Southampton Shiseikan Aikido Dojo

Southampton Shiseikan Dojo has been running since 1985. It is affiliated to the British Aikido Federation. The Shiseikan Dojo is one of the two constituent parts of the Southampton Aikikai, alongside the Southampton University Dojo, with which we share the instructors.

What "style" of aikido do we practise?

We follow the mainstream "Aikikai" tradition, based on the curriculum of the Aikikai Hombu Dojo. We concentrate very much on basic technique and body movement, stressing the importance both of correct technique and of "aiki", or harmony. Because it takes so much time to absorb and polish the basics of aikido, weapons work is rare. There is no competition in aikido.

Classes are formally structured, but at the same time we encourage a relaxed and joyful training atmosphere where individuals can develop at their own speed, regardless of their experience and abilities.

Who are the instructors?

Alex Megann (5th Dan and Fukushidoin with the BAF) is the chief instructor, and holds the qualification of "Coach" with the British Aikido Board (BAB). He started aikido in Oxford in the late 1970s, under Minoru Kanetsuka, Peter Megann and Vincent Sumpter. In 1984 he moved to Southampton, and has been practising and teaching there since then, as well as continuing to follow courses with his teacher, Kanetsuka Sensei.
Jim Anderson (2nd Dan, and BAB Coach) assists in classes, and normally teaches the Friday afternoon class.
Adam Blaker (1st kyu and BAB Coach) also teaches occasional classes.

Classes

The Southampton University Dojo meets in the Martial Arts Studio, on Level 1 of the Students' Union, University Road, SO17 1BJ:

Tuesdays 18:00 - 20:00

Thursdays 07:30 - 08:30 (Yes, that IS before breakfast!)

Fridays 17:00 - 18:30

Sundays 10:00-12:00 (Non-beginners' class, by arrangement.)

Contact

e-mail: Alex Megann (instructor) or Jim Anderson (dojo secretary).