Aiki Budo Centre - London Ontario 合気道養神館

About Aiki Budo Centre - London Ontario 合気道養神館

Aiki Budo Centre is a martial arts school located in the Carling Heights neighbourhood on Elizabeth St, serving the London, Ontario community. The centre offers Aikido, a Japanese martial art described by the school as "moving zen" that focuses on blending, redirection, and the de-escalation of violence. The club provides dedicated programs for both adults and children ages six and up. The adult program emphasizes relaxation, flexibility, and endurance with less focus on strength training, while the children’s program is designed to build physical literacy, coordination, discipline, and self-defense skills against bullying. Students can also train in various weapons programs, which include the study of the tanto (wooden knife), bokken (wooden sword), and jo (wooden staff). These programs are intended to improve the understanding of hand techniques by exploring the principles of attack, grip, evasion, and control. The school provides a structured environment where licensed and certified instructors guide participants through a precise Yoshinkan Aikido curriculum. Founded in 1995, the centre began as an after-school program before becoming a community club in 1996. It was established by Jaimie Sheppard Shihan, who serves as the Dojocho and head instructor. The school has a long legacy of training under various mentors and continues to receive guidance from senior Seiseikai instructors. The centre is known for its community involvement, featuring member committees that organize social events like summer BBQs and holiday parties, as well as a program for recycling uniforms and belts. Visitors and guests are welcome to watch a class at no mat fee.