Looking for Dojo (Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia)
 

Hi all,

I'm very interested in taking up Aikido, and am after a recommendation as to which organisation or lineage to join. I'm really looking for a dojo that teaches authentic Aikido with a strong self defense focus, as I'm coming from a more MMA-ish background, but have been really impressed with a couple of Aikido guys I've sparred with in the past and would like to expand my horizons. Plus after an extended period of illness has pretty much destroyed my fitness level, the idea of being able to fight with a gentler, more intelligent style while I get my health back together is appealing. That said, I've been less than impressed with a few other Aikido practitioners I've met (they seemed to think I was going to attack with an overhead chop move or not really resist being arm barred or wrist locked, wow :rolleyes: ) so I'd really like some advice on which organisations are kosher, and which are just another black belt factory.

I'm on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia, so if anyone here happens to be from the area and can point me towards an excellent local dojo, that'd be fantastic! Otherwise, there are a couple of dojo's I've been looking at who are affiliated with the International Aikido Federation, although I'm really not sure if that equals quality or not. If they're known for consistently good quality training, I'd love to hear some experiences and opinions!

Regardless, greetings to everyone!

Re: Hi there! Advice needed.
 

Affiliation with the International Aikido Federation is worthless in determining quality, or even content of the curriculum. Best thing is to just go and try places out until you find one you like.

Best,

Chris

Re: Looking for Dojo (Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia)
 

Have visited the Gold Coast and practised with Graham Morris - well worth a visit IMO.

The key thing is to try dojos and work out what appeals to you personally. Could be teacher, could be atmosphere, could be other students - take your time and work it out!

Re: Looking for Dojo (Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia)
 

www.aikido.org.au

The organization established by Sugano Sensei. There is an affiliated dojo in the Gold Coast.

Re: Looking for Dojo (Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia)
 

I agree with what Chris said. You may find a great teacher in what is otherwise a bad organisation and vice versa.

Re: Looking for Dojo (Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia)
 

can recommend these guys; good solid traditional Aikido with links to Hombu

http://australasianaikikai.com.au

Re: Looking for Dojo (Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia)
 

I had no idea these guys existed. I'm intrigued. I'll look them up next time I'm in the area. Thanks.

Re: Looking for Dojo (Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia)
 

There is Daito Ryu at the Tweed Heads PCYC.

Re: Looking for Dojo (Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia)
 

Hi - I train with the Gold Coast Aikikai. We practice at Mudgeeraba on Mon/Wed/Fri from 1900/2030 and Sat 0800/1000. Come along any time - you're more than welcome.
As Robert said, Graham Morris (6 Dan) is our main instructor. He originally came from the UK and trained under Chiba. Sugano was the head of Australia, so our practise at the Gold Coast is a bit more varied than other Aikikai Australia dojo. Graham teaches on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Other senior dan grades take the Mon and Fri classes.

As Gavin said, there is a Daito Ryu study group at Tweeed Heads.
There is also a group called Kufudokan who have practice nights at Oxenford and Main Beach.

As Chris said, it all depends on what you are after. We are the group that is affiliated to hombu, but you may prefer one of the others - suggest you visit us all and make a decision from there.

Gold Coast Aikikai actually have a special training day on 14th of this month - feel free to come along if you can't make it beforehand. This will give you a look at other instructors from Queensland who will also be present.

Look forward to seeing you there