John Harper – 5th Kyu
I am truly lucky to have found such a welcoming and friendly Aikido Club. I feel humbled every session that I have participated in, learning from such experienced and skilled aikidoka. I would like to thank Pete, Haley and Tony specifically for their expert direction and Bryan for making the long journey down from Scotland to facilitate the grading. Also, thank you to everyone else for showing me patience and helping me along the way to 5th kyu.
Through Aikido, I feel I am learning more about myself both physically and mentally. In the past, I have found it hard some weeks to ‘fit’ Aikido classes into my busy week with work pressures and life taking over. However, I have begun to discover that Aikido is the antidote to the stresses of life and is good for my mental health.
I am hoping that as time goes on, I will learn to relax more and feel more in tune with uke’s energy instead of trying to use my own strength. Either way I am looking forward to continuing my Aikido journey with you all.
Yaya Bodian – 5th Kyu
My journey into Aikido began in June 2024, sparked by simple curiosity. I still vividly recall that first ten-minute walk to the dojo. My mind was crowded with questions and a lingering edge of nervousness: What would the session be like? How physically demanding would it be? Could I even make it through the hour?
As those initial weeks turned into months, my understanding of the art began to shift. I realized that Aikido isn’t a contest of muscle, but a study of posture, movement, and relaxation. I learned that true power comes from “un-learning” the urge to use strength and instead learning to blend. Of course, understanding this concept is one thing; practicing it is another. I now realize that harmonizing these elements is a lifelong pursuit that requires patience and steady discipline.
I am deeply grateful to be part of this club and to train alongside such dedicated individuals. The dojo has become more than just a place to exercise; it is a community of support.
My sincere thanks to Peter, Bryan, Hayley, Tony, Oz, Dave B, Dave D, William, Richard, John, and Desmond for your guidance, your patience, and for teaching me what it means to stay relaxed.