It’s been a very focussed year for our members this past year, all training very hard to improve and develop across the board. In addition to giving it their all in class, students have been attending Aikido seminars with many world-renowned teachers, both in this country and by travelling abroad. The hard work has been paying off all year, and just last month, we had five students achieve new belt promotions, with others soon to follow.

Our pro-active approach to cross-training in other martial arts is as strong as ever, and this last year we are pleased to have had members achieve their black belts in Karate and in Filipino Modern Arnis.

We are also very lucky to have had different styles of Aikido open new classes locally. With the Aikikai style class in Woolpit, and the Yoshinkan style class in Bury St Edmunds, aikido is more available in the area than it’s ever been. It’s also an excellent opportunity for our existing students to broaden their understanding of the art by training with Sensei’s who’s differing experience and emphasis can offer a whole new perspective on things our students are already doing.

The year ahead looks similarly promising, with some big-name seminars lined up both locally and nationally, and some members hoping to join Inori Aikikai on a trip to train in Romania in November.

All this together means there has never been a better time to be practicing Aikido in Suffolk, and of course we’d like you to join us.  Newcomers are always welcome to come along for a free trial of this dynamic Japanese martial art. No previous experience is necessary. Classes run at the Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre in Stowmarket on Sunday nights, from 7:00-8:30pm.