This summer marked the start of our Erasmus+ Sport Mobility project, giving our instructors the chance to travel abroad for professional development. The first round took place at Gothenburg Aikido Club in Sweden, where our team spent three days of intensive job-shadowing and exchange.

Under the mentorship of Ulf Evenås Sensei (8th Dan) and Jöran Fagerlund Sensei (6th Dan), the training revealed how sword work provides the foundation for Aikido’s empty-handed techniques. Each movement built naturally from the bokken into tai-jutsu, offering clarity and depth that will continue to shape our approach in Ireland.

Beyond the practice itself, the Swedish instructors shared their experience of running a successful community dojo. Discussions ranged from children’s programmes and gender equality policies to event planning and club culture. Observing how senior students guide beginners and how mindfulness is woven into every class was especially inspiring.

The insights gained are already being introduced into our own classes in Dublin and Balbriggan, enriching both teaching and training. With more mobility rounds planned for the future, this programme is helping us strengthen Aikido in Ireland while building lasting connections with the wider European Aikido community.