Dan Iwama Aikido (2014) James Sowerby, the instructor at Seikatsu Aikido, is a highly experienced and skilled practitioner of Aikido. With a 4th Dan in Iwama Aikido, he has trained under renowned instructors such as Michael Field Sensei, who was designated as the Headmaster of Australasian Iwama Ryu Aikido by the late Morihiro Saito Sensei.
Seikatsu Aikido is located in the suburbs of Melbourne, specifically in Coburg, Pascoe Vale, and Essendon. The club offers a safe and friendly environment for anyone interested in learning Aikido. Aikido is a Japanese self-defence martial art that focuses on using an attacker's energy and aggression to initiate locks, holds, and throws. It incorporates traditional Samurai Ju-Jitsu techniques and values.
The founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba Sensei, adapted the skills and philosophy of the Samurai warrior into the martial art we know today. Aikido is a comprehensive and efficient method of self-defence against both open-handed and weapon attacks.
At Seikatsu Aikido, they welcome individuals of all skill levels and encourage anyone interested to try out some free introductory classes. Learning Aikido at Seikatsu Aikido will not only improve your strength, fitness, and coordination but also boost your self-confidence. Classes are held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at their training facility located at 18 Leo St, Fawkner.
The fees at Seikatsu Aikido are reasonable and flexible. For just $125 per month, members can train as much as they like, with an average of 12 classes per month. This equates to approximately $10 per class. They also offer discounts for families with more than one member.
There are no joining fees or annual fees.
In terms of equipment, a training gi is generally required, which costs around $40. Wooden training swords and staffs range from $25 to $150 each. However, for the free introductory classes, training weapons and uniforms are not necessary.
Seikatsu Aikido takes pride in their Aikido lineage, which can be traced back to Morihei Ueshiba Sensei, the founder of Aikido. Through his teachings and guidance, the club follows the traditional Aikido Iwama School Lineage. This lineage includes Morihiro Saito Sensei, who studied directly under Ueshiba Sensei for 24 years and became known as a weapons specialist in Aikido.
Overall, Seikatsu Aikido provides a welcoming and safe environment for individuals in Melbourne who are interested in learning Aikido. With a focus on self-defence, strength, fitness, and coordination, Seikatsu Aikido is dedicated to helping individuals gain confidence and improve their overall well-being through the practise of Aikido.