McLaren Hall, Killin · Scottish Highlands · Est. April 2023
It's not about overpowering your opponent. Rather as you train with your opponent, you both show respect to each other, perfecting your body and soul. That is what makes Aikido unique. — Moriteru Ueshiba, DoshuJoin a Class
Killin Aikikai — meaning "meeting place to train in Aikido in Killin" — was formed in April 2023, based in the McLaren Hall in Killin. We are a member of the Scottish and Borders Birankai under the Technical Direction and Chairmanship of Michael Flynn Shihan.
We offer classes in Aikido body art and Weapons — Bokken (wooden sword) and Jo (staff). All ages from 5 years and above are welcome.
Aikido is traditionally studied for two main reasons: Self Defence and Health — one complements the other. As you train regularly, you become stronger, more flexible, confidence increases and greater proficiency follows in Self Defence.
Throughout all classes there is a strong accent on Self Discipline and Self Control when working with partners. It is essential to have a feeling of empathy with the person you are training with, in order to have a positive outcome for both.
The Aikido promoted at Killin Aikikai is used entirely for self defence, with elements of Atemi as part of many defensive moves.
Regular training builds strength, flexibility and confidence that extends into everyday life.
A strong accent on self discipline and self control when working with partners on the mat.
Empathy with your training partner is essential — a positive outcome for both is always the goal.
David started his martial arts journey in 1971 with Judo, before being introduced to Aikido in 1978. He trained throughout a distinguished career as a Deck Officer in the Merchant Navy, including an extended period in Tokyo (Aug 1983 – Apr 1984) and as Uchi Deshi (live-in student) with Juba Nour Shihan in New York (Nov 2005 – Apr 2006), where he obtained his 1st Dan. Since retiring in 2018 he has trained regularly at Thistle Aikikai Dojo in Chryston with Michael Flynn Shihan. David was awarded 2nd Dan in April 2023 and Fukushidoin (Assistant Coach) in December 2024.
Paul Goatman Sensei is a highly experienced senior Aikidoka who joins us as Guest Instructor. Full profile coming soon.
A former competitive Sailor at National Level and Assistant Ski Instructor, Stephen originally found the joy of Martial Arts in the form of Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) and Savate (French Kickboxing) 25+ years ago. Over the years, Stephen has trained in numerous martial arts and is currently a 3rd Degree Black Belt in the arts of Muay Thai, Savate, Jeet Kune Do and Filipino Kali. Stephen also served as an Apprentice Instructor in the art of Muay Thai for 4 years. From the inception of Killin Aikikai in April 2023, Stephen has been a dedicated member of the club. Stephen is an enthusiastic member of the club’s committee together with training in the Adults class and assisting with the guidance of the junior members of the club.
Leeanne takes a particular interest in the welfare and wellbeing of our Junior Students, ensuring every child feels safe, supported, and welcomed at the club.
| Class | Time | Duration | Age Group |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Junior Class | 6:00 – 6:45pm | 45 min | Ages 5–8 |
| 2nd Junior Class | 6:45 – 7:30pm | 45 min | Ages 9–15 |
| Senior Class | 7:30 – 9:00pm | 90 min | 16 & Above |
All Juniors must register online before attending their first class — please contact us by email for the registration link. The first night is free; membership is required to continue.
Students progress through gradings over time, building technique, discipline, confidence, and understanding at each level. Our full testing requirements for adult and junior students can be viewed on the dedicated grading page.
View Testing RequirementsWe train at McLaren Hall, Main Street, Killin, FK21 8UW . All communications should be by email — please contact us to arrange your first visit.
The first night is completely free — come along and see if Aikido is for you. Junior classes combine fun, exercise and basic techniques in a friendly atmosphere. The Senior class covers Aikido body art and Weapons (Bokken and Jo). All classes emphasise self-discipline, self-control and empathy between partners.
Seminar Information
Click the preview to open the full PDF.
Upcoming Event
Click the preview to open the full event poster.
A glimpse into training sessions, gradings, seminars, and the community that makes our dojo special.
This is currently under construction — we look forward to sharing photos and videos from the mat soon
I have been training in martial arts for 25+ years in various different forms. I have always been encouraged to embrace new challenges and cross train all available martial arts when given the opportunity. Since starting Aikido with the Killin Aikido club, my flexibility, core strength, body movement and overall fitness has vastly improved. It has been a joy to learn a new martial art in this friendly and rewarding club with expert tuition. From my involvement with assisting the junior classes, it has been a privilege to see the progression of the younger generation gain confidence, discipline and enjoyment from the art of Aikido. I look forward to training in this art for many years to come.
— Stephen Rudd, 3 years trainingI came in knowing nothing about martial arts. Within a few months I had more confidence, better fitness, and a wonderful group of friends.
— [Member Name], BeginnerThe setting in Killin makes it special — training in the Highlands, you feel connected to something ancient. Brilliant club, brilliant people.
— [Member Name], 5 years trainingExplore our wider Aikido community and keep an eye on future club dates, seminars, gradings, and special events.
Killin Aikikai is part of a wider Aikido community with strong links across Scottish and Borders Birankai and associated dojos.
This the home website for Scottish and Borders Birankai. We are dedicated to the sincere practice of Aikido as created by Morihei Ueshiba and transmitted through the teachings of T.K. Chiba Shihan.
Visit Website →Aikido and weapons training in Chryston, Scotland, offering beginner through to advanced classes under the direction of Michael Flynn Shihan.
Visit Website →A traditional Aikido dojo in Burton on Trent, founded in 1986 and a member of Scottish and Borders Birankai, with training in body art and weapons.
Visit Website →Calendar coming soon
We plan to share upcoming seminars, gradings, and club events here.
A Google Calendar can be embedded once the club decides to make the relevant calendar public and provides the embed code.
Whether you're ready to step onto the mat for the first time, have questions about classes, or want to find out about membership — we'd love to hear from you.