Macclesfield Aikido Genbukan is a well-established martial arts school located in Macclesfield, a town in the northwest of England. With over forty years of experience, the club offers Aikido classes for both senior and junior students. Aikido is a highly effective martial art that originated in Japan and is now practised worldwide. It incorporates techniques from Jujitsu, as well as mastery of the sword and staff.
Aikido's unique combination of throws and pins makes it an excellent form of self-defence. It is also known for its ability to handle multiple attackers without relying on physical strength, making it suitable for people of all ages and genders.
What sets Aikido apart is its focus on harmony and energy. Practitioners learn to gain an awareness of their movements in relation to others and their surroundings. The name Aikido itself reflects this philosophy. “Ai” means harmony, “ki” means energy, and “do” means the study or path.
Through the study of Aikido, practitioners develop the ability to move and redirect energy, creating a sense of harmony.
At an advanced level, Aikido masters may appear to possess almost magical abilities, effortlessly overcoming opponents and centred like the eye of a hurricane amidst chaos. This spiritual-like centering of power is achieved through years of training and dedication.
Macclesfield Aikido Genbukan is affiliated with the British Aikido Federation and is a member of the Joint Aikido Council, ensuring the highest standards of teaching and training. The club offers classes for beginners every Thursday at Hollinhey Primary School in Sutton.
These beginners' classes are open to all, regardless of previous experience or fitness level. Instructors assess each student and tailor the training to their needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable learning environment. Aikido is a practical martial art that does not rely on physical strength, making it accessible to people of all ages, sizes, and genders.
Training in Aikido not only develops practical self-defence skills but also offers numerous other benefits. Practitioners can achieve a calm confidence, mental well-being, and a sense of empowerment through their practise. It is a martial art that supports each individual's self-development on various levels.
The chief instructors at Macclesfield Aikido Genbukan are Mike Thomson, 2nd Dan, and Technical Director John Stephens, 3rd Dan. The first class is 5, including four weeks of insurance, and subsequent classes are 4. Membership in the British Aikido Federation and one year's insurance costs 35.
To register interest or to find further information about the club, interested individuals can visit their website or submit their details online. The club also provides additional resources, including grading documentation, information for parents of junior students, and grading results forms.
Macclesfield Aikido Genbukan is dedicated to providing high-quality Aikido training and welcoming individuals of all backgrounds and abilities. Joining the club offers a unique opportunity to learn a martial art that emphasises harmony and self-development while gaining practical skills for self-defence.