In another first for an Aikido club in Malta, the Yamato Dojo in Hamrun has recently begun training sessions specially designed for Juniors between the ages of 11 and16 years.

In a new development that demonstrates again the dynamism of this young but very active club, the Yamato Dojo has decided to build on the encouraging response to its adult Aikido classes by designing and running Junior classes.

In 2008, the Yamato dojo saw its ranks swell by several new practitioners of this dynamic, powerful-yet-gentle martial art.

“We are delighted with the way the club has grown over the past year” said Kevin Bonanno the Sensei (Instructor) at the club. “This is only our third year and we have seen several very exciting developments including the relocation of the club to a large timber-floored dojo, the official launch of our club and the opportunity to train with three highly ranked Aikido Masters who visited on three separate occasions” added Sensei Kevin. “The response has been so encouraging that we have now commenced a Junior Club. Already we have some 15 participants”.

Aikido is a Japanese martial art that focuses primarily on self defence and the development of a harmonious, co-operative spirit. Junior Aikido is designed to introduce juniors to the noted benefits of a martial art and is structured much like those of adult classes. However special exercises are designed to build balance, timing and perception in a fun and safe environment.

A very important and attractive aspect to Aikido training, especially for young people, is that Aikido teaches juniors how to handle violence without themselves becoming violent.

There are, for example, no kicks or punches in Aikido - nor is there competition. Aikidoka are not trained to ‘beat an opponent’. Instead they are trained to improve themselves in a spirit of cooperation, care for others, courtesy, self worth and respect. Aikidoka learns a self defence that is an alternative to violence.

Periodically, students are tested and certified according to a formal technical programme. After the age of 16 students can join the Aikido Yamato Club, in which Aikido is fully explored as a martial art.

The Aikido Yamato Dojo is a branch of the Italian AIKO (Associazione Sportivo Culturale) which is affiliated with the world wide federation of Aikido clubs, the Aikikai headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

In 2008, in another first for the club, the Yamato Dojo prepared a series of well-received television programmes designed to introduce the general public to this unique Martial Art.

The Aikido Junior Club is located at the Maria Assumpta Girls Secondary School in Hamrun and sessions are held Saturdays afternoon from 15.00 to 16.15 and are lead by qualified instructor Kevin Bonanno assisted by Claude Calleja, both certified in First Aid.

Further information can be obtained at 9989 9733 or on the web at www.aikidomalta.net