HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

Thursday, December 3, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Douglas Kohai took us through the warm up session which was slightly different in that we concentrated mainly on Mae and Ushiro Ukemi (Tachi Waza) as well as Mae Ukemi using two Uke as 'barriers'.

Kawakami Sensei arrived a little later and being the last session of the year, he dedicated the whole session to us by requesting if we had any queries.

We suggested  Hanmi Handachi attacks/techniques as well as Tsuki attacks and the following was what Sensei guided us through:

From Hanmi Handachi Waza:

-Ikkyo Omote & Ura.

-Nikyo Omote & Ura.

-Sankyo Omote.

-Yonkyo Omote & Ura.

-Shiho Nage Omote & Ura.

-Kata dori Ikkyo Omote & Ura.

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote & Ura.

From a Tsuki attack (with Tanto):

-Ikkyo Omote & Ura.

-Sankyo Omote.

-Shiho Nage Omote & Ura.

-Ude Kimenage.

The session culminated with Zagi Kokyu Ho.

Since Kawakami Sensei is still in Kenya until mid December, we will organise and see if we will be able to get a venue in the course of next week to enable us make use of Sensei before he leaves for Japan.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL AND BEST WISHES IN THE COMING YEAR!

NEXT SESSION: TUESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2016 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, December 1, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

The turnout was larger than normal with a good number of newcomers who were 'trying out' Aikido for the very first time and the warm up session was brief which was followed by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi (Tachi Waza) as well as Shikko.

Kawakami Sensei demonstrated various attacks/techniques from a static Katatedori stance, a static Ai Hanmi Katatedori stance, Morote dori stance, a Shomen Uchi strike as well as a Yokomen uchi strike not forgetting the opening for Ushiro Ryote dori techniques.

The major techniques we concentrated on are as follows:

-Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote.

-Morote dori Ikkyo Omote & Ura.

-Morote dori Nikyo Omote & Ura.

-Morote dori Shiho Nage Omote.

-Morote dori Kote Gaeshi.

Kawakami Sensei also demonstrated some advanced techniques featuring two Uke in a Morote dori stance and Tori does Shiho Nage as well as Rokkyo on both Uke.

On the other side, Toshiyuki San guided the newcomers through basic falls and warm up exercises.

Kawakami Sensei reiterated the importance of posture and above all one should keep practising on a regular basis to grasp the basics of each attack/technique.

LAST OFFICIAL SESSION OF 2015: THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, November 24, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Kawakami Sensei guided us through the whole session which took off with the now familiar 'Japanese style' warm up exercises followed by Ikkyo Undo and the like, Shikko as well as Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from tachi Waza.

Kawakami Sensei demonstrated various attacks and techniques which included the following:

-Katatedori Tenkan Ho.

-Katatedori Kokyu Ho.

-Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote and Ura.

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote and Ura.

-Kata dori Nikyo Omote and Ura.

-Tsuki Ikkyo Omote and Ura.

Kawakami Sensei then conducted a 'mock' Nikyu grading test which I was put to the test and I realised I have a lot of polishing to do before February next year (D.V.) especially the Hanmi Handachi Waza attacks/techniques.

The session culminated with Zagi Kokyu Ho.

For the interest of those interested in having a look at the Hombu Dojo grading system, kindly copy paste the following link in your browser:

http://www.aikikai.or.jp/eng/information/review.html

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, November 19, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Kawakami Sensei took us through the paces and we began with warm up exercises, Ikkyo Undo and the like then followed by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Tachi Waza.

Bearing in mind come next year if all goes well, most of us will be grading and Kawakami Sensei held a 'mock grading' whereby all those interested in grading for Gokyu were examined.

Apart from the 'mock grading' exercise, the following are the attacks/techniques we went through:

-Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote and Ura respectively.

-Katatedori Ikkyo Omote and Ura.

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote and Ura, Irimi Nage and Kote Gaeshi respectively.

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Irimi Nage and Kote Gaeshi respectively.

-Kata dori Ikkyo Omote and Ura respectively.

-Hanmi Handachi waza Shiho Nage Omote and Ura.

Toshiyuki San informed me that he got confirmation of the Aikido Sensei coming next year. One of them is 7th dan Kanazawa Takeshi Shihan and the other one is 3rd dan Tokuda Masaya Sensei.

They might be accompanied by one other Sensei but that is yet to be confirmed.

Below is a video of Kanazawa Shihan during the 52nd All Japan Aikido Demonstration last year.

NEXT SESSION: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24 @ THE SAME VENUE

Kanazawa Takeshi 7th Dan Shihan - 52nd All Japan Aikido Demonstration 2014

Tuesday, November 17, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Kawakami Sensei is back and he was present for the session arriving earlier than most of us as usual.
We kicked off with a light warm up session followed by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Tachi Waza. Sensei then supervised as Leon and I went through some basics before we embarked on the following:

TACHI WAZA:

-Katatedori Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Katatedori Nikyo Omote & Ura respectively.

SUWARI WAZA:

-Katatedori Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

We wrapped up the session with Zagi Kokyu Ho.

P.S.

KINDLY NOTE: There will be no Aikido session on Thursday, November 26, 2015 due to the papal visit to Kenya.

Furthermore, this year the JICC will close earlier. Kindly note that the last Aikido session of 2015 will be on Thursday, December 3. The first Aikido session of 2016 will be on Tuesday, January 12, 2016.

NEXT SESSION: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, November 12, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

The warm up session was quite brief and was followed by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi as well as a series of breakfalls courtesy of Douglas Kohai before he embarked on the second part of the session with the following:

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Ai Hanmi katatedori Sankyo Omote.

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote and Ura respectively.

-What we fondly refer to as Kata Gatame through the opening of Ai Hanmi Katatedori.

Haishin Undo was in order after a series of Ukemi and breakfalls to stretch the weary backs.

P.S. Susan hinted to me that there is a possibility there will be no Aikido sessions during the last week of this month due to the Pope's visit to Kenya and that this year the Japan embassy might close earlier than usual as a result of a conference that is scheduled to take place but she stated that once all has been confirmed, she will communicate to us in due course.

NEXT SESSION: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, November 10, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Toshiyuki San took us through the warm up session followed by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Tachi Waza and it was quite humid inside I guess due to the fact that it was raining outside.

The techniques of the day were as follows:

-Katatedori Kokyu Ho.

-Katatedori Nikyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Uchi Kaiten Nage Omote & Ura respectively.

-Katatedori Kokyu Nage Omote.

