Belfast Shodokan Aikido is a martial arts school and sports club located in Belfast, Ireland. The club focuses on Shodokan Aikido, a style of aikido founded by Kenji Tomiki in 1967. Shodokan Aikido specifically emphasises free-form randori sparring, setting it apart from other styles of aikido.
At Belfast Shodokan Aikido, the training method consists of a balance between randori and kata training, along with various training drills that are specific to both randori and aikido development in general. While participation in competitive randori is encouraged, it is not mandatory.
Upon joining the club, members first focus on physical exercises that aim to improve motor skills and physical coordination. They are then taught how to fall without injuring themselves before moving on to learning the basic principles of movement in martial arts. Instructors at the club guide members in developing their aikido techniques and encourage cooperation and teamwork. More experienced students assist newer ones, allowing for a sense of internalised self-discipline to be developed.
Belfast Shodokan Aikido has been coaching students in the art of aikido for over three decades and follows a grading syllabus that is recognised by Hombu Dojo in Japan. Additionally, the club operates as a not-for-profit organisation.
Classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 19:30 to 21:30 at Courtney Hall Scout Hall, 76a Cregagh Road, Belfast, BT6 9EQ. Beginners are always welcome to join.
The class structure at Belfast Shodokan Aikido includes a warm-up session that focuses on foot and hand movements. Basic exercises, known as Kihon Waza, aim to establish correct distance and eye contact, simulate attacks for defensive practise, and develop pushing and neutralising techniques. Training also includes breakfall techniques, including back, side, and front falls, as well as flip techniques.
Students also learn new techniques through a mix of teaching and practise sessions. Embu training involves performing the same kata at progressively faster speeds. Randori training includes timing opportunity training, light resistance from uke (the attacker), and full resistance with counters. Randori competitions may include tanto or toshu randori, as well as enbu, where pairs are judged on their kata.
Belfast Shodokan Aikido aims to provide classes that are down-to-earth, diverse, interesting, and fun. The art of aikido is known to be relatively gentle on the body compared to other martial arts, making it suitable for people of all genders and ages. Ultimately, the best way to determine if aikido is right for you is to attend a class and try it out for yourself. Get started by visiting our website and checking out the class schedule.