When can I start training?

If you'd like to start training, you're welcome to do so on almost any Wednesday evening. We run special beginners courses in February and September, but students don't have to attend one of these to start training. You're also always welcome to come along and watch a class, to see what it's like.  

Please look here for pictures of a typical class.

What does it cost?

Beginners start by paying for three consecutive Wednesday classes, which costs £18. After that, if you want to carry on, you pay for classes at the normal club rate and will need to join our association, Aikido Research Federation.

There's no other special equipment to buy.  You may want to purchase a gi (aikido suit) and aikido weapons (bokken and jo)  at a later date, but that's entirely up to you. 

What will else do I need to know? 

• You must be 18 or over
• You need to wear loose clothing (T-shirt, tracksuit etc), which you don't mind being pulled or stretched. You should also take off all jewellery, or cover it with sticking tape. Finger and toe nails should be kept short and long hair tied up.
• We don't recommend that you wear eye glasses. If you need to, we don't accept responsibility for damage to them.  Please ensure they are safe to use for sport.
• Anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol won't be allowed to train. You must also tell your teacher of any medical conditions that might affect your ability to train or exercise.
• For your safety, and that of the other students, you must do exactly what the teachers instruct.
• There are no refunds for missed classes.  

What about insurance?

Due to changes in financial regulations, we are not allowed to sell you insurance for training. If, however, you join our association (ARF), this also gives you student membership of the British Aikido Board (BAB). Included in membership of the BAB is some insurance cover, details of which can be found on their website. If you would like to arrange your own extra personal insurance cover, you're free to do so.

What do I do now?

Just come along and start training, or watch a class and see what you think.  Our Wednesday evening classes start at 8pm and finish at 10pm. They take place here at the John Henry Newman Leisure Centre, Hitchin Road, Stevenage, SG1 4AE.

If you have any more questions, please contact us.