Biography

Jean-René Leduc began his aikido training with William Gleason Sensei in 1980 in Boston, while also pursuing studies in the principles and practices of Macrobiotics with Prof. Michio Kushi.

In 1987 Leduc moved to Japan to deepen his aikido studies with Yoshinobu Takeda Sensei, founder and chief instructor of Aikido Kenkyukai International (A.K.I). Takeda Sensei later introduced Jean-René to his own teacher, Seigo Yamaguchi Sensei, and Jean-René was accepted as a student at Yamaguchi's private classes, where he also trained until leaving Japan.

Upon returning to Canada in 1992, Jean-René established A.K.I. Canada, and devoted himself to teaching and promoting Aikido practice in British Columbia, over time organizing, guiding, and growing five dojos in the organization.

Today Jean-René maintains strong connections with dojos of diverse affiliations around the world, and he is invited regularly to lead seminars in Europe and North and South America. He travels frequently as well to Japan to continue his studies with Takeda Shihan. Summer months will generally find him at home on his property in British Columbia continuing work on establishing a retreat center for people to come and study Aikido and other holistic living practices in beautiful and pristine natural surroundings.