Toshiyuki San organised us in groups of three (Jiyu Waza) for all but one of the techniques. In the last technique (Katatedori Kokyu Nage Omote), we organised ourselves in two lines with one Tori in each line performing the technique.

The session culminated with Zagi Kokyu Ho followed by Haishin Undo.

P.S. Masayuki Kawakami Sensei is coming back to Kenya once again! He will be available as from next Tuesday (November 17) upto around mid December according to an email from his daughter. We look forward to having Sensei guide us through his knowledge of Aikido once again.

NEXT SESSION: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, November 3, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Being the only Aikido session of the week, we tried our level best to maximise on time and after a sweaty work out session which was followed thereafter by Mae, Ushiro, Yoko and Gyaku Ukemi from Tachi Waza, we went through the following techniques:

-Katatedori Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Ryotedori Shiho Nage Omote.

-Katatedori Ushiro Kubishime.

We wrapped up the session with Haishin Undo.

NEXT SESSION: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, October 29, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

It was a sweaty session with most of us drenched in sweat by the end of it courtesy of Toshiyuki San.

The warm up session was done the 'Japanese way' followed thereafter by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Tachi Waza.

Toshituki San guided us through the following techniques:

-Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote & Ura respectively.

-Katatedori Kote Gaeshi Ura.

-Katatedori Kokyu Nage Omote.

-Katatedori Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

We wrapped it up with Zagi Kokyu Ho followed by Haishin Undo.

NEXT SESSION: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3 @ THE SAME VENUE.

Tuesday, October 27, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Once again Douglas Kohai took us through the paces and it was quite humid in the 'dojo' although it rained outside.

I missed out on the warm up session which I bet was intense and the techniques we went through were as follows:

-Katatedori Shiho Nage Ura.

-Katatedori Kote Gaeshi Omote.

-Katatedori Kokyu Nage.

-Shorter version of Nikyo Omote from a static Ai Hanmi Katatedori stance.

-Hanmi Handachi Waza Shiho Nage.

The session ended with a well deserved back stretch (Haishin Undo).

NEXT SESSION: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, October 22, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

It was a delight to have Douglas Kohai take us through the session after being away for a while and he did not disappoint.

The warm up session was intense as one would expect from our colleague Douglas which also included Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Tachi Waza as well as Mae Ukemi using one & later on two 'volunteers' as barriers.

The attack of the day was Chudan Tsuki executed as follows:

-Chudan Tsuki Irimi Nage Omote & Ura respectively.

-Chudan Tsuki Kote Gaeshi.

-Chudan Tsuki Kokyu Ho.

A session of Jiyu Waza which featured the attacks mentioned above as well as any other attacks/techniques.

NOTE: THERE WILL BE NO AIKIDO SESSION ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2015 DUE TO PREPARATIONS FOR THE ANNUAL JAPAN CULTURAL FESTIVAL WHICH IS SCHEDULED TO TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2015 AT THE JICC. ONCE AGAIN THERE WILL NOT BE AN AIKIDO DEMONSTRATION THE REASON BEING THE AIKIDO 'EXHIBITION' PLANNED FOR EARLY NEXT YEAR.

NEXT SESSION: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27 @ THE SAME VENUE.

Thursday, october 15, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Toshiyuki San took us through a 'Japanese style' warm up session that included Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Tachi Waza that left most of us sweating profusely.

Afterwards, he guided us through the following techniques which were all from the static Ryote dori position:

-Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Shiho Nage Omote (two versions).

-Kokyu Ho.

-Kokyu Nage Omote.

The session ended with both Zagi Kokyu Ho and Haishin Undo.

REMINDER; KINDLY NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE NO AIKIDO SESSION ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20 WHICH WILL BE A PUBLIC HOLIDAY (MASHUJAA DAY).

Tuesday, October 13, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

This particular Tuesday was dedicated to Morote dori but before that, we had a brief warm up session under Douglas Kohai which also included Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Tachi Waza & Suwari Waza. The Chukyu were on one side going through the more intense Ukemi while the Mukyu under the guidance of Douglas Kohai  were on another side going through the basics of Ukemi.

Later on, Toshiyuki San demonstrated the following techniques all, as mentioned earlier, were executed from a static Morote dori stance:

-Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Irimi Nage Omote.

-Kokyu Ho Omote & Ura respectively.

-Kote Gaeshi Omote.

-Shiho Nage.

-Kokyu Nage version.

-Uchi Kaiten Nage.

-Soto Kaiten Nage.

-Ude Kimenage.

NEXT SESSION: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, October 8, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Douglas Kohai took us through the warm up session which also incorporated Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Tachi Waza and Suwari Waza.

Afterwards, Toshiyuki Sensei took over and guided us through the following attacks/techniques:

-Yokomen Uchi Shiho Nage Omote & Ura respectively.

-Yokomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Ushiro Ryote dori Kokyu Nage.

The session ended with Ushiro Ryote dori Kokyu Ho.

NEXT SESSION: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, October 6, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Before proceeding any further, it is a big welcome to Dan Sempai and Douglas Kohai who were present during the whole session. Dan Sempai is on leave while Douglas Kohai who was away for six months is now back with us and we look forward to training with them regularly.

Yet again we had a 'visiting Sensei' this time it was a lady from Belgium who is a Sandan in Aikido. She was accompanied by her spouse who watched from the 'sideline'. She informed us that she has been practising Aikido for the last 45 years! (since she was 15 years old!)

Margaret Sensei began by a light warm up session which I found in progress before she took us through the basics of Tai Sabaki.

After going through Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Suwari Waza and Tachi Waza, we progressed with the following attacks/techniques:

-Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote.

-Shomen Uchi opening focusing on Tai Sabaki.

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote.

-Ushiro Ryotedori opening.

It was a goood session all in all and we hope to progress further as we learn more and more about Aikido.

NEXT SESSION: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8 @ THE SAME SESSION.

Tuesday, September 29, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

The session kicked off quite late nevertheless, we went through a brief warm up session followed by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Suwari Waza and Tachi Waza before we embarked on the following attacks/techniques:

TACHI WAZA:

-Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote & Ura.

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Ude Kime nage.

SUWARI WAZA:

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote.

We had quite a number of newcomers and we focused on Kamae, Maai and precision.

足の仕事

NOTE:

THERE WILL BE NO AIKIDO SESSION ON THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2015 DUE TO PREPARATIONS FOR AN EVENT THAT WILL TAKE PLACE THIS COMING FRIDAY & SATURDAY.

NEXT SESSION: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, September 24, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Tom Sempai guided us through the entire session which began in a different format from what we are used to which is essential in preparing us Aikidoka to always anticipate anything and not being complacent at any given time.

