Is Aikido effective self defence?

martial-arts-brisbane-2Many people ask whether Aikido training is effective self defence. The answer depends on whether you want to learn to fight or want to learn skills to cope with life’s difficult moments.

Fighting is never the solution. People fight only because they can’t remain calm and they can’t control their ego.

If you want to learn to fight then there are other martial arts that will provide some useful skills earlier. Aikido takes longer to become proficient.

I have seen a lot of beginners leave because they have no patience to learn the art. They are searching for more immediate results.

So if you don’t want to fight but you want a martial art that teaches non confrontational self protection skills, then Aikido is for you!

Let me give you a few examples of what I mean:

  • If you are a female in a domestic argument whose partner has just grabbed you by the wrist and is threatening to strike you with his other hand then Aikido training will enable you break free and escape.
  • If you are a female jogger grabbed by a bikeway stalker then again yes, aikido training will again help you break free and escape, regardless of how big and strong the attacker is.
  • If you are mugged at gunpoint or at knifepoint, then yes Aikido training will help you – not to do anything stupid like trying to disarm the assailant, but it will give you the calmness and presence of mind to give them your money and walk away safely.
  • If you are threatened by a gang then yes Aikido will provide the awareness skills to sense the danger early, or the calmness to try to find a peaceful way out, or the courage to run like hell.
  • If you are bullied at school then Aikido training will give you the confidence and self esteem boost you need to walk anywhere in the school yard without being harassed. Since starting Aikido training not one of our club’s many school children has been bullied and not one has ever been drawn into a fight.

Awareness is your greatest protector. A calm mind enables you to think clearly under pressure. Aikido develops those and gives you some useful escape skills. It also develops many more martial skills over time but they should never be used unless life is threatened.

If your are looking self defence or for martial arts in Brisbane, give Aikido a try at Griffith Aikido. We are located at The Hills PCYC on the northside, and at Nathan Campus, Griffith University on the southside. Students and non-students welcome. For class times go to https://www.griffithaikido.com.au/class-times/

Shukan News 21st Mar

Monday 21st March 2011

If you have any contribution for the Shukan News (story, photograph, video), please send it via email to gary@garyweigh.com

1. Message from Kondo San

Dear Friends,
Since the conditions in Japan have somewhat deteriorated with the nuclear radiation threat added to the initial disaster, and we are all worried about Sensei’s wellbeing, I have sent another letter to inquire about the present circumstances and to ask whether we could help in any way.
Following is information from Kondo-san, which she asked to pass on to everybody. (It was originally in Japanese, so this is the gist of it …).
Kind regards
Elizabeth

Maruyama Sensei

“These are the current conditions. Information on the TV is that goods have disappeared from shops, but in Tokyo vegetables, meat, fish, rice and toilet paper is available. Everyday life is not a problem. I am helping Sensei in his house to finish cleaning up. Sensei came back to his home in Edogawa-ku on the 12th and he is here now. We are both well, but very busy.
Water, electricity and gas are no problem, so life goes on. Thank you for your concern.
Yasuko san had lots and lots of tableware and most of it is broken. There are few remaining servicable items, but it is not a problem.
However the nuclear plant disaster is a little worrying. Since the electric power level has dropped, the electric train service is scarce and it is difficult to go to the dojo, so we have suspended tomorrow’s aikido practice.
Because of the aftershock and radioactivity Sensei and I refrain from leaving the house. When we see on the TV the people of the area struck by the disaster, the heart aches. However please let everybody know that Sensei is well.”

2. Safety Part 2 – injury, illness and bleeding

aikido-brisbane-ukemiOne of the most important requirements of long term Aikido training is sustained good health, which includes an injury-free body. It is difficult to practice when you are sick or injured. It can also be unsafe for others.
So in addition to observing safe practices on the mat (see Shukan News 14th March edition), good health practices, both on and off the mat, are critical to maintaining a safe environment for everyone.

