Fantastic training
What a great night we had on Friday in Herne Bay, with considerable progress being achieved.
Category: Blog
Required reading – George Ledyard @ Aikido Journal
This interview with George Ledyard is well worth a read over at the Aikido Journal website. It is entirely applicable to Daito-ryu, which George mentions a few times with regard to training methodology and skill transmission. The Role of Ukemi in Aikido – Part 1 The Role of Ukemi in…
Herne bay study group tonight
Looking forward to seeing our fantastic group in Herne Bay tonight, to diligent training and to concentrating super hard as always. And no we aren’t at this level (yet).
West Country abound
It was “Study group on tour” shenanigans this weekend.Will and Tom joined me for a weekends Daito-Ryu training in Bristol and Torquay.As is becoming the tradition, Will kindly brought some booze with him which obviously we had to taste in advance.Daughter made some crafty Daito-Ryu gifts to take with us.And…
Love these guys
Another super enjoyable study group session in Herne Bay, with much progress on the eternal journey towards softness being made.
Excellent Study Group Night
An awesome bunch of budoka came together yesterday in Herne Bay for more enjoyable Daito-Ryu endeavours.
Rob’s feedback
Some more Aiki Connections feedback, this time courtesy of Rob Ayre. “The line between Aikido and Daito-Ryu is fast disappearing for me. Everything I want from Aikido exists in Daito-Ryu. The subtle and soft movements with devastating effects are worthy of sincere study. To be unable to move or to…
“It’s up to you…”
Back fresh from my week in the USA, which included the three day Daito-Ryu Ginjukai Honbu Weekend (among other things) on Long Island, New York. I had a fantastic time, and learned so much. It is great to train and benefit from the experience of so many other Ginjukai members.…
Cracking night in Herne Bay
Last night, all eyes were on Herne Bay seafront as our intrepid gang of Daito-Ryu enthusiasts met once again for more action. We were joined for the first time by our friends Lionel, Lisa and Mark from Essex. Fresh from their first experience of Daito-Ryu at Aiki Connections 2019, they…
Some great feedback
Some cracking feedback courtesy of Stu Marshall…. What can I say that hasn’t already been said multiple times with greater eloquence and insight? Not much. It’s all true what people say. Every bit of it. Unless it’s anything other than superlative, in which case it’s an outrageous fabrication. Fake News.…
Pro shots from Aiki Connections 2019
Okamoto Seigo interview part 2
Enjoyable practice session
It was a balmy evening in Herne Bay, as a handful of intrepid Daito-ryu advocates studied into the night.. Everyone is really looking forward to next weekend. Bring it on!
The inevitable….
Cracking evening
What a fantastic evenings practice. It was great to see Trev, and a warm welcome to new study group member Daz.
Don’t forget your T-shirt
Calling all Aiki Connections participants! Make sure you get your orders in for this year’s ultra limited edition run t-shirt design. Look at these beauts, absolutely loving their 2018 shirts. Don’t miss your chance to be an absolute legend. This year’s design, again Hokusai Katsushika inspired, features mount Fuji and…
Aiki age fun
Aiki Connections 2019 – Two months to go “Update”
As we pass the “two months to go” point until Aiki Connections 2019, we just want to thank everyone who has so far booked onto the weekend. This year looks like it is going to be very well turned out. We can’t wait to see everyone, and we know it’s…
Ueshiba Morihei (December 14, 1883 – April 26, 1969)
Teacher of Daito-Ryu Aiki-jujutsu and Aikido Founder Ueshiba Morihei (December 14, 1883 – April 26, 1969) Today is the 50th anniversary of his passing.
Balance deadline reminder
Not long now! To all those who put down a deposit for Aiki Connections weekend, 1st May 2019 is the deadline to pay the remainder of your balance.
Herne Bay Massive
A lovely evenings training in Herne Bay last night. Thanks to all who attended, and for the great work.
Pictorial Daito-ryu Ginjukai Lineage
Pictorial lineage of the Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu Ginjukai Takeda Sōkaku, the founder of Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu (October 10, 1859 – April 25, 1943) Takeda Sōkaku (middle) and his student Kodo Horikawa (right). Kōdō Horikawa (1894–1980) Kōdō Horikawa (second from left) seated with Shioda Gōzō (third from left). Kōdō Horikawa (middle) training with…
Articles for Archive purposes
Daito Ryu Article for BAA Shizentai Magazine Daito Ryu article in BAB Aikido Times Magazine Howard Popkin Interview part 1 in BAA Shizentai Magazine Howard Popkin Interview part 2 in BAA Shizentai Magazine Aiki Connections 2017 advert in BAB Aikido Times Magazine
2016 Interview with Howard Popkin
Howard, you and Joe Brogna operate the Daito Ryu Ginjukai in New York. For those who don’t know what it is, please could you tell us about Daito Ryu? Daitoryu Aikijujutsu was brought to the public eye a few generations ago by Takeda Sokaku. The son of a Samurai, Sokaku…
Aiki Connections 2019 – Book now.
