The club is open to all and aims to be inclusive. Members safety is paramount, our instructors are trained, the activities set are appropriate to individual members abilities and the health and safety of our venues is reviewed regularly. Aikido was developed in Japan during the 20th century by Morihei Ueshiba, from Daito Ryu jujitsu. Aikido is based on traditional samurai techniques and is a defensive art, using blending, technique and the attackers own strength to overcome them. Aikido uses movement, throws, locks and holds to control an opponent. As Aikido relies on technique and timing and not on size or strength, it is suitable for all ages and men and women can train together. There is emphasis on learning how to fall safely and Aikido provides a good cardiovascular workout building strength, flexibility and co-ordination. The philosophy of Aikido is to inflict minimum harm on an opponent and to resolve conflict peacefully. Practitioners work together co-operatively to develop their technique and take turns to be either the attacker or the defender. The emphasis is on Aikido as way of traditional martial training and not on it's practical effectiveness in self defense situations.
