What is Aikido?
Aikido is a non-aggressive form of martial art that is concerned with using an opponent’s momentum and strength against him/her – usually resulting in throws or pins. The aim is to defend yourself without causing injury to yourself or your opponent.

The techniques themselves tend to consist of flowing/circular movements with the aim of avoiding the attack and redirecting your partner’s energy.

All movements are practised with a partner (we prefer to use the term ‘partner’ rather than ‘opponent’). It is this approach which appeals to many people who may be tired or put off with the usual approach of performing movements alone or in a set format such as a ‘Kata’. Working with a partner allows you to apply practically the technique you have just been shown, and to feel for yourself how the technique works.

For a detailed history of Aikido and its founder please visit our ‘About’ page.
[back to top]

Who can train in Aikido?
Anyone can practice Aikido, whatever size, shape, weight, gender you are – the emphasis is on your ability to blend and control your opponent using timing and technique, not strength and fitness. The more graceful and relaxed you are, the more impressive your Aikido will be. [back to top]

Where and when are the training sessions?
Our club meets every Monday and Wednesday at the Stratford Leisure & Visitor Centre, Stratford-upon-Avon 7.30- 9.30pm. [back to top]

Do I have to be very fit?
No. You can train in Aikido regardless of fitness level but a certain degree of fitness will be beneficial. The idea of aikido is to work in harmony with your partner(s) and use their own speed and momentum against them. Often being very strong can be a disadvantage as it is easy to use power instead of a good technique. [back to top]

What does a typical session consist of?
A typical Aikido session at Stratford Phoenix is 2 hours long and during the session we complete stretching and warm up exercises before practising and learning our aikido movements. [back to top]

What do I wear to my first training session?
Try to wear loose fitting clothes which cover the majority of your body, allowing you full freedom of movement. For the girls: try not to wear tight fitting or skimpy clothing as this may be seen as disrespectful and impractical when jumping and rolling around. Some techniques require you to take hold of a sleeve or lapel, so bare arms are not ideal. On the training mat we wear neither shoes nor socks - barefoot only. [back to top]

Is there an age limit to train at Stratford Phoenix Aikido?
Providing you are over 16 there is no limit on age. When practising aikido you will commonly come across people aged from 16 to over 60, possibly due to the gentle and non forceful nature of Aikido movements. [back to top]

What will the cost of training be?
Our advantage at Stratford Phoenix is that we are a small and friendly club with an excellent instructor giving frequent 1-to-1 tuition to everyone on the mat. For the quality of teaching we feel that our session cost is a very good price. Please contact us for more details of fees.
[back to top]

Does Aikido include the use of weapons?
Weapons are an intrinsic part of Aikido training, but we do not use them all of the time; many of our hand and body movements and techniques stem from their use. This mainly includes Bokken (the sword) and Jo (the staff).

As time goes on you will be shown how most of the basic movements and theories can be applied to the use of weapons and vice versa. [back to top]

What etiquette you expect from students?
Etiquette is a necessary part of our Aikido. We have certain practices, such as bowing to each other, which show both discipline and respect for our peers and senior grades. We like to think our level of etiquette as sufficient for purpose whilst still allowing us to enjoy our Aikido. [back to top]

When do I take gradings?
We have grading sessions 3 times a year - March, July and November. Students will be put forward whom are ready and capable of taking a grading, who have practised regularly, and who have shown aptitude. [back to top]

Are gradings compulsory?
Gradings are not compulsory but do serve as good motivation for everyone. They help to add structure to your learning and provide a tangible goal for your efforts. [back to top]

Can I train with a medical condition?
This is very dependent on the condition itself. As long as the medical condition is not life-threatening to yourself or others you shouldn’t have a problem. If you are having problems with a movement then there is no pressure to take part. Many people have issues with joints or limbs and simply adjust their Aikido to suit. It is advisable to tell your sensei on arrival if you have a problem, so that we are aware of any condition which may limit or hinder your Aikido. [back to top]

Is Stratford Phoenix Aikido Part of an association?
Yes. We are part of Yama Arashi UK, and are affiliated to Coventry Phoenix Aikido Club. The Principal Instructor at the Coventry club is Sensei Barbara Moss, head of Yama Arashi UK.

Please see our ‘About’ page for more information on the association. [back to top]

Am I insured?
When training with Stratford Phoenix Aikido you will be covered by insurance provided by our governing association: Yama Arashi UK. [back to top]