Saturday 31 January 2015

February Aikido Schedule and 13 Jo Kata Workshop

There is no aikido class this Monday (2nd February). However, there is a special weapons workshop on the 13 jo Kata (not suitable for complete beginners - but anyone with some experience of aikido, no matter what style or organisation, is welcome to attend). This workshop is given by Sensei Richard Small on Tuesday 3rd of February at 7:30. For the rest of February all classes run as normal on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:30.


Saturday 17 January 2015

Aikido - Putting the Art into Martial!

There is more to Aikido that simple self-defence techniques. The best Aikido is smooth, fluid and, well, just plain beautiful. In that spirit, I really enjoyed this video by an Indonesian teacher in which he demonstrates a number of defences against attacks while simultaneously manipulating a fan! This is not only aesthetically pleasing but it also shows a high level of skill. I hope you enjoy watching this as much I I did.
 

Friday 2 January 2015

Keep Fit with Aikido in 2015!

The Hartland Aikido Club starts back again on Monday 5th of January at 7:30 and we shall, as always, be practising twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays. If you are anywhere in the area (roughly between Bideford in North Devon and Bude in Cornwall), please come and join us. If you are new to Aikido, don't worry - we are a small, friendly club and we will help you at every step along the way. In addition to being a method of self-defence and a system for learning calmness of mind and relaxation of body, Aikido is also a great way to get into shape. We'll be studying a range of fitness exercises this year to increase flexibility, stamina and general fitness - no matter what your age!

Here is a short video of a fundamental technique to give you some inspiration: Katate Kosa Tori Kokyunage (which some Aikido styles call Iriminage)...