July will see our 6th annual Aiki Connections weekend with Howard Popkin and Joe Brogna. As anyone who has participated before will tell you, it’s a fantastic weekend full of laughter and a rare opportunity to sample and try for yourself, some amazing authentic Daito-Ryu Aiki-jujutsu. Half the places for…
Study Group “On Tour” dates
We are pleased to announce the following Daito-Ryu Study Group sessions in Bristol and Torquay during mid February. Following the successful visit in 2018, we return to Bristol on Saturday 23rd March at Bristol South Aikido Dojo, Fortfield Road Bristol, BS14 9NX. On Sunday 24th March, we are at St…
Tickets already half sold
We have already sold half of the tickets to next year’s Aiki Connections weekend. If you intend to participate but have yet to secure your ticket, I would advise you to act now. Read testimonials from previous attendees here. Understanding that stumping up the necessary consideration this close to Christmas…
Discounted Aiki Connections 2018 T-shirts
We have a few remaining T-Shirts from Aiki Connections 2018. If you would like one, we are offering them for £12 each plus £3 postage. Book your Aiki Connections 2019 weekend ticket now Order the last remaining event t-shirts for £12 (plus £3 postage) below via PayPal. Where to? Posted…
Study Group hits Bristol
The classic training error of taking the group shot at the end when 5 people had already left. I just got back to Kent after a long drive back from Bristol (4 hours is always an eternity with my kids in the car). On Saturday, we held a 6hr “Study…
Early bird discount ends
The 1st September is upon us. This means the early bird discount for Aiki Connections comes to a close. We have added the facility to pay a deposit in order to secure a limited space without paying the full £120 in one go. Book your Aiki Connections 2019 ticket now
Book early and save £20
On 1st September 2018, the ticket price for Aiki Connections 2019 will go up to £120. If you want to save £20, book early and in turn help us greatly with the organisation of the event. Visit our event page to book your place now
Free gift…
Horikawa Kodo
Some fantastic photos of Horikawa Kodo, Okamoto Sensei’s teacher. Our thanks to Ole Kingston of Daito Ryu Enryukai. A Young Kodo Taiso Horikawa, Sokaku Takeda, Kodo Horikawa. The famous photo of Kodo with a young Gozo Shioda.
Required viewing : Horikawa Kodo
Next in our series of “Required Viewing”, is this video of Horikawa Kodo’s remarkable soft skill. This will be very familiar to those who have trained with Popkin Sensei and Brogna Sensei. Enjoy.
Study Group session in Cornwall
Whilst on holiday in Cornwall, I visited fellow Ginjukai member Dave Remnant. Dave kindly showed me around his land and property before we took to his home dojo. Converted from a former stable, this fantastic facility was the setting for an evening of Daito-ryu, beer and pizza. My thanks to…
Latest feedback
Some nice feedback from John Shields… I have been practising the art of Aikido for the last 30 years, and have had the good fortune to have trained with various Sensei and Shihan from both Europe and Japan. On meeting Sensei’s Popkin and Brogna, I was amazed at their technical…
Seminar Feedback just in…
Aiki Connections seminar feedback just in courtesy of Phil Glover….. Tl;dr: It was good, join us next time. So, it’s been a couple of weeks since the 2018 Aiki Connections Seminar and I’ve been using the time to try and organise my thoughts to offer some feedback. Before we start, a bit…
Aiki Connections 2019
Great news. Howard and Joe will return to the UK in 2019, on the weekend of July 13 & 14. You can pre-book your place now. Aiki Connections 2019
Another review
New review received, this time courtesy of Mr Mark Jenner…. Another great Daito Ryu weekend in Dover with the Aiki connections crowd, four years now and it’s not yet failed to deliver! This is much more than just another martial arts seminar, enlightening, thought provoking, and frustratingly minimalist, it’s all…
New Aiki Connections review
Our thanks to Simon Thackeray for this feedback… An enlightening and enjoyable weekend with knowledgeable, skillful teachers who were keen for everyone to get what it is they’re teaching and make time for everyone there. Some six hours a day of training time could have been heavy going, but it…
Great testimonial
Aikido folk often pay lip-service to the fact that their art derives from Daito-ryu, but not many get the chance to actually train in aikido’s parent art. I was fortunate enough to be able to share a mat with Howard Popkin and Joe Brogna at the Aiki Connections seminar recently,…
Post weekend thoughts
Thank you to everyone who attended the weekend. It was lovely to see so many old friends and to start so many new friendships. It was an absolute pleasure to train with you all. I always derive huge enjoyment in seeing the surprise/shock on people’s faces when they grab Howie…
Less than 3 weeks to go…
As we count the days, minutes and seconds until Aiki Connections 2018 with Popkin Sensei and Brogna Sensei, we look back at some fun memories…..
