Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Martial Arts Training in Portsmouth & Fareham
Established in 1968, Aikido-Ken Shin Kai is a non-profit martial arts association dedicated to teaching Aikido in Portsmouth and Fareham. Our instructors, all DBS-checked and holding international qualifications, bring decades of experience to classes tailored for all ages and fitness levels. We prioritise personal development through traditional self-defence techniques, fitness drills, and character-building principles like discipline and respect.With optional gradings and no mandatory fees, we focus on empowering students through accessible, high-quality martial arts training. Our team includes senior instructors with 20+ years' experience, first aid qualifications, and specialist certifications in youth safeguarding. Traditional weapons training and family discounts further enhance our community-focused approach.
Services
Aikido Classes
Junior Martial Arts
Adult Martial Arts
Traditional Weapons Training
Self-Defence Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1968
Highlights and features
- Non-profit association with unpaid volunteer instructors
- Instructors have minimum 10 years' experience
- DBS-checked staff and youth safeguarding policies
- No mandatory gradings or branded uniforms
- Family discounts for multiple junior members
Associations and certifications
- DBS Checked
- Aikido Alliance UK
- British Association of Bud
Services
Aikido Classes
Traditional Japanese Aikido training for all ages and fitness levels. Focuses on self-defence techniques, joint locks, and throws derived from samurai swordsmanship. Classes improve physical coordination, mental discipline, and conflict resolution skills through structured partner practice.
Junior Martial Arts
Specialist classes for ages 7+ (6+ trial available) combining martial arts games with technical training. Develops physical fitness, confidence, and respect through age-appropriate drills, balance exercises, and Japanese language elements while maintaining strict child protection standards.
Traditional Weapons Training
Advanced instruction in classical Japanese weaponry including tanto (dagger), bokken (wooden sword), and jo (short staff). Monthly sessions teach historical techniques and movement patterns that enhance understanding of empty-hand Aikido principles through weapon-based applications.
Self-Defence Workshops
Practical self-defence programs focusing on real-world scenarios. Teaches de-escalation strategies, safe falling methods, and defensive responses against grabs and strikes. Emphasises awareness and non-violent conflict resolution aligned with traditional martial arts philosophy.
People
Garry Masters
Principal Coach / Chairman
8th Dan Yoshinkan instructor with 45+ years' experience. Specialises in technical precision and youth development. Holds BAB Level 3 coaching and safeguarding qualifications. Leads national grading panels and instructor training programs.
Richard Lewis
Chief Instructor
6th Dan Yoshinkan expert with 60+ years' martial arts experience. Technical director responsible for curriculum development. Qualified BAB coach and child protection officer. Specialises in adapting training for different age groups.
Dee Masters
Senior Instructor
4th Dan Yoshinkan instructor with specialist qualifications in child welfare and youth engagement. Coordinates junior programs and ensures compliance with national safeguarding standards across all training locations.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialise in Yoshinkan Aikido, a traditional Japanese martial art focusing on precise techniques derived from samurai swordsmanship.
Are there age requirements for classes?
Juniors start at age 7 (6+ with trial), adults welcome from 16+. Mixed ability classes accommodate all experience levels.
Do you offer family discounts?
Yes, we provide discounts for multiple junior members from the same household to support family participation.
What should I wear for my first class?
Beginners can train in loose clothing. We provide traditional uniforms for purchase once you decide to continue training.
Are gradings mandatory?
No, gradings are optional. Students progress at their own pace, testing only when personally ready without pressure to attend frequent assessments.
