The Aikikai Foundation

Founded in 1948 for spreading the teachings of the Founder throughout the world, the Aikikai Foundation, with its headquarters at the Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, is the guiding body of orthodox Aikido. It is represented in more than fifty countries. The Director of the foundation is Moriteru Ueshiba, the grandson of the founder. He is referred to as Doshu (Master of the Way).

 

 

The British Aikido Federation

In 1968, the Aikikai of Great Britain was founded under the direction of Kazuo Chiba Shihan who had been assigned to Britain by the Aikikai Foundation, Tokyo, with the responsibility of developing Aikido in this country.  In 1976 (until 2019) Minoru Kanetsuka Shihan became the Technical Director of the organisation which had been renamed the British Aikido Federation.  With its student wing, the British Universities Aikido Federation, the BAF is composed of affiliated clubs or dojos from all over England and Wales (in 1978 the Scottish clubs previously affiliated to the BAF formed an independent Scottish Aikido Federation which maintains the closest links with the BAF). It is one of a very small number of associations in England and Wales with 'Full Recognition' from the Aikido World Quarters (the Hombu Dojo, Tokyo) and membership of the International and European Aikido Federations.

 

The British Aikido Federation remains closely linked with Aikido World Headquarters.  All dan grades (black belt holders) within the BAF are recognised by the Hombu Dojo and registered with the Intentional Aikido Federation and receive certificates issued by the Head of the World Aikido Movement, the Doshu Moriteru Ueshiba.

 

The structure of the BAF Teaching Syllabus is closely based on that of the Hombu Dojo and not only proficiency of technique but also the correctness of manner and attitude is greatly emphasised.  Many national courses are held each year at local centres all over the UK.  Two major national courses, the Spring Course and the week-long Chester Summer School attract many Aikido students from abroad too.

 

Joint Aikido Council

All members of the BAF enjoy the benefits of both Public Liability Insurance and Personal Accident Insurance, and all BAF Instructors have Professional Indemnity Insurance and basic first aid qualifications. The BAF is a member of the Joint Aikido Council.  The JAC is an umbrella organisation that represents, in the UK, all seven groups that are recognised, affiliated to and supported by the Aikikai Foundation (Hombu Dojo) the World headquarters of Ueshiba Aikido.

 

Thanks to its wide international connections the BAF stands very much in the mainstream of Aikido development, and by virtue of its close ties with the Hombu Dojo, it maintains a wholly orthodox direction in its teaching and development.