LESSONS
Home / Lessons
Overview
For your first lesson wear loose comfortable clothing, if you decide that Aikido is for you then you can purchase a Keikogi (training uniform)
The approach from Japan is to wear a white belt for all grades through to black belt at which point the black belt is awarded and the wearing of Hakama (traditional pleated over trousers) is also permitted.
Bow In
The class lines up sitting in seiza (kneeling) facing the Sensei (instructor) and a moments silence is observed. This allows you to calm your thoughts, slow your breathing, putting aside the problems and issues of your day and prepare yourself for the practise to come. The Sensei turns to face Shomen (front of Dojo) and a Rei (Bow) is made. The Sensei then makes Rei to the class which is returned. The class will then start.
Warm Up
We perform a basic set of warm up exercises to prepare the body and mind for the practise to come. The warm-up is designed to loosen up the body muscles, encourage aerobic breathing and to help avoid injury when training.
Basic Form and Ukemi Practise
Normally we would then practise certain body movements that form the basis of many Aikido techniques, followed by instruction and practise of ukemi (rolling break fall techniques) which allow us to train to receive the Aikido techniques at full force without injury.
Aikido and ukemi are inextricably intertwined; you cannot learn Aikido with a partner who is scared of the break fall. They will not attack you with full intention and focus if their mind is worried about what comes next. So this is an important part of our study and whilst many find this the biggest hurdle to start with, it does takes time to become proficient but it will happen.
Practise
The Sensei will then take the class and demonstrate techniques, which the students will then practise with partners or groups, changing each time to expose themselves to different body types, shapes, ability level and attitudes. Males and females practise together and women may prefer to wear a white T shirt under their Gi.
To Finish
The students will line up facing Shomen and make Rei (bow) and then to Sensei. The Sensei will then make any announcements and dismiss the class.
Lesson Times
Taunton Dojo
Juniors (Under 16):
Fridays: 19:00 – 20:00
Adults (16+):
Tuesdays: 20:00 – 21:30
Evesham Dojo
Adults (18+):
Thursdays: 19:45 – 21:45
Contact Us
Mike: 07769 341797
Tony: 07443 480694
News & Events
Social
Join our Facebook group for the latest news and events
