Bristol South Aikido Dojo

"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?

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?
📍 Bristol South Aikido Dojo, Fortfield Road, Hengrove, Bristol, BS14 9NX

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.

Over on the Rovers side of town.

Hopefully, we provide the same service in our Hengrove Dojo.

New Year. New Skills. New You!🎉
This January 2026, make your resolution stick - join Bristol South Aikido Dojo!🥋

Open to all ages from 5 upwards, all backgrounds and abilities welcome🤝 Whether you’re completely new or returning to martial arts after a break, you’ll find an inclusive, friendly environment where everyone belongs🫶

✔ Build confidence, focus and discipline
✔ Improve fitness - appropriate to your age and ability
✔ Learn safe, effective self-defence skills
✔ Train in a welcoming, diverse and supportive community
✔ Structured lessons focused on working with others
✔ Learn from highly experienced teachers
✔ Low prices with great value training

Class Times📅
Tue: Juniors 17:00 – 18:00 • Teens 18:15 – 19:15• Adults 19:30 – 21:00
Sat: Juniors 09:30 – 10:30 • Teens 10:45 – 12:00
Sun: Weapons Class 18:00 – 20:30 (1st Sunday monthly)

📍Fortfield Road, Hengrove, Bristol BS14 9NX

First classes of 2026 begin next week - get started on your best resolution yet!✨
Drop-ins welcome, or text/call Daren on 07941 257 940 to book☎️

Check out our website www.bsad.club or Instagram for more information🙋‍♂️

A reminder that this coming Sunday is the first Sunday of the month - and you should all know what that means by now! Get yourself to BSAD for 6pm and join us for some sword and staff shenanigans - beginners are welcome and we’ll even lend you a stick if you don’t have your own.

Just enjoyed reading this write up of Simon & Trish who support so many of out courses.

They quietly come and go, always training sincerely and shun the limelight (and the end of the line).

Anyway - I enjoyed reading this...

Instructors at White Oak Aikido Experience and Qualifications of White Oak Aikido Instructors

A reminder to all that, as well as the exciting weapons seminar coming up on the 20th, we also have our regular monthly weapons get-together this Sunday (the 7th) at 6pm. Bring a stick (or borrow one of ours!) and learn how to use it to... inconvenience people.

Classes back on as normal tomorrow! Enjoyed the break but looking forward to the beginning of a new Aikido year. It will be my 34th. Time flies when you are having fun!