Testimonial

Making tea, with Ki

Pete Bailie Bristol Ki Aikido Club

16 November 2025

Sensei Pete Bailie is a welcoming presence at headquarters. He has travelled from Bristol, where he teaches at the local Ki Aikido club — a role he has held for seventeen years, during which time he achieved 7th Dan.

Pete is known for two passions beyond the mat: tea and curry. At courses he has been known to volunteer members to make the tea, then supervise with exacting but encouraging standards. He once celebrated his 60th birthday by eating sixty curries with sixty friends — earning himself a reputation as Bristol’s foremost authority on the subject.

Q&A

In Pete’s own words

When did you start Ki Aikido?

I started in 1992.

What made you want to try Ki Aikido?

I did karate, but it wasn’t lessening my aggression. My brother had mentioned Aikido and I went to a class. I found it amazing how you could be very relaxed, and very powerful. Also as I was an actor and I taught movement practice, Ki Aikido was very complementary to this.

What do you enjoy most about practice?

I always feel better after practice than before, and feel exhilarated and full of life.

How do you benefit from Ki Aikido off the mat?

It reduces worry, stress and conflict in my life.

Describe Aikido in three words.

Zesty, fiesty, hearty.

What is your favourite exercise and technique?

My favourite exercise is unraisable body and technique is Tenchinage.

What is the greatest lesson Aikido has taught you?

Right is might (not might is right).

What advice do you have for anyone wanting to try Ki Aikido?

Dive in and enjoy.