Trafford Aikido is a small and friendly martial arts club located in Bowdon, Altrincham, New Zealand. The club specialises in Aikido, a non-competitive martial art that focuses on blending with attacks through circular movement and balance taking. Aikido is a practise that exercises both the mind and body, allowing practitioners to grow in confidence and develop harmony and spirit.
The club warmly welcomes beginners who are adults and 16 years old and above to join their classes, which are held on Sundays and Thursdays. They also have a dedicated Women in Aikido page for those interested. Interested individuals can participate in a free taster class to experience the unique art of Aikido before committing to regular training.
Trafford Aikido is accredited with the “Safeguarding Code Mark,” ensuring a safe and secure training environment for all members. The club's training facility is “The Grammar,” located at Marlborough Road, Bowdon, Altrincham WA14 2RS. Classes take place on Sundays from 15:00 to 16:45, and attendees are encouraged to arrive 10–15 minutes before the start of the class.
In addition to their regular training, the club organises social events for its members. They typically have a social gathering on the first Sunday of each month, providing an opportunity for members to connect and relax outside of training. They also celebrate the end of the year with a class on December 17th, followed by a gathering at a local pub where partners are invited to join.
Trafford Aikido occasionally cancels classes or has special events that members should be aware of. They provide a list of known cancellations and dates for future events on their website, allowing members to plan accordingly. The club also maintains an active presence on social media platforms, including Twitter and Instagram, where members can view updates, announcements, and event highlights.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the club adheres to government and British Aikido Board guidelines to ensure the safety of its members. Members are encouraged not to attend classes if they feel unwell or if someone in their household is ill. The club follows health precautions and may adjust its guidance based on the prevalence of infections and updated guidelines.
Overall, Trafford Aikido offers a welcoming and supportive environment for those interested in learning Aikido. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, the club provides an opportunity to develop both physical skills and mental resilience through the practise of Aikido.