Belfast Shodokan Aikido

Belfast Shodokan Aikido is a martial art and style of aikido that was founded in 1967 by Kenji Tomiki. It places a strong emphasis on free-form randori sparring and a balance between randori and stylized kata training. The style encourages students to participate in actual shiai, competitive randori, although it is not compulsory. Classes start with physical exercises to improve motor skills and physical coordination, and then introduce basic martial arts principles of movement. Students are then taught the techniques of aikido, with a focus on cooperation and teamwork, and a sense of internalized self-discipline. The club has been dedicated to teaching aikido for over three decades and follows a grading syllabus under the auspices of Hombu Dojo, Japan.