WHAT IS TRAINED IN MEIWAKAN AIKIDO BOSTON
Aikido is the core practice of Meiwakan Aikido, and the style was created by Mickaël Martin, and closely follows the teachings of Tamura Nobuyoshi Shihan. Aikido emphasizes correct movement, breathing, and posture while being attacked either by strikes or grabs. Using a martial arts approach, and not a sports approach, we train how to practically use these techniques in a variety of situations.
Kenjutsu, or techniques practiced with the bokken (wooden sword), are taught regularly to reinforce the core principles of Meiwakan Aikido, such as cutting. Learning to cut correctly without losing balance greatly improves all aspects of your training as the cut, with the sword or open hand, is the end of many techniques.
Jojutsu, or techniques practiced with the jo (wooden staff), are integral for learning proper movement. In Meiwakan training, if you can learn to move properly with the Jo, your movement in all other capacities will improve.
Iaijtutsu, or techniques practiced with the an Iai (sword with shealth), emphasizes how to properly draw a sword during stillness as well as movement. If trained correctly, training with the iai develops the capacity to move very quickly without telegraphing your intent.
Taiso classes focus on general strength, conditioning, and flexibility. These classes are offered once a month, typically the first Sunday of every month (see Calendar for up to date schedule).
TYPICAL CLASS STRUCTURE
Warm ups, or Aikitaiso, typically occupy the first 30 minutes of class. Warm ups include kokyu (breathing), stretching, and ukemi (falling practice).
In Meiwakan Aikido, we view Aikitaiso as Aikido. Special focus is given to ukemi, as it is a core component of our practice.
We often cover core principles of Aikido through small exercises, or games, to develop understanding.
Often these cover techniques of kobujutsu and help develop one's body.
Regardless of what is being covered (Aikido, Kenjutsu, etc.), the majority of class is comprised of training technique.
Typically techniques are shown, briefly explained, and students allowed to work in pairs or small groups. After some time, further demonstration may be done to refine points.
At the end of class, students are given the chance to practice jiyu waza (free training), based on the lesson.