History
The art of Aikido is about 700 years old, and more modern techniques were developed by O'Sensie Morihei Ueshiba in the 1930s.  Until 1948, it was a closed martial art only taught to Samurai and Sho Gun families within Japan.  However, it was first introduced to the UK by Sensei Kenshiro Abbe in 1955 and has gradually become more widely known, although still not as popular as Karate.

Facilities and Equipment Required
The practitioner wears a tunic knows as a Gi, usually white in colour with different coloured belts depending on the grade reached and no shoes are worn.  The practice area must be matted, clean and airy with a temperature of about 15°C.  The only equipment used during practice is a wooden Bokken simulating a sword and Jo staff, about 5ft in length.  Students practice about twice a week and the sessions last between 1-2 hours.

Benefits of participating
Aikido teaches harmony between students and self-defence against almost any form of attack.  It is also very disciplined and has strict etiquette.  Children as young as 8 can start learning and there is no upper age limit for adults.  O'Sensei Ueshiba was still practising and teaching right up until he died at the age of 82.

Variations
There are five styles of Aikido.  Traditional Aikido was the original style and then other variations developed, namely tomiki, Yoshinkan and Ki.  These styles vary only slightly in their applications although the principles are all the same

Contact Details:
http://www.aikido-baa.org.uk/