Aikido
- for -
The New Forest, Hampshire & Dorset
Based in New Milton, Hampshire, England.
T. 07986-379725
postmaster@aikidonewforest.com
www.aikidonewforest.com
Welcome
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)
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The purpose of this section is to answer those common questions usually asked by beginners considering joining our club. Q.: Can I come and Watch a class? A.: Yes, if you are respectful of our Dojo and its members. Oh, and please introduce yourself when beckoned! Q.: Do I need to Phone first before coming the first time? A.:Not always - but if you contact us via one of the above methods, you will be more certain that we are not on holiday &c. (albeit rarely)! Oh, and we don't mind talking aikido anyway! Q.: Do I need Insurance? A.: Yes, if practicing on the mat. This is to protect YOU from being sued in the event of severe injury to someone else (albeit very rare, hopefully). It is currently (2010) £25 p.a. and is valid for all B.A.B. clubs in the U.K. (being the largest association of clubs). Q.: Do I need to buy an Outfit (Gi) or Weapons? A.: Not initially. Wear loose-fitting sports clothing capable of taking grabs &c. - or don't mind it getting torn! (unlikely for the first few sessions - we take it easy!) Q.: Do I have to help putting out/away mats? A.:Sorry, yes! If you are practicing - unless you are the teacher, of course! Q.: Am I likely to get Injured? A.: Hopefully not. Aikido techniques are generally designed to PREVENT injury. We take our aikido seriously, but also are serious about avoiding injuries. Q.: Is Aikido Effective for Self-Defence? A.: A common question. You aren't the first to ask this! For unarmed response, yes - if you train in those aspects set by the Teacher (Sensei) which emphasise the martial element, and become fully proficient in them. John Harding Sensei, in particular, has experience of international level Ju-Jitsu, and has worked as a 'club doorman' during his past - he can comment on the strengths/weaknesses of Aikido for this purpose. However, our main aim in our aikido classes, as per O'Sensei's intentions, is to promote the unification of oneself, and harmony with others. If you are especially worried on this point, you may discuss your requirements with the Teacher. Q.: How big are the class sizes? A.: Currently, small - but to your benefit! In the past, John Harding Sensei has taught larger classes, and courses, at other locations, but times have changed, and our catchment area is now relatively difficult (compared to city clubs). Still, you will probably see 3 to 5 persons on the mat - not counting YOU, yet, of course! Teacher-to-pupil ratio is high, and so the quality of teaching to YOU is likely to be HIGH. Q.: How long does it take to get each Grade (i.e. belt)? A.: Always a worry for beginners! We have no strict timeline - each individual is graded by the Sensei's judgement, at the correct time. Your first dan grading is usually by an independent (associated) organisation, for impartiality. In general, we take our gradings seriously, in terms of quality. Do note, though, that the early grades (i.e. before black belt) only demonstrate benchmarked progress in 'aikido understanding' - not 'proficiency' in the art, per se, compared to other clubs/individuals. Q.: Does anyone make money from the Club? A.: No. We are a not-for-profit CLUB. No monies are given to teachers or particular individuals. The more members that join, the cheaper it becomes ... The only requirement, is that the Sensei's teaching insurance is paid for by the club (currently less than £80 p.a.). Q.: What is the youngest age; any restrictions on ability, age, race &c.? A.: Generally 18 years-old. We have, however, accepted younger when they have been mature in attitude and remained under their parents' responsibility concerning injury &c. This question is at the discretion of the current Sensei, who considers the needs of the person, the effect on the rest of the class &c. In general, though, we are only prospering an adult class, and do not intend to change the nature of our classes. Concerning ability or race &c., no restrictions as long as the aforementioned criteria are satisfied. Ultimately, it is the Sensei's opinion which prevails, especially as it is his teaching that is being offered.
Q.: Do women aikidoka have to wear hakama (Japanese pleated trousers) in class? A.: No. It is their free choice. Q.: When are men aikidoka entitled to wear hakama (Japanese pleated trousers)? A.: During our classes - after appointment by the Sensei. At other (associated) clubs - once Dan grade, unless appointed by the Sensei especially.
Q.: Where can I get General Information about Aikido! A.: Look on our LINKS page ... Q.: I have a question not answered here! A.: O.K. email us, phone us, write to us ... We'll be glad to advise you! |
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