Aikido is………………

A highly sophisticated form of Japanese Budo (martial way) based on the ancient fighting arts of the Samurai warrior.

Aikido (lit. the Way of Harmony) was developed in the first half of the last century by Morihei Ueshiba, a true genius, who synthesised his martial skills into a holistic art for mind-body-spirit development. Not just a means of self-defense but a practice for transformation of self.

Aikido Practice……

Is highly disciplined  and involves initially the study of body movement and control, also the dynamics of interaction between attacker and defender. Aikido begins and ends with respect and incorporates a fairly strict system of etiquette.

The aikido repertoire involves not only locks and throws from an empty handed situation, but  alsoincludes the study of the Japanese sword (bokken) and the short staff (jo).

Why Makoto?…..

Makoto means truth and sincerity and was regarded as the highest virtue of the Samurai since all other virtues ;honour ,respect, loyalty etc. derive from this. Truth to oneself ensures the retention of “beginners mind” and avoids egotism. Truth is also reality and the only reality is now, so makoto is also about living in the present moment.

Apologies…enough philosophising!

Yoshinkan Aikido

Is said to reflect the Pre WW2 teachings of Ueshiba (O’sensei), this being the period when Gozo Shioda Kancho was his student.

Yoshinkan aikido is very direct with a more martial flavour than some styles and emphasises strong posture and powerful centred body movements.

Whilst we focus on the yoshinkan style for basic techniques (kihon) we do unashamedly take our influence from all styles and will happily mix and match if it feels right.    

The Sensei

Your teachers at the Makotokan are:-

Tony Hughes – 3^rd Dan

Russell Salter – 1^st Dan

Class Times :

Wednesdays  - 8.30 to 10.00 p.m

Fridays           - 8.00 to 9.30 pm

Cost :

Currently our mat fees are £6 per session. In due course we will establish a block payment system which will result in a marginal saving.

Dojo Location:

Click on the link below for a map of the local area. The dojo is on Carshalton Road at the junction with Manor Park Road, opposite B&Q superstore.

Location Map

There is limited street parking outside the dojo but plenty of options in various side roads off Carshalton Road.

Clothing for Practice

Dogi, the white practice uniforms may be purchased from sensei for a reasonable price. Beginners may start wearing suitable loose fitting clothing, say tracksuit bottoms and a teeshirt.

Contacts:

For further details or just a friendly chat call us on these numbers:-

Tony – 0208 393 7823

Russell – 07834 323605

Or E-mail us on:-

Makoto_aikido@yahoo.co.uk