South Oxford Community Centre

When we meet

Thursday 8.00-10.00pm
(Additional classes by arrangement)

Contact

Richard Watts
01865 750650 or 07773 982719
richwatts@ntlworld.com

About Our Group

Aikido is a Japanese Martial Art developed by Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969). It is a self-defence system that emphasises circular movements to redirect an attack. The techniques include locks, holds and throws. Effective technique rather than strength make it ideally suited for all - young or old, male or female.

Aikido is used as the basis of many other self-defence systems. Police forces and military organisations, including the Royal Air Force and United States Marines, base their unarmed combat training on Aikido, because of the effectiveness of its techniques. Indeed, of all the martial arts available in Japan, the Tokyo Metropolitan Riot Squad choose to train their officers in Aikido.

Many different styles of Aikido exist today. Shudokan Aikido is of the Yoshinkan style, founded by Gozo Shioda, which emphasises effective technique and is taught in a friendly non-competitive manner.

As well as combat-effective techniques, Aikido provides an excellent tool for personal development - including physical fitness, confidence, self-discipline and courage, as well as less definable mental and spiritual development.

At the Shudokan Aikido Oxford club we believe in teaching our art in a friendly environment and to allow students to develop at their own pace. In a typical class you will be taught how to breakfall safely, how to defend yourself from a number of situations and be encouraged to develop yourself both physically and mentally in a fun and safe way.

The Shudokan Institute of Aikido International has clubs around the UK as well as clubs in Malaysia, Australia, France, Poland and Canada. The Shudokan Aikido Oxford club has fully qualified and insured instructors.

We look forward to meeting and training with you.

"To win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the highest skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the highest skill."

Sun Tsu - The Art of War

About Our Teacher

Sensei Richard Watts has been training in Shudokan Aikido for over seven years and has been a fully qualified instructor with the Shudokan Institute of Aikido International since the beginning of 2004. Sensei Richard has also trained in Iwama style of Aikido as well as Kyokushinkai Karate.