• One of the first techniques you learn in Aikido is Ukemi – the art of defensive falling. Instruction starts in the Beginner’s Course and Ukemi practice never ceases. It is critical that you develop the ability to be able to fall correctly and safely because it underpins safe Aikido practice. It also plays a significant role in self protection outside the dojo.

• All injuries must be reported to the class instructor. It is often the case that you don’t realise that you are injured until you go home and cool down. If that is the case, please let us know as soon as possible, even if that is at the next class or by email. We need your feedback to be able to take action.

• When you return from a significant period of illness or injury, you must discuss you practice capability with the instructor. It is a mistake to think you can immediately return to your pre-illness or pre-injury levels of competence. It is important that you cease or sit out activities that cause you discomfort. Accordingly, the instructor will encourage you to modify your practice if required e.g. no forward rolling, no sit down backwards rolling etc

• It is your responsibility to tell the instructor of any infectious disease you may have or any condition that might affect the health of others. The most common infectious disease is a cold or flu. We understand your commitment to practice but in the interests of protecting your fellow students please do not come to class when you are sick with a cold, flu or any other infectious disease.

• The instructor has the right to exclude any student from class. Whilst this rarely occurs, it is done to protect the other people in the class. Reasons are usually associated with an obvious injury or poor health of a student, including obvious symptoms of colds and flu. Occasionally it can be related to discipline or inappropriate behaviour

• The instructor may also ask you for a written medical clearance before allowing you to return to class. We understand that some students are keen to return from injury or illness, but they can also represent a danger to themselves or to their fellow students.

• When returning from injury or when nursing a minor injury, it is the student’s responsibility to disclose the injury to the instructor and to every training partner. It is our practice to put tape of your Gi in the form of a cross (x) to mark the injured or sensitive body part.

• If you are bleeding or have blood on you or if you have blood on your Gi then you must leave the mat immediately. This also applies to a cut or an open wound that has the potential to bleed during practice. Most cuts are caused by long fingernails, toenails and items of jewellery worn on the mat. Occasionally, the cause can be accidental collision with another student or accidental contact with a wooden weapon.

• Any student who has come into contact with blood may not return to the mat until blood has been cleaned off, bleeding has stopped and the wound is appropriately dressed. Any blood affected area of the mat should not be used until cleaned and disinfected with dilute bleach solution (5.25% sodium hypochlorite). Gloves should be used when treating or come into contact with blood. Disinfectant, dressings, gloves and bleach are located in the First Aid kit. If you have come into contact with blood and are concerned, seek further medical advice.

3. Cheese and crackers for the soul

“Knowledge in harmony is called constant. Constant knowledge is called wisdom. Increase of life is called felicity. The mind directing the body is called strength.” Lao Tzu

Michael Williams Sensei weekend seminar 26/27 March

martial-arts-in-brisbane-sensei-williams1Michael Williams Sensei, International Chief Instructor and Australian Chief Instructor, Aikido Yuishinkai Australia will be conducting a weekend seminar on 26th & 27th March, 2011.

This seminar is proudly hosted by Byron Bay Aikido Club and will be held at Goshinkan Dojo, 46 Melaleuca Drive, Byron Bay.

Saturday March 26th 10.00am – 4.30pm General classes

Sunday March 27th 10.00am – 12.30pm Special weapons class

Cost: Full seminar $55 / $45; 1 day: $40 / $35; Per session: $20 / $18

Beginners, intermediate and advanced students are welcome to attend this seminar.

Come meet and train with Michael Williams Sensei, the founder of Goshinkan Dojo.

Aikido – what does it mean?

If you are searching Brisbane martial arts, try Aikido. it is nothing like you have ever imagined a martial art to be. So what does Ai-ki-do mean?

