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When I first started practicing aikido awhile ago, I had no idea what to expect. Martial arts weren’t something I knew anything about, nor had I really considered trying my hand at them before. But my boyfriend really wanted me to give it a go, so I did. Looking back two years later, I can now see a lot of things I’ve learned.
1. The ability to fall - falling well is an important part of martial arts study so that you can practice a variety of techniques that require you or your partners to fall without incident. I am certain that knowing how to fall safely has repeatedly kept me from being injured to date and will no doubt continue to protect me in the future.
2. Self-confidence - I know that aikido has fuelled my confidence. In particular, I know that the first time I tested for a new ranking was a huge self-esteem boost for me. It was difficult to get up in front of the jury of black belts and perform techniques, but I did it, and showing them what I had learned was a great experience. Day-to-day, I know aikido has improved the confidence I have in my own movement.
3. Perseverance - I haven’t always been very patient when it comes to physical activity and exercise. Before aikido, I’d never stuck with any particular sport for more than a year. Aikido has such an array of techniques and things to work on that class is never boring. I get a lot of support and encouragement from my teacher and classmates - incentive for me to stick around. I plan to practice aikido for as long as I can.
4. A sense of humour - I like to think I had a pretty good sense of humour prior to my taking up aikido, but practicing has only sharpened it. Sometimes funny things happen in the dojo, and all you can do is laugh.
5. A certain love for fight night - or any of the martial sports. I liked watching sports before I started aikido, but watching some of the mixed martial arts competitions and other fighting styles has become much more interesting now that it is something I’m starting to understand better.
6. A great workout - aikido practice includes great cardiovascular exercise and has improved my flexibility. Aikido really involves the whole body and that’s a great way to exercise.
7. To just do it! - Some days on my way to class, I really don’t feel much like practicing. I’m tired from work or I’m busy with other things and it seems like my time would be better spent elsewhere. I never feel that way after class, so I’ve learned to tune out those pre-class thoughts and just do it!
I encourage you to give aikido a try, or any other new pursuit of your choosing for that matter. Above and beyond feeling better, there’s no telling what you’ll learn about yourself in the process and maybe that’s the greatest benefit of all.
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