Here are some commonly asked questions about Aikido.
Aikido is primarily a martial art. A system of self defence.
However unlike most martial arts, Aikido can be taken into your daily life as well. The calmness and clarity of mind a person gains from Aikido training are equally useful for solving problems in the work place or in the home.
Anybody willing to take the time and put in the effort to learn Aikido can practice Aikido. Aikido is not based on physical strength and all groups of people, from young children to elderly pensioners, can benefit from Aikido training.
Aikido involves exercising both the body and the mind. A typical practice will involve all of or a combination of:
Keeping the body fit and supple is very important in Aikido due to the physical demands of Aikido techniques. For this reason all parts of the body, from the neck down to the toes are loosened off and stretched before practice. It is therefore important to turn up early before practice begins.
You do not need to be fit to start Aikido. Over time regular practice and training will help you become fit.
All you need to start Aikido is a pair of track suit trousers and a t-shirt. After a few practices, should you decide you wish to continue then you may buy a proper Gi. More advice on this will be given when you join.
The dojo etiquette is an important part of Aikido. It is used primarily to encourage students to look after each other and the dojo properly.
Without a dojo to practice Aikido, we cannot practice safely. Without other students to practice with, we cannot practice Aikido at all.
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