The Class

The aikido class is a friendly group which consists of males and females covering a range of ages and professions.  In addition to Aikido techniques the class may also include Kenkodo (way of Health) which includes Kokyuho (breathing), Seizaho (meditation), Kenkotaiso (exercises for health), Sotaiho (exercising a partner’s body) and Teateho (method of placing hands).

The social aspect of training is not neglected and discussion of Aikido often continues in the pub after the formal training session is over!

What do I need to wear?

Initially you can wear any loose and comfortable clothing eg jogging tops and bottoms. Eventually you will want to buy a suit specifically for aikido. These are either white judo suits or white karate suits. Judo suits are usually thicker than karate suits and last longer but they are hotter in warm weather. You can buy your own suit or order one through the Burton Ki Society.

You will need to wear appropriate footwear when walking from the changing room to the practice area (the mat). Slippers, sandals or flip-flops are suitable. Zoris (traditional straw ‘slippers’) can be bought from the Club.

Times

Currently classes take place on Tuesday nights and Friday nights at the Burton Judokwai, Broadway Street, Burton on Trent at the following times:

Beginner’s class (Tuesday): 8.30 to 9.30 pm - £2.50
Beginner's class (Friday): 7.30 to 8.30 pm - £2.50
General class (Friday): 8.30 to 10.00 pm - £2.50

Gradings

All martial arts have a grading system, usually indicated by wearing coloured belts. Progression through the grades is voluntary, although most people choose to take gradings. 

The British Ki Society has separate gradings for Ki and Aikido.

In Aikido, beginners start with a white belt and then move through yellow, orange, green, blue and brown belts. These stages are best thought of as preparation, where students learn the basic techniques of Aikido.

After brown belt students can take a black belt or Shodan grading.

A first-degree black belt is an advanced beginner. That is to say the belt signifies their passage from the ranks of those who are still learning to the ranks of those who have learned how to learn. 

A breakdown of the current grading syllabus can be found here.

Tsuzukiwaza

Tsuzukiwaza are sets of techniques performed in a specific sequence. This way of practice makes one understand the relationship and meaning of techniques.

More information about tsuzukiwaza can be found here.