We kicked off the session with the basics of Tai no Tenkan Ho before proceeding further with the following:

-Katatedori Kokyu Nage (various versions).

-Morote dori Kokyu Nage (various versions).

-Ryote dori Kokyu Nage (various versions).

-Tsuki (with Tanto) Kote Gaeshi.

We wrapped it up with Zagi Kokyu Ho.

The session was an eye opener especially for myself since it taught me the importance of using what I have learnt in class in a real life situation.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-MURAGURI Herman

-NJOGU Stephen

-NJENGA Anthony

-Various 'regulars'

-MWAKIO Sammy

P.S. I came across a very interesting read in the Aikido journal entitled "Morihiro Saito's complete guide to Aikido" which can be accessed from the following link:

http://aikidojournal.com/2015/09/21/morihiro-saitos-complete-guide-to-aikido/

NEXT SESSION: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, September 17, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

We were priviledged with the presence of Naseem, a Sandan in Aikido whose roots are from the Iwama branch of Aikido and it was he who took us through the whole session which kicked off with a light warm up session followed by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Tachi Waza.

Naseem Sempai guided us through the following attacks/techniques:

-The basics of Tai no Henko.

-Katatedori Kokyu Ho.

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote and Ura respectively.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-Naseem

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-MUTHII Joshua

-NJOGU Stephen

-Several 'regulars'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NOTE: KINDLY NOTE THAT NEXT TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2015 IS A PUBLIC HOLIDAY IN JAPAN (BRIDGE PUBLIC HOLIDAY) THUS THERE WILL BE NO AIKIDO SESSION ON THAT DAY.

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 @ THE SAME VENUE

Great article about a failed Kote Gaeshi technique by Stanley Pranin

http://aikidojournal.com/2015/09/16/this-technique-is-a-disaster-dissection-of-a-failed-kotegaeshi-by-stanley-pranin/

Good stuff Joseph!

Nairobi Aikikai members are endowed with various talents apart from Aikido and I came across an article about one of our own, Joseph Bokea who is among our regulars.

Kindly refer to the link below to read more about his achievements as a novelist:

http://www.monitor.co.ke/2015/06/03/kenyas-youngest-novelist-urges-parents-nurture-creative-talent/

Tuesday, September 15, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Ben Sempai took was 'in charge' of the whole session and we kicked off with the usual warm up exercises followed by a session of Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Suwari Waza and Tachi Waza before proceeding with the techniques mentioned below:

TACHI WAZA:

-Katatedori Sumi Otoshi and Kokyu Nage respectively.

-Ryote dori Tenchi Nage.

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Sankyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Katatedori Shiho Nage version as executed from Hanmi Handachi Shiho Nage.

HANMI HANDACHI WAZA:

-Shiho Nage.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KIYAGA Ben

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-MUTHII Joshua

-OKUMU Julius

-NJOGU Stephen

-WAITITU Vanessa

-NJENGA Anthony

-A number of 'familiar faces'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION; THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 @ THE SAME SESSION

Tuesday, September 8, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

We went through a light warm up session and then went straight to the attacks/techniques of the day which were as follows:

TACHI WAZA:

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote & Ura respestively.

-Shomen Uchi Sumi Otoshi.

-Shomen Uchi Gokyo Ura.

We wrapped up the session with Haishin Undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MICHUKI Leon

-NJOGU Stephen

-WAITITU Vanessa

-NJENGA Anthony

-A number of 'regulars'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, September 1, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

After a brief warm up session followed by Ukemi using one and two Uke as an 'obstacle', we kicked off the session with the techniques mentioned below all from Tachi Waza:

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Ushiro Ryote dori Sankyo Omote.

-Ryote dori Kote Gaeshi.

-Zagi Kokyu Ho.

We wrapped up the session with Haishin Undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MUTHII Joshua

-MICHUKI Leon

-NJOGU Stephen

-WAITITU Vanessa

-KAMAU Maurice

-Two 'regulars'

-Three newcomers who joined us for the very first time.

-MWAKIO Sammy

Memories.....our generic poster advertising Nairobi Aikikai to the whole world.....I feel proud to have featured in the poster:

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, August 25, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

After a light jog around the 'dojo', we were more than ready to kick off with warm up exercises which included some of my favourite body conditioning exercises.

What followed next was Mae, Ushiro, Yoko and Gyaku Ukemi all from Tachi Waza before we embarked on the attacks/techniques of the day as follows:

SUWARI WAZA:

-Shomen Uchi Irimi Nage Omote.

-Zagi Kokyu Ho.

TACHI WAZA:

-Uchi Kaiten Nage Omote.

-Soto Kaiten Nage Omote.

-Kata dori Nikyo Ura.

We ended the session with Haishin Undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MUTHII Joshua

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-WAITITU Vanessa

-NJENGA Anthony

-NJOGU Stephen

-KAMAU Maurice

-Two 'regulars'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, August 20, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

The warm up session kicked off with some stretching exercises followed by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi, Yoko Ukemi and Gyaku Ukemi all from Tachi Waza.

Afterwards, we went through the following attacks/techniques:

SUWARI WAZA:

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote and Ura.

TACHI WAZA:

-Tai no Tenkan Ho followed by a version of Kubishime from a Kokyu Ho opening.

-Ryote dori Kote Gaeshi.

-Kata Gatame via the opening of Ai Hanmi Katatedori Ikkyo, Nikyo, etc.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-NJOGU Stephen

-NJENGA Anthony

-A sizeable number of 'regulars'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,AUGUST 25 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, August 18, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

We kicked off as is the tradition with warm up exercises to prepare ourselves for the main session which included Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Tachi Waza as well as Mae and Ushiro Shikko.

Afterwards,Tom Sempai took us through the following attacks/techniques:

HANMI HANDACHI WAZA:

Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote and Ura respectively.

TACHI WAZA:

-Ryote dori Tenchi Nage and Shiho Nage Omote respectively.

-Morote dori Kokyu Ho.

SUWARI WAZA:

-Shomen Uchi Irimi Nage and Ikkyo Omote respectively.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-MUTHII Joshua

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-NJOGU Stephen

-KAMAU Maurice

-NJENGA Anthony

-Several enthusiastic Aikidoka

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY, AUGUST 20 @ THE SAME VENUE

P.S.Kindly note that there will be no Aikido session on Thursday, August 27, 2015 due to a conference that will be held at the Japan Information & Culture Centre.

