What You Need To Know About Aikido
Knowing what Aikido is and its origins are one thing but more important is how and where we practice. And what to Wear and bring to classes.
Commonly in the U.K. practice takes place in sports halls, gyms or community centres though there are some that have their own place.
Aikido classes are usually run through clubs often with one instructor as its head. Sometimes there are other instructors who will take classes also.
Other than Classes there are Special courses with guest instructors which give the chance to practice other people and forge friendships.
The most important thing to do when you first start is familiarize themselves with aikido etiquette. Remember It is OK to make mistakes with this, one of the seniors will guide you.
Aikido is an art for everybody there are practitioners from 5 years to 90 training every week in the U.K.
Because Aikido is not dependant on the use of physical force or a persons height there are no bars on who may practice. It is practiced by complete beginners, children, women, the disabled, and disadvantaged alike.
Aikido philosophy encompasses people from all walks of life regardless, of race, colour, creed, sexuality, gender identity, disability or social status. All you need is an open mind and an open heart.
Aikido is a form of exercise and practise can be either fast or slow, gentle or vigorous depending on the students ability. This means that you can start practicing regardless of your level of fitness; you just need the determination to keep training.
We do however ask that you make us aware of and medical conditions or issues which may affect training; this will be dealt with discretely but will help us reach our duty of care commitment.
Our philosophy talks about serving the community in general and behaving in a charitable manner. We offer concessions for the poorer sections of society.
When practiced in the correct manner aikido is trained in a co-operative manner, using stretching and warm-ups (kihon-dosa) to prepare the body. Working with a partner at either your or their level of proficiency depending on which is lower, thus people with no prior experience are able to practice, it is the seniors' duty to train in this manner.
Aikido is a form of exercise and practise can be either fast or slow, but progressing brings up the fitness levels, endurance and vitality.
Our practice helps enhance fitness, general health, improves co-ordination, concentration. Taking good ukemi helps stretch muscles and tendons making the body more flexible and pliant. The training program helps people develop self esteem and good self awareness. Our meditative practices help with relaxation and teach a calm state of mind. Above all the dojo promotes a friendly atmosphere and a safe environment where you can meet people and make friends.
Aikido is a traditional Japanese martial art so the appropriate clothing is needed for practice. For Aikido this is white keiko-gi (稽古着),or Aikidogi (合気道着). This suit is made of weaved cotton and comes in 2 peices the uwagi(上着)top and Shitabaki(下穿き) pants for Aikido these should have no badges or markings; however it is permissible to have your name written in katakana or kanji on the left upper sleeve. It is important to note that the jacket sleeves should not be rolled up during practice it is considered bad etiquette.
The Keikogi is fastened over the top of the Uwagi with a sash like belt called an (OBI 帯 ). These are often made of thick cotton and are about 5 centimetres (2.0 in) wide. The martial arts obi are most often worn in the koma-musubi 
