Edinburgh Ki Aikido Club » Scotland

Friendly club located in the heart of Leith. Taught by Sensei Docherty (5th Dan), classes are twice weekly, suitable for all levels, and can be practiced equally by people of any size, age, or ability. Message us at any of the contacts on this page if you want to learn more or pay us a visit. You can also stop by and say hello anytime!

The club

We train twice a week, on Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons, as well as a Juniors class on Wednesday evenings. The classes are beginner-friendly and open to every person, no matter their physical capabilities. Everyone practices at their own pace in a stress-free environment, with no judgment and helpful classmates. We were all beginners once, and we all remember how daunting it can be to start something new in an unknown environment.

The classes are 90 minutes each, which can be intense, but all practitioners are encouraged to take breaks when required and not to push themselves beyond their capabilities. The training should be fun, energising, and rewarding!

The teacher

Sensei Docherty began his studies as a Junior at the Stewartfield club in his hometown of East Kilbride, back in 1999, under Sensei McClure and Sensei Wands. Continuing all through primary and high school, Sensei Docherty achieved First Dan just 10 days prior to his 17th Birthday. Later, under Sensei Phillipson, he was made the assistant at Stewartfield and helped to run the juniors club while attending university.

After university, Sensei Docherty landed a job in Edinburgh and made the permanent move in early 2016. Deciding to use the opportunity to begin his own club, he opened the Edinburgh dojo in the summer of 2016 and has been teaching in the nation’s capital ever since.

Getting to the Dojo

There is parking available at the gym, though it is limited and, if the gym is busy, there are times when street parking is the only option. With members across Edinburgh, we always encourage car-pooling where possible.

Bus number 11 is the best option using public transport. It travels through the city centre, and the Graham Street stop is only a few short minutes away from the gym. Otherwise, any bus that travels down Leith Street will get you within walking distance of about 10- 15 minutes.

Attending class

We invite students to arrive around 15 minutes before the lesson so everyone can assist in setting the mats and getting the hall ready for practice. If you’re late, come to the side of the mat and wait to be invited on.

Whether you wear soft, comfortable clothing (in the first few weeks) or the full aikido kit, please ensure that it is clean and fresh.

Wear flip-flops or slippers to and from the mat. We practice barefoot, and keep the mat clean by wearing footwear when off the mat.

Please ensure that your finger- and toenails are trimmed, as these can easily catch and scratch your partner during movement.

Finally, bring some wet wipes with you, so that if you’re hot or sweaty from the day, you can wipe the relevant parts – just spraying on deodorant before working closely with others often doesn’t help.