13/04/2026
"A report published in 2025 by OnSide, a national youth charity, finds that 76% of young people spend most of their free time on screens and almost half (48%) spend most of their free time in their bedrooms."
Source: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c62je1g000eo
We aren't the only answer. But we are an answer and for many a good one. Get in the Dojo and get active. Good habits for life with positive friendships & role models.
The surprising reality of how teenage girls still define themselves
Despite strides in feminism, why do teen girls still seem to view themselves through the lens of boys?
12/04/2026
Coming to Your First Class?
What should I wear?
Something sporty that covers your knees and elbows.
What happens when I arrive?
Someone may greet you—unless everyone is already on the mat. Just take a seat and we’ll come over as soon as the current class finishes. You’ll be asked to fill in a membership form, but there’s no pressure to join until you’ve tried a few classes.
What happens in class?
We begin with a traditional line-up, followed by a warm-up, then partner work. Training is collaborative—everyone helps each other.
Where is the class?
📍 St James Church, Romney Avenue, Lockleaze, Bristol, BS7 9TD
Is there parking?
Yes—free on-street parking nearby.
Further Q&A for New Students
Thinking about starting but feeling unsure? Here are some common questions:
Is it hard?
It can be technically challenging, and no one is ever “perfect”—we’re all learning. With the right partner, training can be physically engaging, but because it’s collaborative, you can always work within your own limits.
Does it hurt?
No. Most people feel great after training—both mentally and physically. While Aikido includes throws, injuries are very rare.
Will I be the only beginner?
Maybe—but it doesn’t matter. Everyone is learning, and we’re always happy to have new training partners.
Am I too old?
Not at all. Our current students include people in their 70s. You can always train within your own boundaries.
I’m not fit enough—can I still join?
Yes. Aikido can help improve your fitness, and you can train at your own pace.
Can girls and boys do it?
Absolutely. Aikido isn’t about size or strength—it’s for everyone. Each person brings their own strengths and develops in their own way.
Is it expensive?
No. Junior classes start from £22 per month, and adult classes are £30 per month. You can also pay as you go to try a few sessions first.
Still unsure?
The best way to find out is simple—come along and give it a try.
03/02/2026
Light reading...but critical thinking. The difference between making shapes and cultivating an aiki body.
Yin and Yang, Heaven-Earth-Man, in this imagery from Dan Harden.
In his lecture to the Byakko Shinkokai in the 1960's, Morihei Ueshiba specifically defined Aikido for the audience.
He did not define Aikido as love.
He did not define Aikido as peace.
He did not define Aikido as conflict resolution.
He did not define Aikido as personal development.
He did define Aikido as a way of dedication to the Japanese Imperial family, and as a method of creating a worldwide utopia under the aegis of Japan and the Japanese Imperial family.
He also defined Aikido technically, as Takemusu Aiki and Heaven-Earth-Man.
For the first, Morihei Ueshiba defined "Takemusu" as the training of attractive force between opposing forces within oneself - Yin and Yang, In and Yo...Heaven and Earth - which is the most basic expression of opposing forces, gravity and the ground.
For the second, Heaven-Earth-Man was the basic, and primary, model by which Morihei Ueshiba described his training methodology, as discussed in "Aikido and the Structure of the Universe":
https://www.aikidosangenkai.org/blog/aikido-structure-universe/
As defined in the lecture above:
合気道は天地人和合の道と理なり。
“Aikido is the Way and Principle of harmonizing Heaven, Earth and Man.”
Who's the man? Well... it's Morihei Ueshiba himself - oneself, in other words:
"In Aiki, Yin and Yang move... within...this old man's body" - Morihei Ueshiba
25/01/2026
Horfield & Lockleaze Community Awards 2026
Delighted to pick up a bit of recognition at this event on Tuesday.
This was in the Coaching Category. I'll include comments from those that nominated but I'd also like to say that I see this is an award for the whole club.
Our welcoming atmosphere is highlighted which means everyone contributes to this but I'd really like to acknowledge my junior helpers who frequently take time out from their own practice to help others facing greater challenges. Great work & I am very proud of you.
As the comments point out, we don't have specialist classes. We have regular classes which we do our utmost to make accessible for everyone.
This for me really shouts "Community". Everyone belongs and gets included.
Anyway...Kay took the picture....as usual, helping from the side. Hopefully the professional ones will be on-line before too long.
Heres the feedback that was read out on the evening. It does bring to my mind those that have helped me along the the way that have really influenced me and inspired me.
*****
"My son is Neurodiverse and we found Daren through Ignite Sports with a taster session . Daren has been SO supportive , he’s always calm, giving clear instruction and takes his time with all of the children who attends. Our lad now attends weekly , his confidence has grown and it’s a joy to see him enjoy something he can do independently. He has just completed his first grading! He (&we) were so proud. Couldn’t have done it without Daren.
**
Daren works tirelessly to encourage the local community to engage and enjoy the practice of Aikido. It's open to everyone and is a very friendly, welcoming club. When the hall had to close Daren made sure he could continue for the locals and he has built thriving children and adults classes. It's clear he's popular, you can see students progressing through the grades and making great friendships.
**
Daren runs Aikido classes in Lockleaze. My 11-year-old autistic son always feels welcomed and included there, which is pretty special because it's not a class specifically for neurodivergent kids. The understanding among everyone feels completely natural and it is modeled by Daren. It’s so so hard to find a place like this.
16/01/2026
The hardest thing about Aikido?
Walking in the door. So many new students contact us....but then don't come along. It might not be for you....but it might ....and the only way to find out is to step inside.
Don't let fear hold you back in life....especially of us....we really are very nice ;-)
05/11/2025
Last week of classes before junior gradings!
Are you ready ?
26/01/2026
05/11/2025