Japanese martial arts Aikido seminar held in Nairobi

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Japanese martial arts, Aikido seminar in East Africa is being held this Saturday in Nairobi at Central Aikido Club.

Aikido, a martial art which is new in Kenya like most African countries, will be taught for one day in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city by Master Willis Ogalo and Master Dismas Agutu of High Voltage Martial arts.

“We aim to demystify Martial arts and present it as a means to not only earn a living but also create awareness of the importance of martial arts,” said Master Dismas Agutu who also added that it is important to learn martial arts from a tender age as it enhances discipline among young ones.

Founded by Japanese martial arts maestro Morihei Ueshiba early in the twentieth century following his own extensive study of various armed and unarmed martial systems, Aikido is a martial art that focuses on harmonising with your opponent to bring peaceful resolutions to conflicts.

Martial arts is a comprehensive system of throwing, joint-locking, striking and pinning techniques, coupled with training in traditional Japanese weapons such as the swords, staff and knives.

Master Dismas Agutu also aims to offer free classes in Nairobi’s slum areas where criminal activity is rampant.

“With good sponsorship, we dream to achieve more. Slums in particular are vastly affected by poverty and idleness which brings forth criminal activities. We offer guidance through this form of art and the kids grow up with discipline, work ethic and above all respect for others irrespective of their back ground,” summarised Dismas Agutu.

Aikido represents a potent distillation of centuries of Japanese martial knowledge.

Though new in most African countries, it is one of the most widely practiced budo, or martial way in the world.

The one day seminar has attracted KPC (Kenya Police College), High Voltage Martial Arts and Nairobi Central Tong-IL Moo-Do.