FAQs

Do I need to be fit before joining?

No it isn’t necessary. All our classes are safe and by joining our sessions, your fitness will improve and get stronger with training.

Is there any competition in Aikido?

Well the general perception of Aikido is that there is no competition. But there are some styles of Aikido which have limited competitions. What is important to remember is that Aikido is a discipline not a sport, the concept of winning or losing is not in the teaching. Indeed, Aikido is based on harmony, the training emphasises on helping others and unite together with a positive attitude and mindset. 

Some practitioners are wearing a black dress during practice, why?

The ‘black dress’ you are referring is actually a large pair of black trousers which is called a Hakama in Japanese. In olden days, Samurais were wearing a hakama as part of their garment with a benefit for covering their feet during battles, which would provide an advantage against enemies. The Hakama is worn from 2nd Kyu grading or to some schools from Shodan (black belt).

I do not have Martial Arts Gi (uniform), can I train with my jogging outfit?

If you are new to Aikido, acquiring a Martial Art Gi (uniform) is quite important. wearing a Jogging outfit is very impractical when practicing with strong grapplings techniques, hence I recommend for safety to wear a white Martial Art Gi.

But, if you are new to Aikido, you may wear loose jogging trousers and T-Shirt on your first lesson, so you could decide, if you wish to practice with us.

Martial Arts gis can be purchased in sports shops such as Decathlon or ordered online via Amazon. We would recommend a good quality Gis if you want to use your Gi frequently.