Nacer Foudil Smail (San Dan)

I have been practising Iwama Ryū Aikidō since 2001. My Aikidō journey developed significantly in Edinburgh, Scotland, where I trained for many years at the Aikido Edinburgh Club. During this time, I was not only a regular and committed student on the mat, but I also contributed actively to the life of the dojo through organisational responsibilities, event support, and the promotion of Aikidō via social media and community outreach.

For me, Aikidō is not simply a martial art; it is a lifelong path of discipline, humility, and personal development. My teaching approach reflects this philosophy, emphasising strong fundamentals, sincere and honest practice, respect for lineage, and an atmosphere of mutual learning and support.

Lineage

My Aikidō training and understanding have been shaped through a clear and sincere line of transmission within the Iwama tradition.

Since 2002, I trained for many years at the Aikido Edinburgh Club under the guidance of Steff Miller Sensei (4th Dan) and Ken Campbell Sensei (5th Dan), both senior practitioners deeply rooted in Iwama-style Aikidō. Their teaching placed strong emphasis on correct basics, posture and body alignment, the integration of weapons practice, and the importance of committed, sincere training.

This lineage connects directly to Iwama, Japan, through Yasuhiro Saitō Sensei and Hitohira Saitō Sensei, who continue the precise and faithful transmission of the Founder Morihei Ueshiba’s teachings within Iwama Shin Shin Aiki Shuren Kai.

Through this line of transmission, Kiai Dojo maintains a practice that is technically grounded, respectful of tradition, and aligned with the spirit and pedagogy of Iwama Ryū Aikidō.