Aiki Connections Single Day tickets
As we reach the “one month to go” mark before the Aiki Connections weekend with Howard Popkin and Joe Brogna, we are very pleased that so many have booked up to attend. We understand that there are some who are unable to make the whole weekend, so to help with…
Assumptions, courtesy of Peter Boylan
An excerpt from an old post on Peter Boylan’s (the Budo Bum) blog…. “Getting out to a seminar or two in another art can broaden your perspective on situations the arts you study are intended to deal with. Every art has a frame through which it interprets the world. It’s…
Aiki Connections 2018, not long now!
As we reach the four weeks to go to point, there’s good news for those who booked their place early. The complimentary event t-shirts are ready and will be available at the Aiki Connections weekend. Those who missed the free event t-shirt offer can still order one here Aiki Connections…
Required viewing
This classic video from the late Stanley Pranin is required viewing for anyone interested in Daito-ryu or Aikido.
Epic training day
We had a fantastic days training on May Bank holiday Saturday. The beautiful weather set the scene for an intensive seven hour training session. Participants came from as far afield as Cornwall, from London, and from the local area of course. I want to thank the Cornish contingent for travelling…
Aiki Connections 2018
As we get closer to Aiki Connections 2018, if you are planning to attend, please book your ticket via the event page here http://www.daitoryu.co.uk/aiki-connections-2018/ Event T-shirts can also be ordered for delivery or pick-up at the Aiki Connections event. http://www.daitoryu.co.uk/aiki-connections-2018/aiki-connections-t-shirt/
Aiki Connections T-Shirt offer
The first 15 bookers onto Aiki Connections 2018 will get a free event T-shirt. For more details visit the offer page
Required reading – George Ledyard @ Aikido Journal
This interview with George Ledyard is well worth a read over at the Aikido Journal website. It is entirely applicable to Daito-ryu, which George mentions a few times with regard to training methodology and skill transmission. The Role of Ukemi in Aikido – Part 1 The Role of Ukemi in…
Herne bay study group tonight
Looking forward to seeing our fantastic group in Herne Bay tonight, to diligent training and to concentrating super hard as always. And no we aren’t at this level (yet).
West Country abound
It was “Study group on tour” shenanigans this weekend.Will and Tom joined me for a weekends Daito-Ryu training in Bristol and Torquay.As is becoming the tradition, Will kindly brought some booze with him which obviously we had to taste in advance.Daughter made some crafty Daito-Ryu gifts to take with us.And…
Love these guys
Another super enjoyable study group session in Herne Bay, with much progress on the eternal journey towards softness being made.
Excellent Study Group Night
An awesome bunch of budoka came together yesterday in Herne Bay for more enjoyable Daito-Ryu endeavours.
Rob’s feedback
Some more Aiki Connections feedback, this time courtesy of Rob Ayre. “The line between Aikido and Daito-Ryu is fast disappearing for me. Everything I want from Aikido exists in Daito-Ryu. The subtle and soft movements with devastating effects are worthy of sincere study. To be unable to move or to…
“It’s up to you…”
Back fresh from my week in the USA, which included the three day Daito-Ryu Ginjukai Honbu Weekend (among other things) on Long Island, New York. I had a fantastic time, and learned so much. It is great to train and benefit from the experience of so many other Ginjukai members.…
Cracking night in Herne Bay
Last night, all eyes were on Herne Bay seafront as our intrepid gang of Daito-Ryu enthusiasts met once again for more action. We were joined for the first time by our friends Lionel, Lisa and Mark from Essex. Fresh from their first experience of Daito-Ryu at Aiki Connections 2019, they…
Some great feedback
Some cracking feedback courtesy of Stu Marshall…. What can I say that hasn’t already been said multiple times with greater eloquence and insight? Not much. It’s all true what people say. Every bit of it. Unless it’s anything other than superlative, in which case it’s an outrageous fabrication. Fake News.…
Pro shots from Aiki Connections 2019
Okamoto Seigo interview part 2
Enjoyable practice session
It was a balmy evening in Herne Bay, as a handful of intrepid Daito-ryu advocates studied into the night.. Everyone is really looking forward to next weekend. Bring it on!
