Kokyu Aikido Instructors
CHIEF INSTRUCTOR
Sensei Denise Robinson I.I.S.T. Dip
I started Aikido in 1985 when my youngest daughter was 8 months old, as there is a strong Martial Arts background in my family. Both my parents practiced Aikido and both my brothers were practising Karate.
I achieved the rank of Shodan (black belt) in December 1990, my instructor’s certificate in 1994 and in November 1994 I successfully gained the rank of Nidan (2nd degree black belt) with The World and British Federation of Martial Art’s.
In 1996 I qualified as a Sport’s Therapist, I have attended courses covering Health & Safety and attained qualifications in First Aid. I am the named First Aider for the association. These qualifications have been brought to the club for the benefit of all its members. I have worked hard to promote safe training and injury prevention, as well as teaching Aikido to both seniors and juniors. All students train with the comfort of knowing my expertise is available at all times.
I have a special interest in promoting the junior classes and have ensured we have an Association Child Welfare Officer who is registered with N.A.K.M.A.S. I am always willing to welcome new juniors to my class and I am happy to answer any questions concerning the practice by juniors.
Sensei Gareth
It was always my dream to practise a martial art. I was inspired by watching big Hollywood films while growing up as a boy. After trying the more “gentle” forms of martial art to help improve my physical condition, more stimulation was neede
d and I decided to research other martial arts. I had heard of Aikido before and after much research, I felt it was “the one” for me and decided to “have a go” with the KAA.
I have achieved so much with the club over the years but I just feel lucky to be part of such a good organisation that offers me (and still does) much support and encouragement from senior staff and students alike.
Training has helped me in more ways than one. Not just my quality of life, but also with confidence in going out, doing and trying new things as well as meeting new people and making friends. This has also been a strength throughout both my happiest and saddest times in my life.
I was always a loyal, determined, strong willed and upfront person but it was AIKIDO that helped bring me “out of my shell”. It has also made me a more passionate person. I would urge anyone to “have a go” as if you work hard you never know how your life will change.
Sensei Linda
I started my study of Aikido with the KAA in 1992 at the age of 30+. I had never trained in a martial art before but was attracted to the idea of self defence and defending my young children in a world where we often feel vulnerable.
After achieving my 3rd Kyu I began to realise that Aikido was more than just physical training but also developed confidence, awareness and posture - as well as an insight into the Japanese samurai culture. Physical strength could be controlled and countered by good technique regardless of your size and stature.
After obtaining my Shodan black belt in 1997, I spent several years training with other organisations, recognising the range of styles and teaching practises that are available within the style of Aikido.
I returned to the KAA in 2004 and with further training attained Nidan (2nd dan) black belt. I now enjoy teaching and coaching other students from new beginners to supporting those aiming for black belts but also continue to develop my own Aikido, in particular studying new weapons kata.
Aikido is truly a dynamic martial art.
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