Aikido is a Japanese form of self-defence based on circular movement and minimal effort for maximum effect. An aggressor’s force is redirected away from the defender, who then throws or immobilises the attacker.
Aikido is not a religion or cult. Aikido does, however, contain ethical and philosophical teachings. One such teaching is that minimal force should be used to achieve one’s goal. This goal is to preserve one’s own life without inflicting undue injury on one’s assailant.
Aikido practice includes empty hand forms and weapons forms. Sitting meditation is also practised at this club.
Aikido History
Aikido was founded by Professor Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969). Professor Ueshiba (Osensei) was a master of many martial arts including jujitsu, sword and staff fighting.
Osensei incorporated great ethical principles into his art. Some of his students were martial arts masters who had challenged Osensei to a duel.
Refusing to attack, Osensei defeated these challengers by preventing their attacks until they gave up exhausted. An organisation grew up around Osensei called the Aikikai. This organisation is still run from the same dojo in Tokyo, Japan headed by Osensei’s grandson Moriteru Ueshiba.
In 1966 Osensei sent Chiba sensei to Britain to head up Aikido in this country. Chiba sensei spent 10 years teaching and establiching a firm foundation here before returning to Japan and then moving to America where he continues to live. Several Aikido organisation have formed under the directorship of Chiba sensei from the Aikidai of Great Britain, the Britisk Aikido Federation, the United Kingdon Aikikai and finally the British Birankai. Chiba sensei continues to be technical director of British Birankai and has visited teh UK to teach at its summer schools since its inception.
General Information
All Welcome
Anyone interested in learning Aikido is wecome to come along.
Join in and get fit, learn self-defence or just for fun of it.
Aikido is based on circular and direct movements so that maximum effect is achieved by minimal effort.
This means that anyone can practise – old/young, men/women, fit/unfit.
There are no competitions in Aikido which means that you can learn and progress at your own pace.
We come together to improve ourselves, not to beat other people!
What to Expect
Classes are studious and set at a level so that all those present take as much away as possible. The atmosphere is relaxed and lighthearted but strict etiquette is followed.
You will learn:-
how to fall safely
how to stand and sit in good posture
how to relax
self-defence
After class activities consist of a swift drink down the pub.
Aikido is a physical martial, as such it is important to inform the teacher of any injuries or conditions which may affect your practice. Injuries during class are rare and every effort is taken to prevent them but, as with all physical activities, there is an underlying risk that they might arise.
All instructors are qualified First Aiders.
What to Wear
Any loose fitting long sleeved top and trousers without protruding fasteners. No footwear required. Please ensure that feet are clean!
Once you are committed to continue either a Judo or white Karate suit should be worn. Zori (flip flops) should be worn to and from the mat.
Suits and equipment can be purchased through the club at reasonable rates.
Glossary of Terms
Sensei
Teacher
Nage
Throw
Waza
Technique
Tachiwaza
Standing technique
Suwarawaza
Kneeling technique
Hanmihandachi
One kneeling – one standing technique
Osaekomiwaza
Pinning technique
Nagewaza
Throwing technique
Tai
Body
Taisabaki
Body movement
Bokken
Wooden sword
Jo
Wooden staff
Tanto
Knife
Shinai
Bamboo sword
Keiko
Practice
Gi
Suit
Keigogi
Practice suit
Public News
Beginners are always welcome.
Come along to see us or join in
Feel free to contact us for information
Beginners Course in Wolverhampton
19-25 subsidised beginners course starting 9th October
6 week course on Thursday nights 7:30 - 8:30
Limited places
Contact Ian Grubb for details
Charity Sponsored throw
On Saturday 29th March we did a sponsored throw in aid of Acorns Trust Charity
The juniors threw the adults continuously more than 100 times - very tiring for the adults
Well done and thank you to all those that took part
Aikido was founded by Professor Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969). Professor Ueshiba (Osensei) was a master of many martial arts including jujitsu, sword and staff fighting.