Ai – Harmony

brisbane-martial-arts (2)Central to Aikido is the idea of being in harmony with your opponents, rather than in conflict with them. The movement and energy of an attack is redirected without the need for collision or the use of force. The physical practice of this fundamental principle of Aikido leads to a better understanding of people and nature, while teaching essential skills for the resolution of conflict.

The movements of Aikido are circular and flowing. They are designed on the principles of nature and move in circles and spirals.

When Aikido is performed well, there is a great beauty and composure in the movements of both partners.

Ki – Life Energy

Ki is the universal energy, which gives life and vitality to all things. Developing both an understanding of Aikido principles and the ability to direct and use Ki are an integral part of Aikido training.

Relaxation exercises, breathing methods, meditation, Yuki (healing with Ki), bokken (wooden sword), and jo (wooden staff) are used to help students master Aikido principles by giving them the opportunity to experience Ki with their own minds and bodies.

Understanding and developing Ki is a way of enhancing your natural strengths and abilities. As you begin to understand Aikido principles, you will in turn develop creative and practical new ways to apply these principles to your daily life.

Do – The Way

The Aikido dojo (meaning ‘place of the way’) provides a secure and friendly environment where we can begin to see and understand our fears, anxieties, reactions and habits. Aikido training is entirely non-competitive and fosters an attitude of support and cooperation.

The concentration and discipline required for Aikido training brings focus to our daily life. Aikido challenges us to improve our skills and attempt new things. By achieving these new skills, we gain confidence in our ability to maintain stability and poise in the everyday challenges of our lives.

(An exerpt from pages 15-17, Aikido Yuishinkai Student Handbook by Michael Williams, Chief Instructor, Aikido Yuishinkai International)

For Griffith Aikido class times and locations go to https://www.griffithaikido.com.au/class-times/

Shukan News 14th Mar

Monday 14th March 2011

If you have any contribution for the Shukan News (story, photograph, video), please send it via email to gary@garyweigh.com

1. AGM at 8pm this Thursday evening 17th March

A final reminder that our AGM will be held at 8pm this coming Thursday evening 17th March, after an early finish to class. Remember that nominations for Management Committee positions close on Tuesday 15th March.

2. Safety Part 1 – safe practice during class

martial-arts-in-brisbane-aikido-practiceAs our Aikido school maintains its popularity, we continue to make our members aware of the rigid safety policies of our dojo. We practice a potentially dangerous art which has inherent risks. For this reason, it is paramount that we all make practice as safe as possible.

Safety is one of the reasons for the strict discipline in every aikido dojo, including ours. Safety is the reason that you must follow Sensei’s instructions exactly and without question, and your actions should not deviate from those instructions.
Safety is one of the reasons that we practice cooperatively with each other and offer no resistance. Not only does it aid your learning, but as uke (the person receiving the technique), it is safer to go with the flow during a technique and roll out safely, than it is to resist.

Safety is not just the responsibility of the instructor in charge of the class. Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Once you enter the dojo, you must be aware and stay aware of what is going on around you. You must also accept personal responsibility to play your part in safe practice.

Here is a list of things you are expected to do to ensure safe practice of Aikido in a safe environment:

• When laying out the mats, it is important that there is a safety buffer zone around the outside of the mats. This area should be clear of all obstacles. This distance should be a minimum of one (1) meter of clear space around the edge of the mats. Any obstacles that can’t be removed must be protected in some way (e.g. cushioned)

• Any systemic obstacles and dangers on or near the mats should be brought to the instructor’s attention

• We come into close contact with the mat surface on a regular basis so it is important that the mats are vacuumed at least weekly to maintain them in as clean a condition as possible

• Spectators should be well clear of the mat

• Weapons should not be stored near edge of mat

• Weapons should not be laid on the mats or on the floor between the mats as they represent a danger if stepped on or rolled on

• All techniques that result in throws and pins should be directed to the outside of the mat at all times. The aim is to avoid collision

• Throws, pins and ukemi (defensive falling) practice performed by different groups should always be performed in the same direction. Falling backwards or rolling forwards in a direction that is different to another group creates a high risk of collision