Thursday, August 13, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

The session kicked off with the usual warm up exercises and two new faces joined us and they were quite eager to find out what Aikido is all about.

By the time the warm up session was over, we were sweating profusely courtesy of my favourite 'ten sets by four' push ups.

The rest of the session was as follows:

-Katadori Ikkyo Omote

-Katatedori Ikkyo Omote and Ura respectively.

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Kote Gaeshi with a different finishing move.

-Shomen Uchi Sankyo Omote.

The session came to a close with Kokyu Ho Kokyu Dosa (Zagi Kokyu Ho).

It was noted that of late there has been a lot of takling going on whilst an attack/a technique is being demonstrated and we are urged to keep talking to a minimum whenever in the 'dojo'.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MICHUKI Leon

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-NJOGU Stephen

-NJENGA Anthony

-KAMAU Maurice

-Two 'regulars'

-Two newcomers

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,AUGUST 18 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, August 11, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

The turnout was not as it usually is but nonetheless, we carried on with the session which kicked off with warm up exercises followed by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from tachi Waza as well as Mae and Ushiro Shikko.

We revised some Gokyu and Sankyu attacks/techniques as follows:

-Ryotedori Tenchinage.

-Yokomen Uchi Shiho Nage Omote.

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

We ended the session with Haishin Undo to relax the aching backs.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MICHUKI Leon

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-NJENGA Anthony

-NJOGU Stephen

-KAMAU Maurice

-Two Aikido 'enthusiasts'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,AUGUST 13 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday 6th August 2015 Study

It was another good day of studying the way of harmony and getting prepared for the Examinations come next year.
Sam Sempai put the class in readiness by conducting aiki taiso. The  class went through some classic warmups like crab walks, duckwalks, pushups and crunches.
We were reminded to continue to appreciate and adhere to Aikido Etiquettes like bowing all the way down towards the Shomen and Ukes before and after training. Thanking your partners after performing techniques on the mat.

Techniques

• Katadori Ikkyo Omote- Shoulder grab, first pinning technique going to the front.

• Katadori Ikkyo Ura- Shoulder grab, first pinning technique going to the back.

• ShomenUchi Ikkyo Omote- Straight strike to the head, first control/pinning technique to front.

• ShomenUchi Ikkyo Ura- Straight strike to the head, first control/pinning technique to the back.

• ShomenUchi Iriminage- Straight strike to head entering throw.

• YokomenUchi Parry exercise for Ura and Omote.

• YokomenUchi Shihonage Omote- Strike to side of the head four directional throw.

• YokomenUchi Shihonage Ura- Strike to side of the head four directional throw. 

                   Next session at the JICC is on Tuesday, 11th august 2015, Onegai shimasu.

                                                    Picture of O Sensei in his earlier days

Tuesday, August 4, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

With the upcoming grading in mind,Tom Sempai took us through a rigorous warm up session that left many of us sweating profusely.

Among the drills we went through were Ikkyo Undo, Funakogi Undo and the like.

A brief session of Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Suwari Waza and Tachi Waza followed before we embarked on the attacks/techniques of the day as follows:

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote.

-Shomen Uchi Irimi nage.

-Ushiro Ryotedori Kokyunage.

We wrapped up the session with Zagi kokyu Ho.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-NJOROGE Walter

-KAMAU Maurice

-Anthony

-A sizeable turnout of 'newcomers'

-MWAKIO Sammy

P.S. A reminder to the newcomers to observe dojo etiquette and always request the one conducting the session whenever one wants to leave rather than just taking leave without permission.

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,AUGUST 6 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, July 30, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Toshiyuki Sensei took us through the whole session beginning with the warm up session followed by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Tachi Waza before we embarked on the following attacks and techniques:

-Tai no Tenkan followed by Katatedori Kokyu Ho.

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote and Ura respectively.

-Shomen Uchi Irimi Nage.

-Ushiro Ryote Dori Kokyu Nage.

The session ended with Zagi Kokyu Ho as well as Haishin Undo.

Sensei reiterated the importance of Tsugi Ashi as opposed to 'hopping' and 'jumping about' when executing a technique.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-MICHUKI Leon

-Anthony

-KAMAU Maurice

-Several 'regulars'

-MWAKIO Sammy

P.S.All those intending to be graded can come and get a copy of the forms containing information on the grading fees,etc. that were handed over to me by Mr.Futaki as we prepare for grading next year (D.V.)

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,AUGUST 4 @ THE SAME VENUE

Visit to Kenya by Japan Aikikai instructors

Today morning I received a call from Mr. Futaki of the Japan Information and Culture Centre who confirmed that a team of instructors from the Japan Aikikai will be in Kenya in the month of February next year (2016) and here is a summary of their schedule:

Wednesday, February 17, 2016: Arrival in Kenya.

Thursday, February 18, 2016: Aikido class/session.

Friday, February 19, 2016: Grading exercise.

Saturday, February 20, 2016: Aikido workshop/demonstration open to the general public.

N.B. For all those who would like to be graded, be informed that a fee will be charged for this purpose depending on your level.

More details will be made available once received.

Tuesday, July 28, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Tom Sempai took us through a vigorous warm up session focused mainly on cardio exercises since it has been noted a good number of us "pant" during the session and are usually out of breath before the end of the session.

After the warm up session followed a series of Ukemi and breakfalls before we embarked on the following techniques:

-Katatedori Kokyu Ho.

-Katatedori Kokyu Nage.

-Chudan Tsuki Ikkyo Omote.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-WAITITU Vanessa

-NJOGU Anthony

-KAMAU Maurice

-Two newcomers who watched throughout the session.

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,JULY 30 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, July 23, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

The turnout was smaller compared to the past three weeks or so but nevertheless, the session went on beginning with Tom Sempai's warm up session which included Ikkyo Undo among other warm up drills.

After a session of Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Suwari Waza and Tachi Waza followed by Gyaku Ukemi and Yoko Ukemi, the attacks/techniques of the day were as follows:

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote first from the static stance then from a 'real' Shomen Uchi attack.

-Katatedori Kokyu Ho.

-Katatedori Kokyu Nage.

We wrapped up the session with Zagi Kokyu Ho.

Toshiyuki Sensei advised us to first learn the basics such as proper stance and proper execution of an attack/a technique before going a step further and learning the name of an attack/technique.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-MICHUKI Leon

-KAMAU Maurice

-NJOGU Anthony

-A first timer in Aikido

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION: TUESDAY, JULY 28 @ THE SAME VENUE

P.S. Kindly requesting all those intending to be graded in the near future to give their full names which will be included in the register which will then be used in calculating the number of hours, days,etc. one has attended.

