Aikido for Beginners

There are two options available to beginners to start training in aikido with Wellsprings Aikido - the 'Introduction to Aikido' course or a 4 lesson trial.

The Introduction to Aikido Course

The Introduction to Aikido Course runs over six weeks and is held either on Friday nights between 8pm and 9.30pm or on Sunday nights between 7pm and 8.30pm alongside the regular training sessions. The course will give you the opportunity to experience aikido and will provide a good grounding in the basics of the art. It also offers you the chance to train with others who are just starting out and to make new friends.

Cost of the course

The course costs £40 waged/£35 unwaged & full-time students (proof required). Included in the cost is a copy of the 'Introduction to Iwama Aikido' DVD (produced by one of our sister clubs in Reading to help students kick-start their training) and temporary insurance for the duration of the course. All fees must be paid in advance (before your first class). If you have not paid then you will be unable to train. Please note that you are enrolling on a 6 week course and refunds cannot be given for classes that are missed.

Course dates

Friday evenings

24th February 2012 - 30th March 2012
22nd June 2012 - 27th July 2012

Format of the course

The introductory sessions run alongside the normal training sessions. After an initial warm-up, the sensei (teacher) demonstrates techniques to the class who then partner up and practice those techniques. Aikido is not competitive. You work with a partner to develop an understanding of the movements and how it feels both to perform and to receive the techniques.

Be sure to advise the teacher of any medical problems, injuries or physical limitations which should be considered for your own safety and that of the other students.

The content of the course includes:

basics: dojo etiquette, hanmi (stance), ukemi (rolls and breakfalls), tai sabaki (body movement)
basic taijutsu (empty handed techniques): how to perform and safely receive basic attacks, locks, pins and throws.
an introduction to aiki weapons: jo (wooden staff) and bokken (wooden sword)

For detailed information about the course download the Introduction to Iwama Aikido - Beginners Course Syllabus

What to wear

Wear light but reasonably robust clothing, such as a sweat shirt and jogging bottoms. No jewellery or watches are to be worn during training. We train in bare feet but footwear should be worn whilst off the mat to avoid bringing dirt onto the training area. A karate or judo-gi (the familiar white costumes worn during training) can be purchased later if you decide to continue your aikido training.

Booking your place on the Introduction to Iwama Aikido Course

If you would like to attend this course please contact Mark Sensei.

The 4 class trial period

Beginners are always welcome and if you're interested in trying some aikido classes but can't wait for (or simply can't make) the next Introduction to Aikido course then you can take advantage of our '4 Lesson Trial' at any time that suits you. A '4 Class Trial' costs £30 waged/£25 unwaged & full-time students (proof required) and offers you the chance to attend 4 of our regular aikido classes on Friday and/or Sundays evenings so you can try aikido for yourself. All fees must be paid in advance (before your first class). If you have not paid then you will be unable to train.

After your course or trial period

At the end of your 6 week course or 4 Class Trial you will need to decide whether you'd like to continue with your aikido training or not. If you do wish to continue you will need to become a member of TIAE. Membership costs £30 p.a. (inc. insurance).

Not sure if aikido is for you?

Come along and watch a class before you commit to a course or trial. We're happy to welcome spectators and answer any questions you may have.

Back to the top