Aikido
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NOTE: The final Aikido Class for 2009 will meet on December 1. The class will not meet over the winter break. Classes will resume on January 12, 2010.
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Overview:
Derived from ancient Japanese battlefield techniques, modern aikido is a newer art developed primarily since the middle of the 20th century. Aikido was synthesized by Morehei Ueshiba O’Sensei from several styles of traditional jujitsu (unarmed grappling), sword, and spear martial disciplines. These martial arts were forged into a science of controlling attackers’ strength, momentum, and balance.
Aikido is usually characterized by smooth, effortless, flowing movements that often end with a pin, throw, or joint lock. The purpose of Aikido training is for non-religious spiritual and personal development. Aikido trains people who have to deal with everyday pressures and threats, and is intended to help create people who are simultaneously powerful yet peaceful, neither violent nor fearful. Aikido emphasizes a lifelong path of self development, in which the student learns to cultivate calmness, strength, and self-control in the face of stress, conflict, and dangerous and violent situations.
Meeting times / locations:
Aikido meets from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays in studio 10 of the T-Recs facility. The class is run by Pete Jensen (pjensen@utk.edu); a 3rd degree blackbelt in Aikido.
Fees:
The instructors are not paid for their time, however, club dues are collected to provide for such items as mats and travel expenses. Dues are $45 per semester (Fall, Spring, and Summer) and are due at the beginning of each semester. Payment of dues entitles you to participate in all other classes at no additional charge.
To participate in the club or the class, players will also be required to purchase a gi (the standard aikido uniform). The cost is approximately $35. (Cost may be higher if you require a non-standard gi size)
Guests are welcome to attend two classes before paying dues and purchasing a gi.