When did you start Ki Aikido?
The first time I started Ki Aikido was from 1996-2000 at the Piccadilly club with Sensei Bob Fletcher. I took 10 years out, and restarted in 2010 with my son, who was then 12 years old.
What made you want to try Ki Aikido?
In 1996 I was sitting on my own at home and my now wife had gone out to do Aikido. I did not know what this was, and after a few weeks I was intrigued to find out, so went along to find out more about it.
What do you enjoy most about Aikido?
I enjoy getting thrown or should I say sometimes launched across the mat. It’s wonderful learning an art that is beautiful to do, when I get it right.
How do you benefit from learning Aikido off of the mat?
Ki Aikido helps you develop a level of calmness and confidence. Off the mat, this calm feeling helps me with challenging situations such as meetings with senior managers at work. We learn about the One Point as a beginner, and this feeling helps in my daily life.
Describe Aikido in 3 words
Joyous, thought-provoking, exhilarating.
What is your favourite Aikido exercise and technique?
My favourite exercise is using the turning movement of tenkan. Whilst your body is moving backwards as you turn, you have a forward feeling.
My favourite technique is all projection kokyunages.
How has teaching in your club helped your Aikido?
Teaching makes me think about what I do in my aikido, in a way that you don’t normally analyse, unless you are trying to explain it to someone else.
What advice do you have for anyone thinking about trying Ki Aikido?
- It’s a bit of physical activity
- It’s a bit of intellectual activity
- It’s a bit of social activity
- It’s a bit of fun
Sensei Alistair Macknight
St. Alban’s Ki Aikido Club