25/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
? I saw students on your mat who seemed to have practiced a long time, I’m concerned I’ll slow them down.
Please don’t worry about this.
Everyone practices and learns at their own pace: you will understand some things quicker than someone else and vice-versa.
As long as you are studying sincerely, I will teach you what you need to know at a rate you can learn at. We all enjoy practicing with different people: taller, shorter, faster, slower, more or less experienced — and we learn to deal with everybody with the same amount of respect.
Additionally, even the most experienced students (and the teacher!) learn when a beginner asks a question: the answer is often one they have never heard before!
? Do I need previous martial arts experience?
Not at all! Whether this is an entirely new kind of experience to you, or you have years of experience with other arts; you are welcome.
Whatever your experience, I will teach you Ki and Ki Aikido from the ground up. Only this way can I be sure that you are being taught the Art correctly. I have only ever practiced Ki Aikido[2], so you can be sure what you are taught has not been confused with anything else.
? What’s the difference between Ki Aikido and other styles?
I have spent all my practice time doing Ki Aikido with the Ki Federation, so I do not have experience of any other styles; certainly not enough to comment on how they may — or may not — be different.
? What age groups do you teach?
All ages from 14 onwards. Sensei has taught students ranging from 14 all the way up to students in their 80s. Everyone is taught to their abilities and can benefit from Ki and Aikido practice.
Younger students need to be taught with a slightly different approach to adults; and time doesn’t allow us to run a separate class.
? How fit do I need to be?
As fit as you are! Even “just” the gentle movement of the stretching and Ki exercises will benefit your health and fitness. When you read: “All the stretching and exercises come naturally within the individual’s physical limits.”, rest assured that we consider over-stretching to be harmful, and therefore actively avoided.
If you are fitter, or after some practice you develop your fitness, the exercises of Ki and Ki Aikido provide an opportunity for plenty of movement within the lesson.
If you are over 65, disabled, or otherwise concerned, we will provide a note for your doctor explaining the nature and benefits of practice.
? Can I watch a class before joining?
Yes, of course. Please, though, still arrive 5-10 minutes before the class so we can find you a place to sit. I probably won’t be able to talk to you in much detail before class starts, and then I must concentrate on the students.
However, there is a 20 minute tea-break, and we can talk then.
That said, I maintain that the best way to experience Ki and Ki Aikido is to do it!
