Aikido of Northampton: Aikido Training

Gaia throws Rachel Aikido is taught through demonstration and practice. Although the final goal of Budo is personal transformation, philosophical and spiritual discussion is rare in the dojo. A technique is demonstrated by the instructor (sensei) and students then pair up to practice it with each other. Each student works at his or her own level, alternating as uke (attacker) and nage (one who receives the attack). Both roles are equally important.

Aikido training naturally develops strength, stamina, and flexibility, but the techniques do not depend on strength for effectiveness. Since Aikido movements focus on effective utilization of the whole body, great power can be developed by accuracy and practice, regardless of physical strength. Men, women, and children of all ages can practice aikido. Tom

At Northampton Aikikai, all members of the dojo practice together in mixed classes which integrate basic techniques and advanced concepts in a way that includes each member of the class. In this setting, a intermediate level student may be working for ten minutes with an advanced blackbelt and then for another ten with a beginner. Working with students of different ages and levels benefits everyone's practice and increases our ability to work with the energy of many different people.

Read a reflection on the practice of Aikido by dojo member Gaia Thurston-Shaine