Aikido adult classes are offered mixed, at different locations (from 14 years and up). By studying the background of aikido, it may have become clearer that aikido has a nice balance between the budo elements (true self-defence) and spirituality (mind-set). Because of this comprehensiveness, it is sometimes difficult to explain what Aikido is. But to give an idea.
An Aikidoka (one who practices aikido) never attacks! It is based on calm and non-violent resilience. This principle is also reflected in the techniques, in which you do not eliminate the attacker permanently, but gain control through, for example, clamping. In Aikido, the emphasis is mainly on circular movements, with which dhe strength of the opponent is used against himself. The techniques therefore require little physical strength, making this Aikido adult class also very suitable for women and the elderly. You assume that everyone else is stronger than you. Aikido can also help you to develop both physically and spiritually.
The reason why Aikido is such a wonderful sport as self-defence lies in the fact that you can practice it throughout your life and it offers you tools to refine yourself as a human being. For whatever reason you start with Aikido, there is always something to take you further beyond the mat. You can endlessly discover and rediscover yourself in Aikido. And that's what makes this Japanese martial art so 'cool'.
To my mind, Aikido is a Japanese martial art that has the elegance of dancing, the efficiency of a spear and the breathtaking wonder of Patagonia. Because there are no matches are, the only goal is to improve your own technique. Increase your growth and development by following the Japanese wisdoms. Not for nothing do the Japanese live longer and have happier lives. More and more of this wisdom (Eastern philosophy) is coming to the West, think; Ikigai, Zen, mindfullness, calligraphy etc. Yoga is also not completely unknown within Aikido. For years, these methods were used in the warm-up before the class started. Aikido is still traditional and thus preserves the power of these wisdoms. Does this appeal to you? Sign up for an introductory class and experience this unique 'sport'. We will give you a warm welcome.
Aikido is not something you just practise in the dojo. You will see that when you get the hang of it. Sensei Edo and Anne explain that it works just like 'Omdenkenken'.
You don't walk the Aikido path alone. We are guided by our teachers and grandmasters. Their wisdom, teachings and example, is what helps us discover our own path.
Yes. We believe that Aikido works. Of course, you will have to put in enough mat hours for that (like all other martial arts). To complement this question, an Aikidoka only sees a 'won fight' when there was no need to fight. That is the essence of Aikido.
Aikido has many (graceful) turning movements. You'll never see an Aikidoka blocking anything, but turning with the energy that comes at him. Followed by e.g. a wristlock, from which a nice gliding roll then ensues. Not because this is a realistic falling movement, but one of the best ways to avoid injury. Did you know that, of all Martial-Arts, Aikido has the most variations in fall breaking?
We would say the philosophy of Aikido, that's where it starts. In which the lessons you learn with the Aikido is also very useful in everyday life. Think of things you might encounter in the office. (This is why you often see Aikido taught as corporate training. See Ando at companies.) In any case, Aikido is not the martial art you will encounter in the UFC. (Not bad in itself as you won't bump into these people very often).
Whether you have a Budo (collective name martial arts) background or not, it doesn't matter. Everyone's learning path is different. Of course, you will have some benefits. But is not a must to participate. We will build this together.
We will share the cost with you after the first lesson. After all, it is important to us that you like Aikido, not because it is cheaper than, say, tennis. Should it be too expensive, we will find something on that. The bottom line is, do you like Aikido? That's why our trial lesson is free. The choice after that is always up to you.
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