Tuesday 21st July Aikido Studying Session at the JIC

It was another good attendance today graced by the helpful guidance of our Yudansha Toshiyuki san. The theme of today was going back to the basics and executing the pillars of Aikido techniques the correct way.
The class started with warm ups/ calisthenics:

Funikogi Undo- Boat rowing exercise
Sayu Undo- Raising hands to side motion then slightly slanting.
Tekubikosa Undo- Swinging hands to center of navel up and down
Tekubi Undo- Kotegaeshi, Ikkyo, Sankyo, Nikkyo, Shaking hands up and down
Ikkyo Undo- raising both hands up as motion of raising sword with left foot forward then change to right
Zengo Undo- raising both hands up,facing forward and rear alternating.
Mae Ukemi- Rolling/ Falling forward
Ushiro Ukemi- Rolling/ Falling backward

Toshiyuki san pointed out correct positioning when performing a fall and how to protect one's self through correct body positioning. He said in Aikido triangle stance ensures stability and protection of vitals.
We were also reminded of the very importance etiquette and the correct ways of performing Seiza and bowing before and after training.
When performing Mae and Ushiro Ukemi, always stay on a single line. Rolling hand should be slightly inside the leading leg or between the middle leading of feet of leading leg. Roll diagonally on a straight line.

When in Seiza, for men the distance(Maai) between the knees should be two fists, While women should have knees closed together. Both hands should be on laps and back straight. When bowing to opponent, eye contact shifts to few inches in front while you show him top of your head in trust (etiquette). Sit tightly on your instep toes down with right big toe over the left. 

Techniques:

Katatedori Ikkyo Omote- Same side wrist grab, 1st pinning technique front version.

Katatedori Ikkyo Ura- Same side wrist grab, 1st pinning technique circular version

Katadori Ikkyo Omote- Same side shoulder grab, 1st pinning technique front version

Katatdori Ikkyo Ura- Same side shoulder grab, 1st pinning technique circular version

In either of the Motions Omote or Ura we should use the feet movement and waist instead of hand actions after feigning an attack/Atemi to destabilize the Uke and moving to deliver the Ikkyo motion.

KatateKosadori Kotegaeshi - Cross hand grab, Wrist turn throw and pin.

We finished the session by doing a Kokyu dosa
.
Thank you for all your participation today and lets do this again on Thursday 24th July at JIC Upperhill.

Hombu Dojo grading examination system

Some of the newcomers had requested a link to the Hombu Dojo grading requirements.

Well, here is the link:

http://www.aikikai.or.jp/eng/information/review.html

Thursday, July 16, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

A good number of first timers showed up for the Aikido session and watched from the 'touch line' as we went through the paces.

Tom Sempai guided us through the warm up session which also included Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Suwari Waza and Tachi Waza.

We also went through a session of Kokyu Nage whereby Uke would 'attack' Tori and Tori would respond using Kokyu Nage thereby 'forcing' Uke to do a breakfall.

With the guidance of Toshiyuki Sempai, Tom Sempai had the following techniques in store for the day:

-Tai no Henko followed by Sokumen Irimi Nage.

-Ryote dori Tenchinage.

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Kote Gaeshi Omote.

-Katatedori Uchi Kaiten Nage.

-Katatedori Soto kaiten Nage.

The day's session ended with Zagi Kokyu Ho.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-MICHUKI Leon

-MUTHII Joshua

-A number of new comers

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,JULY 21 @ THE SAME VENUE

Jour de la Bastille session at the JICC Conference Room

Tom Sempai kicked off the session by briefing us on the pillars of Aikido and the important role they play in Aikido.

He then took us through the warm up session that included among others the Tenkan motion, Tai no Tenkan as well as the opening of a Shomen Uchi attack.

The attacks/techniques of the day were as follows:

-Katatedori Kokyu Ho.

-Katatedori Soto Kaiten Nage.

-Katatedori Uchi Kaiten Nage.

-Various openings following a Tanto attack to the solar plexus.

-Chudan Tsuki Kote Gaeshi.

We wrapped up the session with Zagi Kokyu Ho.

Tom Sempai stressed on the importance of the basics without which one cannot be successful in executing the various Aikido attacks/techniques.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-MICHUKI Leon

-NJOROGE Walter

-OKUMU Julius

-BOKEA Joseph

-WAITITU Vanessa

-'Familiar Aikido enthusiasts'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,JULY 16 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, 9th, July Session at JIC

Good Class this Thursday evening, Presence of more enthusiastic Aikidokas both old and new members. The class was lively and rigorous from the onset of Aiki Taiso.
Sam san took the class through a challenging Taiso movements with a combination of some military drills like crawls and knuckle push ups.
We were reminded to always adhere to the Aikido training etiquette all the time when on the mat. Precisely the need to seiza properly on the mat and also waiting on the side to be allowed on the mat when you come in late. The right etiquette involves Seiza at the threshold of the mat and then bowing towards the Kamiza/ Shomen.

TECHNIQUES

The ukes involved in todays demonstration were, Sam, Joshua, and Walter.

Reminder of last Tuesday's Techniques:
- Katate Dori Ikkyo- Same side wrist grab, 1st Pinning technique.
- Kata Dori Ikkyo- Same side shoulder grab, 1st Pinning technique.
- Katate Kosa tori Kotegaeshi- Cross hand wrist grab, twist and throw/ Pin.
- Katate Dori Kotegaeshi- Same side wrist grab, twist and throw/ Pin.

Today's Techniques
- Katate Dori Sankyo- Same side wrist grab, 3rd Pinning technique.
- Kata Dori Sankyo- Same side shoulder grab, 3rd Pinning technique.
-Ushiroryo Kata Dori Sankyo- Both shoulder grab from behind, 3rd Pinning technique/ Nage waza.
-Ushiro Katate Dori kubishime sankyo- Wrist grab from behind and rear choke,3rd Pinning/ Nage waza

Goshin Waza- Applications

1. How to escape from a grab from two assailants on both sides, each holding both wrists in Moroto dori.  Apply Moroto dori Kokyu ho san( Breath throw with sankyo)

2.How to escape from a grab by three assailants, both sides and from the back. Both wrists held in Moroto dori. Apply Moroto dori Kokyu ho  ichi or Yon.

Jiyu Waza- Randori

We finished up with a three assailant randori with a rotation between Tom, Sam, Walter and Joshua. It was lively and intense.

