- Introduction
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Bristol Seishinkan Aikido Club practices traditional Aikido. We follow the style of the late Tamura Sensei - who was an Uchi Deshi (live-in stduent) of Morihei Ueshiba Sensei.
Our aim is to develop students mentally and physically and promote relationships between other Aikido clubs, styles and martial disciplines.
This is achieved by accepting students from all disciplines, regularly holding courses at the Japan Arts Centre with Stephane Benedetti Senesei (student of Tamura Senesei), instructors from different federations (Shobu Aikido Uk), and attending courses throughout the world.
- Who Should Practise Aikido?
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In order to effectively be adept in Aikido one has to be able to lift up to 3 ounces in weight.
Aikido is therefore available to anyone over the age of eight - although the Japan Arts Centre doesn’t teach a children’s (under 15) class - providing they have freedom of movement.
Students are actively encouraged to train at their own pace, thus confirming the theory that any weight, shape, size, or gender should be able to master Aikido.
- Typical Lesson
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A relaxed atmosphere is adopted in order to facilitate the correct learning environment.
The class begins with a warm up, then basics are taught in order to focus the body and mind. This is followed by a progression of movements that may include the use of weapons.
Etiquette - respect for each other and safety is adhered to in order to prevent accidents and to keep the correct training atmosphere.
- What is Aikido?
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Aikido is a Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba (often referred to by the title 'O Sensei' or 'Great Teacher'). On a purely physical level it is an art involving some throws and joint locks that are derived from Jujitsu and some throws and other techniques derived from Kenjutsu.
Aikido focuses not on punching or kicking opponents, but rather on using their own energy to gain control of them or to throw them away from you. It is not a static art, but places great emphasis on motion and the dynamics of movement.
The principle of Aikido is of conservation of energy and controlling an opponent through up ending their body’s axis and making them revolve around yours. By achieving this, dynamic movement is created as the opponent is pinned to the ground or thrown accordingly.
The nature of this principle makes Aikido an effective art that was created to combat either a singular or multiple attacks from aggressor(s) who may or may not be armed.
