Origins of Aikido
Aikido was created by Morihei Ueshiba (O’Sensei) around 1925, drawing from Daitō-ryū Aikijujutsu and inspired by his spiritual study in the Shinto-based Omoto-Kyo movement. His goal was to develop a martial art based not on strength or aggression, but on harmony, compassion, and universal connection.
The development of Ki Aikido
Koichi Tohei Sensei, O’Sensei’s most senior student and one of only two to receive a 10th Dan, dedicated himself to understanding how mind and body could be unified in practice. He studied Shinshin Toitsudo (“The Way of Unifying Mind and Body”) under Nakamura Tempu, blending these teachings with Aikido principles. This fusion became known as Shinshin Toitsu Aikido, or simply Ki Aikido.
Ki Aikido in the UK
The Shin Shin Aikido Association continues this lineage under Sensei Peter Hughes (8th Dan). With over five decades of experience, Sensei Hughes has guided the growth of Ki Aikido throughout the UK, maintaining the original spirit of non-competition, harmony, and Ki development.