• When practicing in pairs, the person performing the technique (nage) is responsible for the safety of the person receiving the technique (uke). Before throwing uke, nage must ensure there is sufficient empty mat area for uke to land safely

• When practicing in threes, nage is still responsible for the safety of uke however, the 3rd person represents an extra layer of protection by being vigilant and acting as lookout and protector

• When practicing in teams, a senior is usually nominated as the person in charge of each team and oversees practice within that team. Nage is still responsible for the safety of uke. Other members of the team not practicing a technique or awaiting their turn should remain aware of activity around them. They should be ready and able to move rapidly; and should not impede the practice or place themselves in danger

• At times, the instructor will restrict groups to different mat zones either verbally or with markers. It is your responsibility to ensure that you and every member of your group stays within your designated zone

• If you see any obstacle that looks like danger or any behaviour on the mat that appears inappropriate or dangerous or is inconsistent with the instructor’s instructions please do something about it. Remove the obstacle or in the case of inappropriate, dangerous or inconsistent behaviour, tell the instructor

Practicing Aikido (or not) is always your choice. At any time, you may sit out of an activity. Whether you are injured, feel unwell, or assess that an activity is beyond your present capability, you always have the right to choose.

Remember that in learning Aikido you are also learning the traditions and etiquette of Aikido. We therefore ask that you do not refuse to participate in traditional and etiquette-related activities such as bowing, respecting the rank of those senior to you and folding the hakama of an instructor. If you do that as an intermediate or senior, you are setting a very poor example for those coming behind you.

3. A piece of history

Sliding door panels of the Kyoto Imperial Palace – a past exhibition at the Kyoto National Museum

martial-arts-in-brisbane-kamo-festival1The Kamo Festival, which has been held since the Heian period (794-1185), represents one of the oldest festivals in Kyoto. The festival was traditionally held in prayer for the abundant harvest of the five grains (rice, wheat, barley, millet, and beans). Although the festival was discontinued for about two hundred years after the Onin Rebellion (1467-1477), it was revived during the Edo period (1616-1867). Today, this event is known and cherished in Kyoto as the Aoi Matsuri (“Hollyhock Festival”).

This painting depicts the ceremonial procession from the Imperial Palace to the Lower and Upper Kamo Shrines. This traditional scene of the imperial ox cart, the envoy, and attendants conveys courtly culture of Kyoto. Komai Korei, the painter of this work, studied under Yoshimura Kokei (1769-1836), who was a pupil of Maruyama Okyo (1733-1795) and a painter of the Maruyama-Shijo school.
Courtesy of the Kyoto National Museum http://www.kyohaku.go.jp/eng/index.html

Aoi Mutsuri (Hollyhock Festival) in May 2010

4. Cheese and crackers for the soul

“The skillful traveler leaves no tracks; the skillful speaker makes no blunders; the skillful reckoner uses no tallies. He who knows how to shut uses no bolts–yet you cannot open. He who knows how to bind uses no cords–yet you cannot undo.” Lao Tzu

Michael Williams Sensei

Michael Williams griffith-aikido-brisbane-michael-williams-senseiSensei is Chief Instructor of Aikido Yuishinkai international. Australian Aikidoists are incredibly fortunate to have Williams Sensei residing in South east Queensland and soon to be living permanently to Northern NSW.

At Griffith Aikido Institute, we were very pleased to have Williams Sensei teach at our school once a week for most of 2010. To have such high caliber instruction and valuable insight over such a long period was truly engaging and inspiring for students of all levels.

This background on Michael Williams Sensei is an excerpt from Sensei’s own Aikido Yuishinkai Student Handbook.

“Michael Williams Sensei was first attracted to Aikido while visiting New Zealand in 1974, where he attended demonstrations by Koichi Tohei Sensei. He was a serious student of Yoga and Wing Chun Kung Fu at that time.

