Testimonial
This is a page where testimonials from members can be added.
Casee Wilson
Find out more about Casee at her web site
When I first started going to York Aikido at the suggestion of a friend, it was not without some trepidation. My last nervous venture into martial arts had been to a super-macho jui-jitsu club in Liverpool back in my university days, where I was the only woman, and the only person under 5'6. So I was apprehensive to say the least. It's hard being a woman doing a martial art. For one thing, the people you train with tend to come in two categories: Strong and keen to show it, or scared to throw you in case they break you. Neither is conducive to a steady learning curve for the beginner.
My experiences at York Aikido have been a refreshing eye-opener into a less aggressive world, in which participants have nothing to prove. From the first session, I have been made to feel part of the team, and other aikidoka have been quick to advise, help, and allow themselves to be thrown around by a newbie learning the ropes. Also, there are (miracle of miracles) other women training.
A typical session begins with kneeling (se-za) - a quiet moment of respect and contemplation of the forthcoming lesson. Then a thorough warm-up, never skimped on, and one of the reasons I can still move the next day! Then unsoku (foot movements) and also hand blades. Regulars are always on hand to help the beginners with these, and although I found the first couple of times daunting, I soon learned the moves, and now can even count them out in Japanese! We then move on to breakfalls, an essential part of the training - since you spend a lot of time in the air, learning to land properly is vital. Then techniques, and finally some randori - light combat using rubber tanto (knives) - this is the most fun, and again, you are never expected to work beyond your current level.
I did my first grading (red belt, 8th Kyu) after about six weeks. Gradings are held regularly at the York club, so you always feel that you are learning and progressing towards something. Gradings are relatively informal, although more formal than a typical class, and they are a great excuse to go out for a curry after training.
In short, if you want to keep fit, learn a new martial art, spend some time with some really good people to train with, and enjoy yourself, I firmly recommend coming along to the club.