Thanks to all that participated in today's training and i encourage us to perfect our basics and attend the practice every week. Next session on Tuesday 14th at JIC. For those who had photo opportunity with Kawakami Sensei.

Tuesday, July 7, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Tom Sempai was the 'Aikido general' for the duration of the whole session and he began by taking us throught the warm up session that also featured Tai Sabaki, Funakogi Undo as well as Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Suwari Waza and Tachi Waza.

Tom Sempai also took us through a thorough Ukemi session (sort of Kakarigeiko) whereby Uke would approach him and grab both hands and Tom Sempai being the Tori would turn the hips (Ryote dori Kokyu Nage) and 'force' Uke to do Mae Ukemi.

TECHNIQUES FEATURED:

-Katatedori Ikkyo Omote, Ura.

-Kata dori Ikkyo Omote, Ura (static & dynamic versions).

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Kote Gaeshi (two versions).

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Kokyu Nage.

-A session of Jiyu Waza featuring Tom Sempai, Joshua Kohai and myself which left me sweating profusely.

Tom Sempai insisted on the importance of basics which will go a long way in creating a good foundation for Aikido learning.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-MUTHII Joshua

-OKUMU Julius

-WAITITU Vanessa

-'Regular members'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,JULY 9 @ THE SAME VENUE

Kawakami Sensei 'farewell' session on Thursday, July 2, 2015 @ the JICC Conference Room

Kawakami Sensei's two week stay in Kenya comes to an end this Sunday July 5 and the usual Nairobi traffic snarl ups nearly messed up Sensei's planned 'explosive' session but luckily he was able to come before the session ended and it was a fantastic session.

Tom Sempai began by taking us through Aiki Taso which also included Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Tachi Waza and Suwari Waza before he kicked off the session with Tsuki Ikkyo Omote.

Kawakami Sensei took over the rest of the session with the following techniques:

-Tsuki Kote Gaeshi (two versions)

-Tsuki Ikkyo Omote (two versions)

-Tsuki Yonkyo Omote

-A different version of Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote

Kawakami Sensei advised us to continue practising and learning from mistakes as it is the only way to improve on our Aikido skills.

At the end of the session, Joshua Kohai presented Sensei with some gifts which were bought with some money we all contributed after last Tuesday's session as a thank you to Sensei for taking time off to teach us Aikido.

Sensei's daughter and grand daughter were also present to grace the 'farewell ceremony'.

We wish Sensei a safe journey back home to Japan and look forward to having him back soon.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KAWAKAMI Masayuki

-AGUTA Tony

-KIBE Jason

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-MICHUKI Leon

-MUTHII Joshua

-WAITITU Vanessa

-MURAGURI Herman

-MAMBO Stephen

-Various 'Aikidoists'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,JULY 7 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, June 30, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Kawakami Sensei was present and after taking us through the warm up session that included Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Tachi Waza as well as Mae Shikko, Joshua Kohai and I were 'graded' by Sensei on various attacks/techniques before we 'got down to business' with the following techniques:

-Tsuki Ikkyo Omote (two versions)

-Tsuki Kote Gaeshi (two versions)

-Shorter version of Morote Dori Nikyo (in two versions)

Sensei demonstrated various ways of executing various techniques such as Kote Gaeshi and Shiho Nage and also demonstrated Shiho Nage using two Uke.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KAWAKAMI Masayuki

-KIYAGA Ben

-KIBE Jason

-MICHUKI Leon

-MUTHII Joshua

-OKUMU Julius

-WAITITU Vanessa

-MAMBO Stephen

-NJOROGE Anthony

-Two newcomers

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,JULY 2 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, June 25, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

We had a brief warm up session which also featured Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Suwari and Tachi Waza before Tom Sempai guided us through the following techniques:

-Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote and Ura respectively.

-Hanmi Handachi Waza Shiho Nage.

-Chudan Tsuki Shiho Nage Omote/Ura.

-Kata Dori Sankyo Omote and Ura respectively.

-Ushiro Kata Dori sankyo.

We wrapped up the session with Zagi Kokyu Ho.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-NJROROGE Walter

-MAMBO Stephen

-A sizeable turnout of 'regulars'

-Two newcomers who joined the session

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,JUNE 30 @ THE SAME VENUE

TUESDAY TRAINING

 Another wonderful Tuesday 23rd on the mat with Kawakami Sensei at the Japanese Information Center at UpperHill. It was a full house with many seniors and juniors in attendance and the Aikido spirit of training and assisting each other in understanding techniques and movements was in abundance tonight.              

sensei Kawakami Started off the Class with Calisthenics and then techniques.

CALISTHENICS

Ikkyo Undo- wrist exercise 

Nikkyo Undo- wrist exercise 

Sankyo Undo- wrist exercise

Kotegaeshi Undo- wrist exercise 

Shikko- walking on knees

Ukemi- forward (Mae) & backward (Ushiro) rolling/ falling

Basic stretching, horse stance and side lunges.

TECHNIQUES

SHIHO NAGE- Four directional Throw

1.Kata dori shihonage omote- 1st teaching four directional throw, in front of Uke.

2.Kata dori shihonage -2nd tech using head going outside under uke's arm as nage, to ground.

3.Katate dori shihonage omote- 1st teaching four directional throw from gyaku hanmi.

4.Katate dori shihonage ura- 2nd teaching four directional throw from gyaku hanmi, behind uke.

5.Ushirokata dori shihonage omote- shoulder grab from behind four directional throw 1st teaching.

6.Ushirokata dori shihonage 2nd- grab from behind four directional throw under uke with head.

7.Hanmi handachi kata dori- nage in seiza and uke standing shoulder grab.

8.Hanmi handachi katate dori- nage in seiza and uke standing same side wrist grab four directional throw.

NIKKYO- 2nd Pinning technique

1.Katate dori Nikkyo omote- 2nd pinning technique 1st version, front of uke.

2.Katare dori Nikkyo ura- 2nd pinning technique 2nd version, behind uke.

YONKYO- 4th Pinning technique

1.Katate dori yonkyo- same side wrist grab 4th pinning technique.

2.Kata dori yonkyo- same side shoulder grab 4th pinning technique.

Applications in JIYU WAZA

Kawakami Sensei later on performed Jiyuwaza from sitting position. His Uke was Ben.

-Shihonage omote and Ura- four directional throw

-Kotegaeshi -wrist throw

-Sankyo 3rd pin & nage waza.

-Uchi Kaiten nage

-Ryote dori versions of kotegaeshi, shihonage, kokyunage.

Continue coming on the mat and improve your Aikido.

Wonderful session!