Returning to his homeland of South Africa, he began training with Jean Claude Delgueldre Sensei, Chief Instructor of Aikido in South Africa.

He immigrated to New Zealand in 1978 where he continued his training with the New Zealand Ki Society. He moved to Australia in 1981, where he founded Aikido Ki Society Australia and established his first dojo at Griffith University Brisbane.

In 1985, he was appointed Chief Instructor of Australia by Koichi Tohei Sensei.

At that time, Maruyama Sensei was the Chief Instructor of Ki Society International and taught many seminars in Australia and New Zealand. He was an inspirational teacher to one and all, and during this time Williams Sensei and Maruyama Sensei formed a special bond.

In 1989, Williams Sensei relocated to Byron Bay in Northern NSW where he built Goshinkan Dojo. Bordered by forest reserve, ‘Goshinkan’ provides a serene haven for all Australian Aikidoists to train together. It was officially opened by Master Koretoshi Maruyama, President of Ki Society International, in May 1991.

Williams Sensei resigned from Ki Society International in December 2001 after a 28-year association with the organisation. At the same time he also resigned from Aikido Ki Society Australia, the group he founded in 1981.

After re-establishing contact with Maruyama Sensei, Williams Sensei was requested to act as a facilitator to disseminate Aikido Yuishinkai throughout the world.

In September 2002, Master Koretoshi Maruyama held the first international seminar for Aikido Yuishinkai at Goshinkan Dojo in Australia.

In October 2003, Master Koretoshi Maruyama awarded Michael Williams Sensei 9th Dan and appointed him Chief Instructor of Aikido Yuishinkai international.”

Footnote: In December 2009 Master Koretoshi Maruyama honoured Williams Sensei once more by awarding him with the 10th Dan.

Be sure to attend the Michael Williams Sensei seminar at Goshinkan Dojo on 26th & 27th March 2011. Mark your calendar!

Kamiza the seat of honour

martial-arts-brisbane-kamiza1Just as we would seat an honoured guest at the head of the table in our house, we honour the heritage of Aikido and our lineage by creating a seat of honour inside our dojo. The Japanese word is Kamiza.

Its position inside the dojo reflects the notion that it is the highest or top seat in the house. It is located in the middle of our dojo, away from the door, away from extremes of weather; and in the Japanese feudal tradition removed from any likelihood of intrusion or attack.

A picture of the founder O Sensei Morihei Ueshiba is always displayed in the Kamiza of an Aikido dojo. In our dojo, as in every other Aikido dojo that follows the Yuishinkai style, of Master Koretoshi Maruyama, we also display the shin calligraphy. This original calligraphy was presented personally by Maruyama Sensei when our dojo first opened.

So what does this calligraphy represent? The characters for Yui-shin show that the Mind is at the core of existence. This way of thinking forms the heart of Eastern philosophy. Yuishin originates from the concept that, “All beings and phenomena are a transformation of the mind; there is no existence other than Mind itself.” (p.6 Aikido Yuishinkai Student handbook by Michael Williams Sensei, World Chief Instructor, Aikido Yuishinkai International)

Our Kamiza also includes the weapons of Aikido – the bokken, the Jo and the Tanto. These weapons have considerable historical significance and are intrinsic to the teaching of the art of Aikido.

So when we bow to Kamiza, we are paying our respects to our guests in the seat of honour!

Photograph courtesy of Spiral Photography http://www.spiralphotography.com.au

Check out Michael Williams Sensei upcoming seminar and the date of our next Beginner’s Course at the Announcements board of http://www.griffithaikido.com

Shukan News 7th Mar

Monday 7th March 2011

If you have any contribution for the Shukan News (story, photograph, video), please send it via email to gary@garyweigh.com

1. Management Committee Nominations

Just a reminder that our AGM will be held at 8pm on Thursday evening 17th March, after an early finish to class. Nominations for Management Committee positions close on Tuesday 15th March. We have received 2-3 new nominations this year. It is very pleasing to see that members are interested in the future of your club.

