So, You Want To Start Aikido?: Chapter 83: This is where my journey as a beginner ends and a new one starts…

About The Following Blog

The following blog has been written purely for those wanting a first hand knowledge of what it is like to step into the dojo for the first time as a complete beginner as a Martial Artist. Through practising a Martial Art, you will gain many things such as self-confidence, self-respect and life-long and good friends. I hope this helps you to see into an amazing world of which you have never seen before and that I have had the privilege of belonging to and knowing.
Although I have not put my name or any name to this blog, it does deserve a dedication- a dedication to those who help people to train, who teach, reassure and most important of all- those who never give up, no matter how many times they hit the ground or a mental brick wall, with themselves or others. But above all- those who are ready to begin their own journey, it begins with one step….

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Sunday, 12 May 2024

Chapter 83: This is where my journey as a beginner ends and a new one starts…

It’s been a while hasn’t it?

Well I think the biggest change has been is that I am now a First Dan in Tomiki Aikido. I graded on 26th November 2023. I started Aikido in 2006.

It hasn’t always been a straight forward journey over the last few years up to First Dan.

There has been a good reason for the gap since posting and it is not due entirely to the pandemic. In November 2021 I was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of Triple Negative Breast Cancer. I have had some major surgery and 6 months of chemotherapy as part of my treatment. I am pleased to say that I’m now fit and well.

I am back on the mat and have started my own club.

This blog originally started as a form of an online diary as a beginner.

The ironic thing is that I feel like a beginner more than ever. I feel like a white belt again. It feels good coming back to complete the circle.

I plan to update my blog periodically from time to time. I hope you have enjoyed this journey with me.

1 comment:

Scott Zrubek said...: Congrats on getting back to the mat and foiling cancer.

I'd guess that you're not part of the Geis lineage of Tomiki Aikido, since that's only U.S. to my knowledge

Good luck with the start of a new journey; May 12, 2024

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How do I repair my Gi?

Although Gis are pretty tough and last quite a few years before showing their age, occasionally repairs are needed.

There is a wise old saying 'A stitch in time saves nine'. Check your Gi regularly for any wear and tear and make good any repairs.

Generally speaking, the use of a darning needle will suffice for minor repairs. A running stitch made of small stitches usually is enough although re-enforcement using a patch may be required.
Failing that, a trip to a local seamstress or tailor may be in order.

For any interested bookworms...useful books to read on Aikido