Yamatokawa Aikido

Happy new year everyone.

Lovely to see Chris back in training this week, and his first time at the new dojo (Ystrad OAP hall, 2 Tyntyla Rd, Ystrad RCT, CF41 7SF). To mark the occasion Chris put pen to paper and composed some haiku.

Please send us your haiku, respectful and original please.

Last night’s class focused on the importance of basic technique as the foundation for movement. We explored the twin pillars of Shin Gi Tai: Relax Completely and Body Shifting.
To illustrate this, we worked on Gyakuhanmi Tenchinage, following the teachings of Soke Jones:
- Moving offline to avoid an attack
- Taking uke’s balance
- Entering behind uke
- Projecting through the ki line with correct foot orientation
We then extended the practice into two versions with movement:
- Quick tenkan footwork followed by a diagonal cut to uke’s rear, taking balance before stepping in to complete the throw.
- Forward walking circle and projection, moving uke into position for nage to make a low cut to the rear and finish the technique.
Although the blends differ, the completion remains the same. In both versions, the calmness and patience cultivated in the basic technique are carried through into movement.

How to find our new venue

Congratulations to Steve on recently being awarded his first dan. Well done Steve.

We’re evolving!
Our Aikido club is entering a new chapter with a fresh name, new venue, and a new logo that reflects our philosophy of flow and spontaneity.
This design brings together our heritage and our deep valleys roots.
Follow us here for updates on training, events, and reflections on Aikido practice. Thank you for being part of this journey — we look forward to growing together in our new home.

This year's Cilfynydd Aikido Club course takes place on Saturday 28'th March from 11am at Ystrad Mynach College, Twyn Rd, Ystrad Mynach, CF82 7XR. Don't miss out on lunch!