Our Journey So Far
We started the club in May 2013 with the main aim to ensure that everyone is always welcome to join and train with us in a friendly environment.
Since then, we've had people of all ages training with us. We've also had guest instructors coming to teach from all over the country and different associations, including UK Aikikai (UKA), British Aikikai (BA), British Birankai (BB) and British Aikido Federation (BAF).
Leicester Aikikai ( レスター 合気会 ) holds a full membership affiliation to United Kingdom Aikikai (UKA) which is part of the Joint Aikikai Council (JAC); all our kyu grades are recognised nationally and the dan grades internationally.
We teach traditional aikido (aikikai).
Chief Instructor
Antonios Pavlakis
4th Dan • Yondan so-Hombu Fukushidoin (副指導員)
Antonios (aka Antonis) holds a fourth degree black belt (yondan so-Hombu Fukushidoin 副指導員) and serves as the chief instructor and founder of Leicester Aikikai dojo.
Training Background: His aikido journey began in 1997 at De Montfort University Aikido Club under the guidance of Dave Lenton sensei (4th dan), where he developed a strong foundation in traditional Aikido principles.
Teaching Career: After receiving his teaching qualifications (Coaching Level 1) in 2009, Antonis became an assistant instructor at DMU Aikido Club. In May 2013, he established Leicester Aikikai dojo (レスター 合気道 道場) with a vision to create an inclusive training environment welcoming practitioners of all levels. In 2018, he was awarded the Fukushidoin teaching title, allowing him to grade students up to 1st kyu. In 2023, he successfully passed his Yondan (4th dan) grading examination.
Affiliations: Leicester Aikikai maintains full membership with United Kingdom Aikikai (UKA) and the Joint Aikikai Council (JAC), ensuring all grades meet national and international standards.
Location and Times
Class Times
Fridays at 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Getting here
Car: Use the above address. Free parking at the leisure centre.
Bus: The "Aylestone Leisure Centre" bus stop is just 2 minutes away.
Costs
The initial cost is for the annual membership with the UK Aikikai (UKA) association which also includes insurance.
- Adult (waged) £32.00
- Under 18s* £18.00
For the monthly costs, see below:
Under 18s
£15.00 / month
Adults (waged)
£25.00 / month
Adults (concession)
£20.00 / month
Give it a go.
Come down on a Friday night to give it a go. First class is FREE.
FAQ
GETTING STARTED
Am I fit/flexible enough?
Yes you are! The number one reason people state they will 'come later' is to improve fitness. We work with anyone, at any level of fitness and you can improve fitness and flexibility while learning aikido.
GETTING STARTED
What do I need to get started?
Just come along to one of our classes. The first class is free! Wear some loose fitting exercise clothes (not shorts as you spend time kneeling).
GETTING STARTED
Any other costs?
Aikido is a great value activity, costs are very low and well defined. New members may also like to buy a suit (aikidogi) and aikido weapons (bokken, jo, tanto). We can provide advice and help with all these items.