The inevitable….
Cracking evening
What a fantastic evenings practice. It was great to see Trev, and a warm welcome to new study group member Daz.
Don’t forget your T-shirt
Calling all Aiki Connections participants! Make sure you get your orders in for this year’s ultra limited edition run t-shirt design. Look at these beauts, absolutely loving their 2018 shirts. Don’t miss your chance to be an absolute legend. This year’s design, again Hokusai Katsushika inspired, features mount Fuji and…
Aiki age fun
Aiki Connections 2019 – Two months to go “Update”
As we pass the “two months to go” point until Aiki Connections 2019, we just want to thank everyone who has so far booked onto the weekend. This year looks like it is going to be very well turned out. We can’t wait to see everyone, and we know it’s…
Ueshiba Morihei (December 14, 1883 – April 26, 1969)
Teacher of Daito-Ryu Aiki-jujutsu and Aikido Founder Ueshiba Morihei (December 14, 1883 – April 26, 1969) Today is the 50th anniversary of his passing.
Balance deadline reminder
Not long now! To all those who put down a deposit for Aiki Connections weekend, 1st May 2019 is the deadline to pay the remainder of your balance.
Herne Bay Massive
A lovely evenings training in Herne Bay last night. Thanks to all who attended, and for the great work.
Pictorial Daito-ryu Ginjukai Lineage
Pictorial lineage of the Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu Ginjukai Takeda Sōkaku, the founder of Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu (October 10, 1859 – April 25, 1943) Takeda Sōkaku (middle) and his student Kodo Horikawa (right). Kōdō Horikawa (1894–1980) Kōdō Horikawa (second from left) seated with Shioda Gōzō (third from left). Kōdō Horikawa (middle) training with…
Articles for Archive purposes
Daito Ryu Article for BAA Shizentai Magazine Daito Ryu article in BAB Aikido Times Magazine Howard Popkin Interview part 1 in BAA Shizentai Magazine Howard Popkin Interview part 2 in BAA Shizentai Magazine Aiki Connections 2017 advert in BAB Aikido Times Magazine
2016 Interview with Howard Popkin
Howard, you and Joe Brogna operate the Daito Ryu Ginjukai in New York. For those who don’t know what it is, please could you tell us about Daito Ryu? Daitoryu Aikijujutsu was brought to the public eye a few generations ago by Takeda Sokaku. The son of a Samurai, Sokaku…
Aiki Connections 2019 – Book now.
July will see our 6th annual Aiki Connections weekend with Howard Popkin and Joe Brogna. As anyone who has participated before will tell you, it’s a fantastic weekend full of laughter and a rare opportunity to sample and try for yourself, some amazing authentic Daito-Ryu Aiki-jujutsu. Half the places for…
Study Group “On Tour” dates
We are pleased to announce the following Daito-Ryu Study Group sessions in Bristol and Torquay during mid February. Following the successful visit in 2018, we return to Bristol on Saturday 23rd March at Bristol South Aikido Dojo, Fortfield Road Bristol, BS14 9NX. On Sunday 24th March, we are at St…
Tickets already half sold
We have already sold half of the tickets to next year’s Aiki Connections weekend. If you intend to participate but have yet to secure your ticket, I would advise you to act now. Read testimonials from previous attendees here. Understanding that stumping up the necessary consideration this close to Christmas…
Discounted Aiki Connections 2018 T-shirts
We have a few remaining T-Shirts from Aiki Connections 2018. If you would like one, we are offering them for £12 each plus £3 postage. Book your Aiki Connections 2019 weekend ticket now Order the last remaining event t-shirts for £12 (plus £3 postage) below via PayPal. Where to? Posted…
Study Group hits Bristol
The classic training error of taking the group shot at the end when 5 people had already left. I just got back to Kent after a long drive back from Bristol (4 hours is always an eternity with my kids in the car). On Saturday, we held a 6hr “Study…
Early bird discount ends
The 1st September is upon us. This means the early bird discount for Aiki Connections comes to a close. We have added the facility to pay a deposit in order to secure a limited space without paying the full £120 in one go. Book your Aiki Connections 2019 ticket now
Book early and save £20
On 1st September 2018, the ticket price for Aiki Connections 2019 will go up to £120. If you want to save £20, book early and in turn help us greatly with the organisation of the event. Visit our event page to book your place now
Free gift…
Horikawa Kodo
Some fantastic photos of Horikawa Kodo, Okamoto Sensei’s teacher. Our thanks to Ole Kingston of Daito Ryu Enryukai. A Young Kodo Taiso Horikawa, Sokaku Takeda, Kodo Horikawa. The famous photo of Kodo with a young Gozo Shioda.
