Aikido Workshop with Aikido Gyodokan

Discover Your Strength, Discover Aikido

What is Aikido?

Aikido is a dynamic and non-competitive traditional Japanese martial art that focuses on blending with an opponent’s movements rather than opposing them, with techniques and attacks heavily linked with the sword. Open to all ages, sizes, and genders, Aikido teaches graceful yet effective techniques that emphasise balance, control, and harmony. 

Two Workshops Available!

This year, we’re offering two exciting Aikido classes tailored to different age groups: 

  1. Adults Class (18+) – Open to beginners and martial arts enthusiasts alike. 
  2. Kids Class (10-17) – A fun, engaging session designed specifically for young learners, held only on Sunday morning. 

Adult Aikido Workshop (18+)

What to Expect in the Workshop

Join us for an interactive Aikido experience, perfect for beginners and martial arts enthusiasts alike! The session will include: 

  • Live Demonstration – Watch Aikido in action, featuring body arts and weapons techniques performed by practitioners from beginner to advanced levels. 
  • Learn to Fall Safely – One of the first skills in Aikido is how to land safely when thrown—an essential foundation for practice. 
  • Basic Movements (Tai Sabaki & Te Sabaki) – Discover fundamental footwork and hand movements that form the core of Aikido techniques. 
  • Hands-On Practice – Put it all together in pairs or small groups to apply and receive techniques in a supportive and controlled environment. 
  • Q&A Session – Ask the Gyodokan instructors anything about Aikido, from philosophy to practice! 

Kids Aikido Workshop (10-17) – Sunday Morning Only

Why Aikido is Great for Young People

Aikido isn’t just about self-defense—it’s about building confidence, focus, and coordination. It’s perfect for kids who want to move faster, feel stronger, and stay calm under pressure. Plus, learning how to fall safely is a great skill for sports, parkour, and everyday activities! 

What’s in the Workshop?

  • Live Demo – See exciting Aikido moves performed by experienced practitioners. 
  • Learn to Fall Like a Pro – Master rolling and landing techniques safely. 
  • Try Out Basic Moves – Get hands-on with essential Aikido techniques. 
  • Practice with a Partner – Apply what you’ve learned in a controlled, safe environment. 
  • Ask Anything! – Chat with expert instructors about Aikido and its philosophy. 

For Parents & Guardians:

By purchasing a ticket, you confirm that your child has no known health conditions or injuries that could pose a risk. If unsure, please consult a medical professional before the session. 

For safety reasons, instructors may ask participants to sit out if they believe they cannot take part safely. 

What to Wear:

To fully enjoy the session, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing like jogging bottoms or leggings that cover the knees—and also so you don’t risk damaging your cosplay! 

Come and experience the art of harmony, movement, and self-defense in this unique Aikido workshop. 

Health & Safety:

By purchasing a ticket, you confirm that you (or the participant) have no known health conditions or injuries that could pose a risk during training. If you have any concerns, please consult a medical professional before participating. 

For the safety of all participants, we reserve the right to turn away anyone on the day if we believe they are unable to take part safely. 

Schedule:

18th Friday:  Aikido (Adults) Friday 113:45-14:45
Aikido (Adults) Friday 215:00-16:00
19th Saturday: Aikido (Adults) Saturday 115:45-16:45
Aikido (Adults) Saturday 217:00-18:00 
20th Sunday:  Aikido (Kids) Sunday 1 SOLD OUT10:30-11:30 
Aikido (Adults) Sunday 211:45-12:45

Special Notes:

* Kids workshop runs only on Sunday morning. (10-17 years old) 
* You will need a separate HYPER JAPAN Festival 2025 ticket for the same date.

Aikido Gyodokan

Aikido Gyodokan is a dojo based in Ealing, London, founded in 2023 by husband and wife duo, Ivan Melo and Cathy Okada. A sister dojo to Aikido of London in Archway, Gyodokan offers regular classes in Aikido, weapons training, Iaido, and Zazen. 

About the Instructors

Ivan Melo: Head Teacher - Instagram
Ivan sensei has over three decades of martial arts experience and began his Aikido journey in Brazil in 1997. He teaches the regular Aikido and Weapons classes as well as private Iaido tuition.

Cathy Okada: Senior Instructor  - Instagram
Cathy sensei teaches the regular Aikido and Weapons classes at Gyodokan and leads the Junior Teacher Training Program. She is also the co-creator of Maai Perspective: Women Talk Budo, a video podcast exploring martial arts from a female perspective.

The dojo is dedicated to developing both the physical and mental abilities of its students, instilling confidence, discipline, and personal growth through the practice of Aikido.