Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells Shodokan Aikido Club
Junior classes are held during term time at Tonbridge Judo Dojo, Cannon Lane, Tonbridge, 10.00am – 11.30am. Junior classes are from age 7 – 16yrs.
Adults Classes are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Vale Road Methodist Church, Tunbridge Wells 8.00pm – 10.00pm. Adults: 16 years and over.
For more information contact James Burman on aikido@jamesdrivingschool.com / 07904 339828 or visit www.shodokanaikido.org.uk/westkent
Classes are £6 (£5 concs) or £20 for once a week sessions, or £40 for twice a week sessions.
All beginners’ are carefully guided through how to fall properly and the basic body movements that are unique to Aikido. Aikido is a martial art involving a wide range of techniques that can be used to throw or immobilise an opponent and it helps the practitioner to develop fitness, confidence, improve balance and movement. Aikido is suitable for both men & women, as the principles rely on correct execution of the technique rather than brute strength.
Open to both men and women our beginners’ courses are held in a safe, well run environment. Our instructors hold BAB (British Aikido Board) instructor licences and insurance, they have all trained in Japan and are graded to Japan Aikido Association (JAA) qualification. Our club is a member of Shodokan UK, and is one of the oldest Shodokan Aikido Clubs in the UK.
Shodokan aikido features a new organisation of the atemi waza (striking techniques) and kansetsu waza (joint techniques) which are particularly effective techniques from jujitsu. The practice system is generally divided into two parts: kata practice and randori practice but can be adjusted according to age and physical strength as follows:
• Children
Practice is centered on the basics of correct posture, movement, balance breaking and breakfalls. We place importance on agility, safety and good manners.
• Young people
Progress is made from kata practice to randori practice. Young people experience the intensity and fun of competition and, through matches, build up strength, stamina and quick reactions.
• Women
Women build strength and learn self-defence techniques. From this training they will acquire good posture and a flexibility body.
• Older adults
Through kata, older people can explore the diverse sword, spear and other techniques from old jujitsu. As such, it is particularly useful for maintaining flexibility, warding off the ageing process and keeping healthy.