Required viewing : Horikawa Kodo
Next in our series of “Required Viewing”, is this video of Horikawa Kodo’s remarkable soft skill. This will be very familiar to those who have trained with Popkin Sensei and Brogna Sensei. Enjoy.
Study Group session in Cornwall
Whilst on holiday in Cornwall, I visited fellow Ginjukai member Dave Remnant. Dave kindly showed me around his land and property before we took to his home dojo. Converted from a former stable, this fantastic facility was the setting for an evening of Daito-ryu, beer and pizza. My thanks to…
Latest feedback
Some nice feedback from John Shields… I have been practising the art of Aikido for the last 30 years, and have had the good fortune to have trained with various Sensei and Shihan from both Europe and Japan. On meeting Sensei’s Popkin and Brogna, I was amazed at their technical…
Seminar Feedback just in…
Aiki Connections seminar feedback just in courtesy of Phil Glover….. Tl;dr: It was good, join us next time. So, it’s been a couple of weeks since the 2018 Aiki Connections Seminar and I’ve been using the time to try and organise my thoughts to offer some feedback. Before we start, a bit…
Aiki Connections 2019
Great news. Howard and Joe will return to the UK in 2019, on the weekend of July 13 & 14. You can pre-book your place now. Aiki Connections 2019
Another review
New review received, this time courtesy of Mr Mark Jenner…. Another great Daito Ryu weekend in Dover with the Aiki connections crowd, four years now and it’s not yet failed to deliver! This is much more than just another martial arts seminar, enlightening, thought provoking, and frustratingly minimalist, it’s all…
New Aiki Connections review
Our thanks to Simon Thackeray for this feedback… An enlightening and enjoyable weekend with knowledgeable, skillful teachers who were keen for everyone to get what it is they’re teaching and make time for everyone there. Some six hours a day of training time could have been heavy going, but it…
Great testimonial
Aikido folk often pay lip-service to the fact that their art derives from Daito-ryu, but not many get the chance to actually train in aikido’s parent art. I was fortunate enough to be able to share a mat with Howard Popkin and Joe Brogna at the Aiki Connections seminar recently,…
Post weekend thoughts
Thank you to everyone who attended the weekend. It was lovely to see so many old friends and to start so many new friendships. It was an absolute pleasure to train with you all. I always derive huge enjoyment in seeing the surprise/shock on people’s faces when they grab Howie…
Less than 3 weeks to go…
As we count the days, minutes and seconds until Aiki Connections 2018 with Popkin Sensei and Brogna Sensei, we look back at some fun memories…..
Aiki Connections Single Day tickets
As we reach the “one month to go” mark before the Aiki Connections weekend with Howard Popkin and Joe Brogna, we are very pleased that so many have booked up to attend. We understand that there are some who are unable to make the whole weekend, so to help with…
Assumptions, courtesy of Peter Boylan
An excerpt from an old post on Peter Boylan’s (the Budo Bum) blog…. “Getting out to a seminar or two in another art can broaden your perspective on situations the arts you study are intended to deal with. Every art has a frame through which it interprets the world. It’s…
Aiki Connections 2018, not long now!
As we reach the four weeks to go to point, there’s good news for those who booked their place early. The complimentary event t-shirts are ready and will be available at the Aiki Connections weekend. Those who missed the free event t-shirt offer can still order one here Aiki Connections…
Required viewing
This classic video from the late Stanley Pranin is required viewing for anyone interested in Daito-ryu or Aikido.
Epic training day
We had a fantastic days training on May Bank holiday Saturday. The beautiful weather set the scene for an intensive seven hour training session. Participants came from as far afield as Cornwall, from London, and from the local area of course. I want to thank the Cornish contingent for travelling…
Aiki Connections 2018
As we get closer to Aiki Connections 2018, if you are planning to attend, please book your ticket via the event page here http://www.daitoryu.co.uk/aiki-connections-2018/ Event T-shirts can also be ordered for delivery or pick-up at the Aiki Connections event. http://www.daitoryu.co.uk/aiki-connections-2018/aiki-connections-t-shirt/
Aiki Connections T-Shirt offer
The first 15 bookers onto Aiki Connections 2018 will get a free event T-shirt. For more details visit the offer page