Great thanks again to Kawakami Sensei's Study and reminder of the need to establish good understanding in basics especially 'Tai sabaki'( Hand/Body position) and 'Ashi Sabaki'( foot position movement)in doing all the Kinonagare ( fluid form when techniques are done in motion). Thanks also to his constant reminder that in study, Aikidokas have to demonstrate honesty in commitment by performing the full attack as in Uke and Executing the full technique as in Nage.
For the Thursday 18th class i enjoyed the whole session a lot especially interchanging roles amongst the juniors and seniors. I would say performing Kokyu ho in variations with Toshi san was enjoyable and challenging when trying to get around his energy center.
Some Challenging Versions of Kaiten nage (rotary throw) Kawakami Sensei did are as follows:
- Katate dori Uchi Kaiten nage,( Going under Uke's armpit)
- Katate dori Soto Kaiten nage,( from outside Uke's holding hand, while sliding out)
- Ushiro ryote dori Kaiten nage,( wrist grasp from behind)
- tai no tenkan uchi Kaiten nage,( leading uke then tenkan going under Uke's armpit to perform throw)
Lets continue showing up for study and improve our techniques by helping one another with gladness,'Onegai-Shimasu' the Aikido way.

Thursday, June 18, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Kawakami Sensei arrived early and on time as he always does and took us through the entire session beginning with the warm up session including his famous warm ups whereby one touches the shoulder to the ground while spreading the legs on the 'tatami'.

After the warm up session, Kawakami Sensei took us through the following attacks/techniques:

From Tachi Waza:

-Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote & Ura respectively.

-Kata dori Shiho Nage Omote (two versions).

-Yokomen Uchi Shiho Nage Omote.

-Shomen Uchi Shiho Nage Omote.

-Ryote dori Shiho Nage Omote.

-Uchi Kaiten Nage (two versions).

-Tsuki Shiho Nage.

From Suwari Waza:

-Zagi Kokyu Ho.

-Shiho Nage Omote.

-Kokyu Ho.

-Kokyu Nage version.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KAWAKAMI Masayuki

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-KIBE Jason

-AGUTA Tony

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-MUTHII Joshua

-A sizeable turnout of 'regulars'

-One newcomer

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,JUNE 23 @ THE SAME VENUE

#Gi things

In the bus this morning,a young lady asked me which martial art I practice.
She had seen my gi and belt which were overhanging in my bag.
She practices Karate and Aikido and was pleasantly suprised to learn,
I'm an aikidoka.
She used to a student at the  Saints School in Sagana and attended the
Aikido classes there.
I gave her timings,directions to the dojo at the Embassy and our blog address.
Hopefully,she will be joining us soon.

Moral of the Story-Don't be afraid to have your gi been visible in public;-)

Tuesday, June 16, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Due to the unpredictable nature of Nairobi traffic, I arrived 30 minutes late which usually infuriates me but all in all, I did not loose out on much.

I found the warm up session already over and Kawakami Sensei was present taking everyone through Katatedori Ikkyo Omote.

The rest of the day's session consisted of:

-Kata dori Ikkyo and Sankyo Omote respectively

-Kata dori Ikkyo Ura

-Katatedori Ikkyo Omote and Ura respectively

Kawakami Sensei also demonstrated a number of other techniques from a Kata dori hold for example Kaiten Nage and a front choke.


ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KAWAKAMI Masayuki

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-KIYAGA Ben

-AGUTA Tony

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-MICHUKI Leon

-MUTHII Joshua

-WAITITU Vanessa

-A host of other Aikido enthusiasts

-MWAKIO sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,JUNE 18 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, June 11, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Kawakami Sensei arrived early as usual and was accompanied by his granddaughter who is destined to be a great Aikido Sensei in the years to come.

After the warm up session, we went through Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Tachi Waza follwoed by the following:

-Katatedori Kote Gaeshi (two versions)

-Ryote dori Kote Gaeshi

-Ushiro Ryote dori Kote Gaeshi

Sensei also demonstrated various techniques from a Katatedori stance including the dreaded Katatedori Nikyo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KAWAKAMI Masayuki

-KIYAGA Ben

-AGUTA Tony

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-MICHUKI Leon

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-A large turnout of regulars

-Two newcomers

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,JUNE 16 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, June 9, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Masayuki Kawakami Sensei is back again and as was the case last year, the session was thrilling with lots of tapping out and moans of pain!

Kawakami Sensei took us through the warm up session which included some difficult feats including touching one's shoulder on the 'tatami' while spreading the legs wide as well as getting up from a seated position 'Kawakami style'.

The techniques Sensei guided us through were as follows:

-Ai hanmi Katatedori Kote Gaeshi Omote.

-Katatedori Ikkyo and Nikyo Omote respectively.

-Kata dori Ikkyo and Nikyo Omote respectively.

Later on, I had a chance to speak with Sensei as he waited for his taxi and he informed me that he has had a passion for Aikido for the last 47 years and that back home he teaches Aikido.

He hinted that this time he might be around for one month and he shall inform us incase of any changes to his schedule.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KAWAKAMI Masayuki

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-WAITITU Vanessa

-A large turnout of 'Aikido enthusiasts'

-MWAKIO Sammy

OKAERI NASAI SENSEI!

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,JUNE 11 @ THE SAME VENUE

Sad news

T.K. Chiba sensei passed away yesterday, 5th June 2015. His legacy lives in us.

Thursday, June 4, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

It was one unique session bearing in mind that 90% of those present were first timers.

Having arrived late due to the usual unpredictable Nairobi transport system, we were only able to warm up for about ten minutes before proceeding with the rest of the session under the guidance of Toshiyuki Sensei which consisted of the following:

-Shomen Uchi (static) Ikkyo Omote.

-Katatedori Kokyu Nage.

Sensei gave the first timers a brief introduction about Aikido, the importance of Rei as well as Ukemi among other important points.

