It is a truism that experience shared is the best teacher. This applies to all aspects of the journey that is life. The Aikido Association is presently hosting Chicko Xerri Sensei, a 4th dan Aikidoka from Australia.

Chicko Sensei demonstrated aspects of Aikido pertaining to the internal rather than the external aspects. External and internal are just simplistic ways of describing whether a technique is applied with apparent force or by leading the assailant in such a way that the perpetrator is felled by his or her own force, respectively.

A particular set of techniques which Chicko Sensei shared with those present depicted how one can use one’s own weight as a means to force into submission a determined aggressor, one intent on harming the purported victim. Other techniques revolved around the use of various unbalancing techniques, which form the basis of the Art.

All in all, it was an eye-opener for the local Aikidokas who participated in the seminar as they were exposed to different ways of executing the highly effective techniques studied during Aikido classes.

Those who are interested in Aikido may join a couple of free classes at the Guardian Angel School in Hamrun.

These are held on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 6.30pm to 8pm and Saturdays from 4.30pm to 6pm. Classes are open to all. For further details, one may contact Kevin Bonanno on 99899733 or via e-mail, [email protected] or visit www.aikido malta.net.