When people think of martial arts, they have a tendency to immediately think of Jackie Chan, Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris and of course, Austin Powers! "Judo... CHOP!" But there really is a lot more to martial arts than just "kickin' butt."
Right here in our very own town is an instructor who teaches "the Way of Harmony." Dr. John Riggs is a chiropractor who has been studying the art of Aikido since 1973. Calm, cool and collected, Dr. Riggs is an easy going fellow. Confidence has a way of disarming people, and you get a good sense of what that means when you meet Riggs Sensei.
Sensei? Aikido? Huh???
Let's back up. Aikido, literally translated means," the way of harmony" or " the way of peace." The founder of aikido came to the conclusion that martial arts were a means to an end: peace for all of humanity. And having studied it for over three years now, I tend to agree. Instead of learning how to punch, kick, smash and break things, aikido teaches one how to use joint locks or throws in order to gain control of a situation and bring order.
I can hardly do aikido justice here. Check out: http://members.cox.net/aikidoc1/home.htm for all the answers to questions you might have. But before you go, let me say this:
Aikido is great exercise. Good for cardio workout as well as development of coordination and balance.
Aikido is for everybody! Ages 8 to 80 are able to step on the mat and pick it up along with the rest of us.
Aikido does not discriminate. Women learn and develop skills just as easily as the men do. Size is not a factor if you learn the basics behind the art.
Most importantly, it's fun! Where else can you go, throw someone around, be thrown around yourself, get up and do it all over again... all the while smiling and thanking your partner for throwing you and being thrown themselves? It's funny when you get right down to it.
So check out the website! Or better yet, e-mail me and ask all the questions you like. If you are truly serious, I'd be happy to take a call or give you one if you wish.
Aikido is growing in Midland, Texas! We have a 4th degree instructor who practices safe, effective and fun martial arts. Our class is filled with students of the finest character. Well, I'm in there too. But aside from that, I think you'd really enjoy aikido!
If you have ever been curious about martial arts, but were too embarrassed or shy to give it a shot? Well, now there are no more excuses. Aikido is just right for you!
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