Why Study Aikido
The study of aikido improves your awareness of people and situations. This type of awareness can help one to avoid situations in which they find a need to protect themselves and avoid fighting. However, if the situation is unavoidable, then aikido can be used as a form of self defence which can allow you to defend yourself and others.
“Even if you are smaller than your attacker, your size will not limit the effectiveness of the techniques used.”
Some of the aikido techniques are used by professionals in security, the military, or the police, such as the Tokyo Riot Police, whom are taught by the instructors at the Yoshinkan Honbu dojo in Japan.
Basic Aikido Technique - Shihonage
Practicing aikido through regular training will also improve your:
- fitness
- health
- general well-being
- strength
- flexibility
- joint mobility
As such, anybody of any age will gain immense benefits through the practice of this art.
Aikido is also much more than just the practice of physical techniques. There is a large mental aspect of aikido which aims to develop a students focus and concentration, which also aids in fostering peace and inner quiet. As you progress, you will find that a quiet confidence develops. This mental component of aikido, combined with the physical component, creates a balance of the mind and body.
How to Begin
To begin learning Aikido at our school, we recommend that you come to one of our two locations in Melbourne (Thornbury or Oakleigh .) to watch a class. This will allow you to get a feel for the style of the martial art, the school, the instructors and the students. Feel free to contact us via e-mail or telephone on 9480 1570 to arrange your free orientation.