2. Adult grading last Saturday

I love grading day. Not only is it a demonstration in front of peers, it is the culmination of a lot of hard work and practice. The nerves, the last minute practice, the pressure of solo kata and the struggle to relax, are all part of the exciting atmosphere of grading day. Nine of our members graded on Saturday and all of them acquitted themselves very well.

5th kyu (yellow belt)

Jason’s 5th kyu grading was the first of the morning. It is never easy being the first onto the mat and up there all alone. Jason has worked hard since his last grading demonstration and it showed.

He maintained an upright posture; his techniques were very good and when he relaxed, the true potential we see in class started to shine on through.

Very well done Jason!

3rd kyu (green belt)

Kylie, Bartek and Danny excelled in their 3rd kyu grading. They all appeared relaxed and were very smooth in their technique. They maintained good posture and moved very well around the mat; in control throughout. It was pleasing to see that they dictated the speed of the techniques which was often much slower than the attacks. They also maintained good connection with Ukes. Congratulations to all of you on a first class grading!

2nd Kyu (brown belt)

Jason, Slav, Natalie and Rick all performed very well in their 2nd kyu grading. Jason’s grading has been a long time coming, but worth waiting for! It was very smooth and relaxed. I hope Jason’s next two gradings occur a little sooner than his last. I would like to see his Shodan grading in my lifetime.

Meanwhile, Natalie went about her demonstration in a very quiet and relaxed way. She moved well and maintained a good upright posture. She showed a good variety of techniques and her taninzugake was very smooth as she maintained calm composure all the way through.

Rick and Slav also did very well. Both of these guys have good martial awareness, good control and are technically very sound. Both have also fought a determined battle in recent months to relax and soften their technique. Their performance in this grading was a huge step forward and pleasing to see. Congratulations to you both on your hard work and tenacity. The journey is never without a few challenges.

All four students did a very good job with weapons. Their Tanto Tori and Bokken Tori performances were very sound and their solo kata showed good form.

At the end of a long grading, they were performed with a high degree of calmness and confidence.

Congratulations to all of you on very good performances!

Shodan (black belt)

It is always a treat to watch Yudansha grading demonstrations and John didn’t disappoint us. He has trained with us for the past 2 years or so but his early training was undertaken at Byron Bay Aikido club. We were delighted that Jim Sensei traveled from Byron Bay to oversee his grading.

As we expected, John was relaxed, smooth and efficient, showing a good variety of technique. For me, the most impressive part of his taninzugake demonstration was his unbroken connection with Uke and his ability to use the entire area of the mat to his advantage.

Even when he wasn’t in contact with Uke, John was in total control. He positioned Uke exactly where he wanted and used his own movement to shorten Uke’s attack or lengthen it as he pleased. As a result, his Ukes were often on the back foot and worked very hard. It was a wonderful demonstration of relaxation, control and power.

John showed great composure through his weapons kata, and then immediately seized the initiative in his Saningake demonstration by taking control of his three Ukes from the start. Overall, it was a very competent and most entertaining grading. Congratulations John!!

Grading day is never complete without a social gathering afterwards. Many thanks again to Jutta and Narelle for buying and preparing the food.

A special thanks to Jim Sensei and Ty for coming all the way from Byron Bay to participate.

I would also like to say a big thank you to everyone who participated as Uke. It is always hot work on a humid February day in Brisbane.

Until the next grading at the end of May!

Gary

3. Michael Williams Sensei weekend seminar 26/27 March

Michael Williams Sensei, International Chief Instructor and Australian Chief Instructor, Aikido Yuishinkai Australia will be conducting a weekend seminar on 26th & 27th March, 2011.

This seminar is proudly hosted by Byron Bay Aikido Club and will be held at Goshinkan Dojo, 46 Melaleuca Drive, Byron Bay.

