Testimonials
"My experience with Chippenham Aikido has been amazing and I really enjoy the training and meeting up with like-minded people who want to keep fit, learn new skills and have some fun.
Richard is an excellent teacher, being very patient with the students and is always happy to share his knowledge. I originally came to the club as had wanted to learn a martial art for many years, but for many reasons never got round to it, but as I'm getting on a bit, one that was more defensive and not overly competitive. I'm glad I did join 2 years ago as it has met my expectations and more - people and nice and friendly, we have a bit of a laugh, keeps me fit whilst at the same time I'm learning a new skill. It has built my confidence back up, enabled me to socialise more and to become stronger overall. Classes are relaxed but there is always a willingness to learn and Richard goes out of his way to help and that pervades the whole club who are all willing to share what they know. For me I was a bit apprehensive when I first started as it seemed I was useless and was concerned I was going t damage myself, but you quickly get over that and after a while it becomes more like second nature”
- Steve
"I joined Chippenham & Devizes Aikido Club after a long pause with the martial art, and I was really warmly welcomed by everyone. The sessions were fun and challenging at the same time.
Initially, I didn't put much emphasis on grading or levels, but Richard was kindly and gently encouraging to test my skills and it is now a huge boost to my confidence.
I most enjoy training with all levels and abilities, and at the same time being in an inclusive and friendly environment.
I was attracted to aikido as a young girl as it's a gentle form of movement where you learn whole body awareness through contact and energy transfer. It's non-combative and mindful. The purpose is not to fight or destroy but to find harmony.
As a young girl, I struggled with scoliosis and the aikido movements helped and aligned my spine entirely. The calm breathing exercises help me stay grounded and centred.
Win-win :)"
- Suzie
"The Chippenham Aikido club is very welcoming, and a safe place to train.
The teaching is delivered in a light-hearted, generous, but focused manner. Gradings are offered, but always done at the pupil's pace.
Generally, Aikido is good for maintaining flexibility, and keeping the heart pumping.
I very much enjoy the club's ethos of: don't injure yourself, don t injure anyone else, and if possible, try to remember something.
And I think this explains why there are so many longstanding members of the club."
- Dave
"I felt very welcome and encouraged, and I joined because a friend of was already practicing. The things I enjoy the most is the instructors' suggestions and the learning process.
Since I practice, l'm fitter and I release stress. The atmosphere is very friendly and extremely inclusive, absolutely for everyone. The instructors and very, very patient and consistent in their teaching.
Aikido is a nice way to build strength, resistance, improve balance and movements, and get confidence. You can come and watch before trying, and anyway each level has the appropriate level of complexity, and what now looks beyond your reach will be perfectly normal in a few months.
Come to have a look, we all started from zero, we know how you might feel as a beginner.
I started just to try it out, l enjoy it now beyond all my expectations."
- Riccardo