BEGINNING AIKIDO
Aikido is not a combat sport and there is no “winner” or “loser”, both partners should simply try to learn from the training experience and improve their technique.
Before you get on the mat you should understand that Aikido is essentially very different from other martial arts like Karate or Taekwondo in that the person with whom you train is NOT an opponent, but a training partner - who permits you to use his/her body to learn your art, as you do in turn for them. It is NOT a fight or a contest of strength. Your training partner trusts you not to take advantage and hurt them. Don’t forget, you yourself will also be on the receiving end of the techniques!
What should I wear?
In Aikido we wear a traditional Japanese Gi - white trousers and jacket with a white belt. If you have gained an Aikido grade at another club please consult with the instructor beforehand. We do not use coloured belts at Bury Aikido.
If you do not yet have a Gi, Don’t worry, you can still come along and join in. We advise loose fitting comfortable clothing when starting out, such as tracksuit bottoms, yoga pants, T shirts. Clothes should be clean and free of dirt to keep the mat clean. As you will be training barefoot you should bring some flip-flops or slippers which you can wear from the changing area to the edge of the mat to avoid bringing dust and dirt onto the mat on your bare feet.
Please ensure that your fingernails and toenails are well trimmed to prevent injury to yourself or your training partners. If they are long they should be taped up. Long hair should be tied back and all jewellery removed to prevent injury and loss.
Dojo Etiquette
Upon entering and leaving the dojo, make a standing bow.
Club Fees
Mat fees range from £3 to £5 per session or some clubs offer a monthly basis instead. Some offer special pricing for your first few practices but this varies club to club. Details are provided with the individual club pages on this website. We insure everyone, via the national Governing body scheme, before they put their foot on the mat for everyone's protection and treat you as a temporary member for the first month.
Full Aikikai membership fees are not paid till towards the end of your first month with us. Once you decide to join the Association. You will pay the balance between the temporary membership and the pro-rated membership fee valid at the time you started which will be no more than £23. (Concession rate available for students, retired & unwaged)
Full membership is required once the temporary membership has expired because insurance is only effective when a person is in membership.