Train with us
A typical training session consists of:
- warming up exercises
- skill drills developing:
- posture
- footwork and movement
- handwork
- break-falls
(safe ways to fall) - distance judgement
- timing
- technique practice
- sequence of techniques (kata) practice
- freestyle
- warming down
- basic meditation
Please read the
Induction Booklet for New Members
You're welcome to watch a class to get an idea of what we do. When you want to join in, your first lesson is free.
Students have the opportunity to practise with other students and instructors of all grade levels.
Where
Frank Dando's Sports Academy
Rear of 33 Raymond Street,
Ashwood, Victoria 3147,
Australia
- Melways 61 A10
- Google map
- More info
We are near the corner of High Street Road and Huntingdale Road. Turn north into Raymond Street off High Street Road and left into the alleyway after shops. Parking is available on Raymond Street or directly outside the dojo.
When
Tuesday: Beginners from 6.30pm until 8.00pm.
Tuesday: Regulars from 7.30pm until 9.00pm.
Thursday: Regulars from 7.30pm until 9.00pm.
Please arrive 15 minutes early.
How to join
Just come along to a class. After your free lesson, you can sign up for a block of 7 lessons. After that, you can join as a full member.
Everyone who participates needs to fill in an application/indemnity form. If you have time, please print one out and fill it in before you come to class.
Who can join
Currently we only accept students 13 years and older.
For older people, if your health permits, aikido can be practised up to any age.
Neither strength nor flexibility are prerequisites. Each of us is human, with limitations of various sorts. Activities and syllabus can usually be modified to accommodate injuries or disabilities. We want students to learn to use their bodies in safe, respectful and healthy ways.
Fees and membership
Refer to our Fees and membership page.
What to bring
Bring a water bottle or something to drink.
What to wear
- Clean, comfortable and loose fitting clothes that are shorter than ankle/wrist length.
- Clothes should be free of external pockets, loops, buttons or other 'decorations' that, for example, might catch or hurt a finger.
- No jewellery or body piercings
- No shoes on the mat
- Glasses should be secured with a sports strap
- Long finger or toe-nails should be trimmed or taped
- Long hair should be tied back
After your first grading, you are expected to wear a white dogi, or ‘gi’. (If you already have a white aikido or judo dogi, you are welcome to wear it from your first lesson.) Canvas or semi-canvas thickness is necessary, as thin cotton material will tear. An aikido gi can be purchased from martial arts supply stores.
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