Saturday March 26th 10.00am – 4.30pm General classes

Sunday March 27th 10.00am – 12.30pm Special weapons class

Cost: Full seminar $55 / $45

1 day: $40 / $35

Per session: $20 / $18

Beginners, intermediate and advanced students are welcome to attend this seminar.

Come meet and train with Michael Williams Sensei, the founder of Goshinkan Dojo.

4. Cheese and crackers for the soul

“A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.” Lao Tzu

Where do life’s attacks come from?

martial-arts-brisbane-self-defenceComparing martial arts in Brisbane? Every now and again I read yet another article about martial art comparisons and which martial art is the most effective. Of particular irritation is the assertion that the non-confrontational arts like aikido are useless in a cage or on the street.

I have two points to make here. Firstly, cage fighting is a purely voluntary pursuit by professionals trying to make a living. It is irrelevant in real life. Secondly, as devastating as a street attack is, only a very small proportion of the Australian population will find themselves the victim of an unprovoked attack on the street.

After some years of Aikido training I have learned enough to know that as soon as there are more than two people attacking at once, there is no time to do anything other than dodge, blend, avoid and if possible – run! If weapons are involved then ‘not being there’ is by far the best, and possibly the only self defence option. Anything else is ego talk!

So where do most of the real life attacks come from?

There is a much greater likelihood of being in conflict with someone you know. For example, an argument with your partner, a confrontation with an ex-partner, a dispute with a family member, a falling out with a friend, conflict at work or harassment at school.

Every day as we go about our business, there is a reasonable chance of encountering an angry driver, a rude shop assistant or dissatisfied customer. Simply going out to a local restaurant for a meal could mean accidentally bumping someone, spilling a drink, or becoming the object of an intoxicated person’s misguided affection and goodwill.

The everyday difficult situation could occur anywhere – at work, at home, at school, on the roads, walking down the street, in a shopping centre, in a car park, or on a bike path.

Attacks don’t always come in the form of punches and kicks. A confronting situation could manifest itself as a difference of opinion, an argument, rudeness, shouting, abuse, derision, staring, silence, intimidation, verbal harassment or cyber bullying.

There may never be a push or a punch and still it can be a very scary experience. There may be no physical contact at all, but still you must be able to defend yourself.

Besides, if there has been no physical contact then you have no right to use physical or martial responses. So what do you do?

This is where people with a fighting mind and no self control run out of options!

Self defence is a lot more than just learning to fight or being able to fend off a random attack. It is about pushing ego aside and learning to cope assertively and peacefully with the other 99% of difficult situations that make up real life.

It is no accident that Aikido is known around the world as the ‘art of peace’. If you are looking at martial arts in Brisbane, Aikido is not only great self defence, it will also equip you for the challenges of real life.

Hurry! last chance to join our March Beginner’s Course

The MARCH 2011 BEGINNER’S COURSE started last night – Tuesday (1st)

If you are looking for martial arts in Brisbane, it is not too late to make the March 2011 intake.

BUT YOU MUST ACT NOW!

This Thursday (3rd) is your last opportunity to start Aikido with us this month. If you miss it, you will have to wait until 5th April.

To join in – simply arrive at our NATHAN dojo at 6.30pm this Thursday evening (3rd)

martial-arts-in-brisbane-emile1Come join us!
For directions go to https://www.griffithaikido.com.au/locations/

Enjoy your 4-week introduction to the Art of Peace in a tranquil bush setting on the Griffith University Nathan Campus. Plenty of free parking!

For everything you need to know to start, download “A Beginner’s Guide” on the right hand side panel of this page. To see what you are missing out on, check out the action videos on this site.

ENROLL BY PAYING ONLINE AT https://www.griffithaikido.com.au/payments/

We are a big club with plenty of friendly instructors. We are open to students and non-students alike, and we encourage females and older people to learn the fascinating art of Aikido.