Newcastle Aikido

Newcastle Aikido dojo terminology and etiquette series-
MA-AI | 間合い

Often translated as “distance” or “timing,” but Ma-ai is more than either.

It’s the ability to recognise what is needed, when it is needed, and how much is needed.

Too close and you create collision.
Too far and you lose connection.

In Aikido, Ma-ai is not just measured in steps or metres. It’s measured in awareness.

The right distance.
The right timing.
The right response.

On the mat, Ma-ai helps us move with harmony rather than force.

Off the mat, it reminds us that wisdom often lives in the space between action and reaction.

Our Hideaki Kobayashi on the tatami during a recent trip to Japan for Sandokai Aikido Kyoto’s 21st International Seminar 🐺 As president of the Australasianaikikai Hideaki Kobayashi strongly represents us on and off the mat 🙏🏻

Newcastle Aikido terminology series -
KOKYU (呼吸) – Breath Power

One of the words you’ll hear a lot around the dojo is Kokyu.

It literally means “breath”, but in Aikido it’s much more than just breathing.

Kokyu is the connection between mind, body and movement. It’s what allows us to stay calm when things get challenging, move with purpose rather than force, and find power through relaxation instead of tension.

You’ll often hear Sensei remind students to breathe.

Not because they’ve forgotten, but because when we’re under pressure, our first instinct is often to hold our breath and tighten up.

Aikido teaches a different way.

Breathe. Relax. Connect.

Whether you’re training on the mat, sitting in Zazen, practising Misogi, or dealing with the challenges of everyday life, Kokyu reminds us to return to our centre.

Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do isn’t push harder.

It’s take a breath.

KANGEIKO BEGINS TOMORROW.

Winter arrives. The mornings get colder. The days get shorter.
This is where discipline is forged.
For the next 45 days, our dojo will take part in an old tradition practised in Japanese dojos for centuries: Kangeiko (寒稽古) - Winter Training. A period of deliberate practice through the coldest part of the year, not despite the conditions, but because of them.
No shortcuts.
No waiting for motivation.
Just showing up.
From June 21 to August 4, we'll train, reflect, move, nourish, hydrate, and support each other through winter. Every session, every cold morning, every small act of discipline adds up.
This isn't about being the strongest.
It's about becoming the person who keeps going when it's uncomfortable.
The cold does not care. Neither do we.
❄️ KANGEIKO 2026
📍 Newcastle Aikido
📅 June 21 – August 4
🥋 45 Days of Cold, Discipline & Forging
Train. Endure. Forge.