GoRyuKai Aikido Yoshinkan (Chichester) is a martial arts club located in Chichester, West Sussex. The club specialises in teaching Aikido Yoshinkan, an effective form of self-defence suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness levels.
The club is founded and led by Sensei Malcolm Crawford, a highly experienced martial artist holding a 7th Dan Yoshinkan ranking. Sensei Crawford has been involved in Aikido since 1970, initially training under Edd Stratton and later being instructed by Yu Sensei from the Honbu Dojo in Japan. Throughout his 40 years of practise, Sensei Crawford has trained with senior Honbu instructors and the late Kancho Sensei (Gozo Shioda Soke), the founder of Yoshinkan Aikido. He has also taught at numerous national and international seminars and was graded to Rokudan by Shioda Kancho.
The club conducts its classes in the New Dojo, situated in the Jubilee Halls building behind New Park Cinema at New Park Centre, Chichester. Classes take place every Tuesday from 8pm to 10pm, with beginners welcome to join. The training encompasses various techniques and self-defence strategies taught within the Yoshinkan Aikido curriculum.
Prospective students often have questions about the club, and GoRyuKai Aikido Yoshinkan (Chichester) provides a comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section on their social media and club directories.
1. Do I need to have trained in martial arts before?
Answer: No, absolutely anyone can learn Aikido, regardless of prior martial arts experience. The club welcomes complete beginners, as well as individuals with previous Aikido or martial arts training.
2. Will Aikido benefit my health and fitness?
Answer: Yes, Aikido is an excellent way to improve both physical and mental well-being. Regular practise can enhance strength, flexibility, stamina, and overall fitness levels. Additionally, Aikido cultivates focus and presence of mind, which can positively impact daily life beyond the dojo.
3. Is Aikido suitable for women?
Answer: Yes, Aikido is suitable for individuals of all genders and ages. This martial art emphasises technique, balance, and timing rather than relying on strength or size. In fact, the founder of Yoshinkan, Gozo Shioda, was a small man himself, proving that Aikido is well-suited for those with a smaller stature.
The club's classes are affordably priced, with a usual monthly fee of 50. For convenience, weekly payment arrangements can also be made if needed. There is an additional annual insurance/licence fee of 50 to cover student and organisational obligations and risks, which will be explained during the registration process.
Joining GoRyuKai Aikido Yoshinkan (Chichester) is straightforward. Prospective members can contact the club to express their interest or simply attend a class with their insurance/licence fee and appropriate training attire. The club aims to accommodate new members and start their training promptly.
For individuals curious about what to wear during training, GoRyuKai Aikido Yoshinkan (Chichester) suggests wearing loose and comfortable clothing at the beginning. However, as Aikido is a formal discipline, it is customary to wear a dogi, the traditional practise uniform, once committed to practising Aikido.
In their first few sessions, new members can expect to learn foundational Aikido techniques, including throws, joint locks, and proper body movement. The classes promote a safe and inclusive learning environment, allowing students to progress at their own pace under the guidance of Sensei Crawford and experienced instructors.