Introduction

Aikido literally translates as "the Way of Harmony with Ki ".  We at the Sowakan Dojo would like to extend a warm welcome to all new students. Those who have had little or no prior experience with Martial Arts will find upon entering, a world quite different from other forms of physical activities. Those who have had some previous training will also find some striking and substantial differences between Aikido and other Martial Arts.  All will find an atmosphere of quieting activity, where discipline and etiquette play an important role. Graceful movements are employed to practice powerful and subtle techniques. This highly evolved Martial Art allows practitioners of Aikido to respond to any conceivable attack, in a manner that gives them the opportunity of deflecting aggression in a controlled manner.

The study of balance is a large part of our training. We do this by centring ourselves, by relaxing and by focussing on the  "tantien" (the one-point); a point located two inches below the navel. This is the centre were our “Ki” emanates, were the power of Aikido comes from.  A regular part of classes in Yoshinkan Aikido are the many techniques that have been designed to develop this energy, this “Ki”.

Morihei Ueshiba developed Aikido from Bujutsu, (the fighting arts of Japan), in conjunction with the seemingly mystical philosophies of the Samurai. This art is based both on movement with technique and a philosophy that produces strength of mind and a confidence of character to empathize with others intent and to anticipate their movements. These forms of Aikido open the mind to new possibilities and shape our interaction with modern society in a positive and meaningful way.

A CLASS IN YOSHINKAN AIKIDO

All who take Aikido will find a special atmosphere in the Dojo, (training hall); were both formality and discipline are emphasized, but in a relaxed manner. Many of the instructor’s directions are spoken in Japanese. This is to keep the student in touch with the origins of Aikido and its founders. This is also a reminder of the traditions of the Samurai where it all began.

Classes begin and end in a similar manner. Students kneel in a line and prepare themselves for the upcoming class, they bow to the front of the dojo, then to the teacher. The class then proceeds with exercises, basic movements and breakfalls. The exercises are designed to develop stamina, improve flexibility and prepare the body for movement. The basic movements teach the basis of Yoshinkan Aikido techniques. Breakfalls are essential to strong Aikido techniques. These breakfalls are practiced many times, so that they become second nature, and may be executed in a dynamic but safe manner.

At this point the techniques of Aikido are taught.  A technique is first demonstrated by the Instructor, then practiced by the students. Student works with each another, so that they can explore the technique together. Beginners are often partnered with advanced students, which is a useful exercise for students at all levels of expertise. The Instructor is there for guidance, to answer questions and to provide individual instruction. It has been found that repetition for both beginners and advanced students is the only way to learn Aikido. In time Aikido manifests in the transitive for the student to harmonize with society.