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Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art based on the traditional Samurai arts.
It is practiced in a non-competitive environment which allows people of all ages and sizes to work together to improve their skills. Many of its long term practitioners continue to practice into their 70s and 80s, and some even take it up at this age.
The art emphasises maintaining a calm and peaceful mind to deal with aggression, redirecting incoming forces to neutralise them. Consequently Aikido is often found to have practical usefulness in situations where it’s important to control someone aggressive whilst minimising harm to them, e.g. police, prison and security work.
Of more relevance to most practitioners is that it can have great benefits for fitness, posture, balance, confidence and mental health.
Aikido in Brecon
Brecon Aikido club was founded in 1995 by Alan Lee. Sensei Lee is a former Olympic weightlifting coach and very powerful aikidoist. In 2016 he turned over the day to day running of the club to Becky and Paul Funnell but he continues to be involved, taking occasional classes and offering guidance.
There are four coaches practicing regularly at the club and others who make occasional guest appearances to teach in their specialist areas, such as traditional Samurai weapons. All coaches are certified under the British Aikido Board’s development programme and checked for suitability via the disclosure barring service. The club’s child protection officer is a serving police officer in the Dyfed Powys Police.
The club is based in the Subud Hall near the Brecon rugby ground.
Training times are 5:30 – 7:00 on Wednesday and Sunday with the Wednesday class typically being more of a beginners’ session.
New starters, aged 12 and up, are welcome any time. If you are interested in junior classes (6-11), or have any queries, please get in touch.
Becky – beckylise@hotmail.com
Paul – pfunnell@gmail.com
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