall into a place of profound personal growth and ethical development.
Aikido Yuishinkai in the UK
The UK branch, including our academy in Wales, maintains direct technical links to Master Maruyama. Our dojos provide a supportive environment where the authentic teachings are transmitted with integrity. This international community ensures that Yuishinkai remains a living tradition of healing and transformation across Britain.
Founder’s Motto
I am mind itself.
If I hold positive thoughts in my mind, good things are likely to happen.
Holding negative thoughts in my mind works against my best interests.
Therefore, even if my body suffers physically, my mind remains optimistic.
Even if I encounter obstacles, my mind is never defeated.
Daily I fill my heart with thoughts of joy, gratitude and hope.
I face each new day with a bright and optimistic spirit,
which I express in word and deed.
I have faith in life, and life responds in kind.
Weekly Training Sessions
Adult Aikido Classes
Youth Training Program
Technical Weapons
Advanced Aikido
Study the traditional art of harmony through weekly practice. Focus on fundamental movements, breath power, and structural alignment for
all skill levels.
Building confidence and respect through martial discipline. Our youth sessions emphasize physical coordination and the cooperative nature of Yuishinkai Aikido.
Mastery of the Aiki weapon system, including Jo and Bokken. These sessions explore the historical roots of Aikido and polish the student's sense of timing and distance.
High-level training for Yudansha (Black Belts). Direct affiliation with the Yuishinkai Dojo Japan ensures the highest technical standards of transmission.
25+ YEARS EXPERIENCE
Rooted in the authentic traditions of Aikido Yuishinkai, our academy serves as a bridge between the historical mastery of Japan and modern martial arts training in Wales.
With over a quarter-century of dedicated martial arts progression, we cultivate an environment of disciplined practice, mental clarity, and physical technicality.
Our senior instructors maintain a direct affiliation with the international Yuishinkai Dojo, ensuring that every technique conforms to the highest standards of technical precision and philosophical depth.
VENUE
Aikido Yuishinkai Wales
Pontypridd Dojo
Pantygraigwen Community Center
Pantygraigwen Road
Pontypridd
Our HQ AND UK Dojos
Connect with Aikido Yuishinkai dojos across the UK.
AIKIDO YUISHINKAI INTERNATIONAL
International Headquarters Dojo
Official international Aikido Yuishinkai organisation and central hub for global dojos.
KENDAL
Takagashira Dojo (currently not operating)
Dojo: Kendal Judo Club, Parkside Business Park, Parkside Road, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 7EN
Instructor: Mike Haft
Phone: 07754 699506
LONDON
Renshinkan Dojo – Aikido Yuishinkai London
Dojo: Currently seeking venue to open
Instructor: Mike Haft
Phone: 07754 699506
Note: Opening September 2018
MANCHESTER
Keitenshin Kan Aikido
Dojo: Sugden Sports Centre, 114 Grosvenor Street, Manchester, M1 7HL
Instructors: Jonathan Davies and Sarah Williams
PONTYPRIDD
Aikido Yuishinkai Wales
Dojo: Pantygraigwen Community Centre, Pantygraigwen Road, Pontypridd, South Wales, UK, CF37 2RR
Instructor: Paul Williams
Phone: 0044 (0)7774 003 600
RESOURCES
Grading syllabi, kata, and training materials for Aikido Yuishinkai students in Wales. Download the official documents below to support your practice and test preparation.