(* that’s karate crossed with ballroom dancing…)
By Steve Margolis
Ki Aikido is a martial art unlike any other. ‘Ki’ is a Japanese word which means ‘life energy’ (just like the ‘Chi’ in ‘Tai Chi’). ‘Aikido’ means ‘the way of harmony with life’.
Despite being an effective form of self-defence, Ki Aikido is performed without any aggression whatsoever and classes are fun, friendly and non-competitive. This is because Ki Aikido develops the natural power that we all have when our minds and bodies are co-ordinated. This power has little to do with physical strength and so Ki Aikido can be enjoyed by men and women of all ages (my mother was well into her 60s when she was awarded her black belt). Visually, the art is graceful and dynamic and has been described as a cross between karate and ballroom dancing! Practising Ki Aikido is good for your health, keeps you fit, teaches calmness and relaxation and, most importantly, helps you maintain a positive attitude to life.
My own encounter with Ki Aikido started in 1980 when I answered an advert in ‘Time Out’ and went with a friend to a weekend workshop in Ki. The workshop was advertised as a way to increase coordination of mind and body and improve balance. I thought that it might improve my roller-skating which I had recently taken up. I was absolutely blown away by the simple principles and tests that we were taught and the changes that it brought out in me. I couldn’t understand why we didn’t learn this stuff at school as it would have made such a difference to my academic (and football) career if we had. I went on to join the Ki Aikido club the very next week and have never looked back. I am now a 6th Dan, Black Belt (and have never roller-skated since).
It isn’t possible to understand how the testing method works and how the principles of Ki lead to the benefits mentioned above by reading alone. You have to experience the classes. I have started a new club which runs every Thursday evening in Chartridge. You are all invited to come along and I’m sure you’ll learn something interesting if you do. The atmosphere is not at all intimidating and beginners are always welcome.
Classes are at Chartridge Village Hall (Reading Rooms), Chartridge Lane, Chartridge, HP5 2TN. Children 7-13 yrs: Thursdays from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm – Cost: £7 per class. Adults: Thursdays from 7:30 to 9:30 pm – Cost: £10 per class.
Clothing: Wear a judo kit or loose, comfortable clothing and please remember to bring flip-flops, sandals or slippers.
Annual membership of the Ki Federation of Great Britain is compulsory and covers the cost of insurance.
Just turn up or phone me on 07813 108644 for more information.