Giuseppe di Guardia

Aikido instructor, 3rd dan in Aikido

As the son of Italian immigrants, I was born in Cologne in 1995. In August 2012, after completing my technical college entrance qualification, I began training as an automotive mechatronics technician, which I successfully completed in January 2016.

Having always been fascinated by martial arts, I chose the peaceful martial art of Aikido at the age of 19. After two trial sessions, I decided – despite some initial scepticism about its style – to enrol with Dirk Kropp. After a few weeks of training, I realised that this style perfectly embodied the peaceful and gentle nature of Aikido.

Regular training reawakened in me the enthusiasm I’d felt as a child for the old masters and their martial arts. I wanted to become an Aikido teacher. After a year of intensive practice and reflection, I made up my mind. I resigned from my permanent job and took on a part-time role so that I could devote myself entirely to Aikido.

Five years characterised by discipline, rigorous dedication and profound engagement with the wide-ranging themes that Aikido offers. Inspired by the awareness and ethics inherent in our Aikido, I strive to cultivate these when practising with a wide variety of people.

Several trips to Japan have further shaped my view of Aikido. The interpersonal connections, the deep mutual respect on the mat and the special atmosphere – particularly before and after training – have touched me deeply. These are values that are deeply rooted in Aikido and which I would like to pass on.

I am now back working full-time, managing a German-Italian medical practice. There, too, the principles of Aikido – composure, respect and clear awareness in my dealings with people – guide me.

I dream of having my own dojo.