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Most Aikido training is with a
partner. If you are new to Aikido, your partner will help you through
the technique
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You do not have to be fit to start
Aikido, but the instructor should be told if you have any medical condition
or disability
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Correct clothing for Aikido is a white
judo or karate suit. We do not expect beginners to have this - come in
clothes that allow you to move freely
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The UKA
awards grades, but adults do not show their grades by wearing coloured belts:
someone wearing a white belt could be a complete novice, or a few
weeks away from being awarded a black belt
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No jewellery may be worn when practising
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Aikido
is rooted in Japanese tradition, so some of the things we do can seem
strange at first
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Shoes are never worn on the mat, but
are put on as we step off the mat to keep our feet (and the mat) clean.
Traditional Japanese homes did not have western-style chairs or beds, so
people sat and slept on the floor. It was important to keep the floor
clean at all times
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We follow
traditional Japanese etiquette. Don't worry about it - just copy
everyone else until you pick it up
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For insurance purposes, you will
must join the UKA after two classes
