Chorlton Aikido Club

), Jo (wooden Staff) and Tanto (wooden practice knife). What are the benefits in training in Aikido

* Ideal for people to get fit
* Teaches you self defence skills
* Allows you to gain greater poise
* Gives you self confidence
* Allows you to approach life in a more positive manner
* ideal for someone looking for something different


How Do I Start? So if you fancy studying a modern martial art with ancient roots, and get fitter at the same time. Why not come along to St Ninians church hall on Wednesday nights 7:30 to 9:30pm (Please arrive 15 minutes early to register). jogging pants and T-shirt or if you have one, a Gi (judo suit). You will be shown the basics and integrated into the class, even on your first night. Beginners are welcome, 18 years and over. The cost is £15 (£12 concession) for first 4 weeks, including insurance for the year. After your introductory weeks a fee of £5.00 (£4.00 concession) is charged per session, membership to the Lancashire Aikikai is also charged at this time, currently this is £19 per year pro-rata. St Ninian’s Church Hall, Wilbraham Road, Chorlton M21 0XJ (Entrance on Egerton Road South)

Contact 07745645012 Ted Harris

What Is Aikido? Aikido is a Japanese martial art developed at the beginning of the 20th century by Morihei Ueshiba (often referred to by his title 'O Sensei' or 'Great Teacher'). It is an art that does not seek to meet violence with violence and yet retains its martial origins. You may know of aikido, possibly unwittingly, through Steven Segal, the burly action hero who squints and mumbles his way through films dispensing pain and death using aikido and various other martial arts. Actually aikido is the most peacful of martial arts; the emphasis is on bringing conflict to a peaceful resolution. Aikido translates from the Japanese as "The Way of Harmony and Spirit". It is essentially non-aggressive and non-violent, and in its orthodox form is non- competitive. It is based on circular movements by which an attacker's aggressive force is not met with force, but is instead deflected or turned back on itself. 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 (sword). Aikido does not require great physical strength or aggression, it is practised by people of all ages and physical constitution, and by women as well as men. Based on full and natural body movement, Aikido exercises every part of the body. Flexibility, co-ordination, balance and quick reaction are all developed through the study of Aikido. In common with other Oriental philosophies and disciplines Aikido teaches that there is no real separation between body and mind. In subjecting our bodies to the precise physical discipline of Aikido we may steadily influence our minds to the good: creating an inner calm and balance. The association that governs our club is the Lancashire Aikikai which was set up in 1965 as Chorley Budo Club. In the years that followed the Lancashire Aikikai expanded until now it consists of nine clubs spread all over the North West. Lancashire Aikikai is governed by the British Aikido Board which in turn ensures that all students are covered by insurance, all coaches have Professional Indemnity Insurance and are fully qualified as coaches to teach Aikido.