We wrapped it up with Haishin Undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-A large turnout of first timers

-MWAKIO Sammy

I take this golden opportunity once again to heartily congratulate our dear Sensei and friend Mateusz Waga as well as Piotr Masztalerz on their promotion to the next level. Having last graded in 2012, I have even forgotten how it feels to be promoted....LOL

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,JUNE 9 @ THE SAME VENUE

tuesday,june 2,2015 session at the JICC conference


we went through a moderate warm-up session guided by sempai mwakio and practised,
mae ukemi,gyaku  ukemi and yoko  ukemi not forgetting shikko-ho waza.



walter kohai guided us through the following wazas;

shomen uchi-ikkyo    omote and ura

yokomen uchi-shihonage      omote and ura

yokomen  uchi-kokyunage

ushiro  ryotetori-kotegaeshi


we ended the session with hanshin undo

attendance list:

walter njoroge 
samy mwakio
michuki leon
vanessa waititu
nyang'or vincent
julius ukumu
and other aikido enthusiasts

next session;thursday,june 4 @the same venue



the art of aikido consist of never being concerned with victory or defeat,with strength or weakness,of not moving one step forward,nor one step backward,of the enemy not seeing me and me not seeing the enemy.penetrating to that which is fundamental before the separation of heaven and earth where yin and yang cannot reach,one instantly attains proficiency in the art.

(the true and wondrous sword of tai-a)

Greetings from Poland

Hey, guys. Habari?

Just a quick update from Poland.

This weekend we had a seminar and Piotr was promoted to rokudan (6th dan), I passed the test for sandan (3rd).

Hope you all are well. Warm greeetings

Thursday, May 28, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

We went through a moderate warm up session which was followed by Mae Ukemi, Gyaku Ukemi and Yoko Ukemi in preparation for the day's techniques which were focused on Ukemi and breakfalls.

Tom Sempai guided us through the following:

-Basic body movement (Tai Sabaki).

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Kokyu Nage.

-Ushiro Ryote Dori Sankyo and Juji Garami (both Omote) respectively.

-Morote Dori Juji Garami.

-A host of various openings from the Ushiro Ryote Dori stance.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-NJOROGE Walter

-MAMBO Stephen

-Brian

-Several 'familiar faces'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY, JUNE 2 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, May 26, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

After a lengthy warm up session that also included Mae Ukemi from both Suwari and Tachi Waza as well as Mae Ukemi using two volunteers as 'obstacles',we went through the main session which we were guided throguh by Walter Kohai and included the following:

-Katatedori Kote Gaeshi.

-Morote dori Shiho nage Omote & Juji garami respectively.

-Kata dori Nikyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Hanmi handachi waza Kata gatame version.

We wrapped it up with Zagi Kokyu Ho

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-MICHUKI Leon

-MUTHII Joshua

-NJOROGE Walter

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-MURAGURI Herman

-Several familiar faces yet to register

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,MAY 28 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, May 21, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

I took over the warm up session and being a strong advocate for physical fitness, I was drenched in sweat by the time the warm up session was over which included my favourite wheelbarrow push ups as well as Mae and Ushiro ukemi from Suwari Waza not forgetting Mae and Ushiro Shikko.

Tom Sempai took us through the techniques and we began with Tai Sabaki followed by Ikkyo Undo and how to neutralise a Shomen Uchi attack.

What followed was:

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote.

-Ai Hanmi katatedori Kote Gaeshi Omote.

-Chudan Tsuki Kote Gaeshi.

The session ended with Randori and it was a wake up call especially for myself having being caught off guard by a Tsuki attack which landed on my torso! I realised we needed to do more Randori to acquaint ourselves with real life situations.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-ODHIAMBO Tom

-MICHUKI Leon

-OKUMU Julius

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-WAITITU Vanessa

-WAMBUGU Michael

-Several 'Aikido enthusiasts'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,MAY 26 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, May 19, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

The 'early Aikidoka' began with a jog around the room before Vincent Kohai took us through the warm up session that also included Mae Ukemi from both Suwari & Tachi Waza as well as Ushiro Ukemi from Suwari Waza. The warm up session culminated with Mae Shikko.

We kicked off the training session with Ai Hanmi Katatedori Ikkyo Omote before Kitayama Sensei guided us through the following:

-Yokomen Uchi Shiho Nage Omote & Ura respectively.

-Various techniques from a Yokomen Uchi attack eg.Kote Gaeshi, Irimi Nage, Kokyu Nage and Kaiten Nage.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-OKUMU Julius

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-WAITITU Vanessa

-'Familiar regulars'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,MAY 21 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, May 14, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Ben Sempai took us through the first quarter of the session which kicked off with a brief warm up session followed by the following techniques:

-Katatedori Kokyu Nage.

-The opening of Uchi Kaiten Nage.

For the remainder of the session, we went through the following:

From Suwari Waza:

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

From Tachi Waza:

-Soto Kaiten Kata Gatame.

-Katatedori Uchi Kaiten Nage.

We ended the session with Zagi Kokyu Ho followed by Haishin Undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KIYAGA Ben

-NJOROGE Walter

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-WAITITU Vanessa

-Several 'familiar faces'

-One newcomer

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY, MAY 19 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, May 12, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

It has been raining since Monday and as is the norm, it is always chaotic outside but all in all, we had a good session with Joshua Kohai taking us through the warm up session followed by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Suwari & Tachi Waza.

Joshua Kohai began the first part of the session with the following techniques:

-Ryokata dori Nikyo Ura.

-Ushiro Ryote dori Sankyo Omote.

The second part of the session consisted of the following techniques:

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Kote gaeshi.

-A front choke from the opening of Katatedori Kokyu ho.

-Hanmi Handachiwaza Shiho Nage.

The session concluded with Haishin Undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MUTHII Joshua

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-WAMBUGU Michael

-A handful of 'regulars'

-Two newcomers to Aikido

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY, MAY 14 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, May 7, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

It was yet another Thursday and after going through a lengthy warm up session including Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Suwari Waza, we went through the following attacks/techniques:

From Suwari Waza:

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

From Tachi Waza:

-Shomen Uchi Sankyo Omote.

-Yokomen Uchi Shiho Nage Omote.

Zagi Kokyu Ho and Haishin Undo wrapped up the session.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MICHUKI Leon

-A handful of 'newbies'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY, MAY 12 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, May 5, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Grading was ongoing in the main hall for our Karate colleagues thus we were glad to have Ben Sempai lead us through the whole session.

A light warm up session was followed by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Suwari Waza as well as Mae and Ushiro Shikko then the following attacks/techniques crowned it all:

From Suwari Waza:

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

From Tachi Waza:

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Various finishing moves from a Shomen Uchi attack.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KIYAGA Ben

-MUTHII Joshua

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-MURAGURI Herman

-'Nameless' Aikido enthusiasts

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY, MAY 7 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, April 30, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

The 'Sensei of the day' was Joshua Kohai and after a great body work out featuring among others some squats.

Afterwards, he took us through the following techniques:

-Katatedori Kokyu Ho.

-Ryote dori Ude Kimenage and Shiho Nage Ura respectively.

-The opening for Tenchi Nage.

-Katatedori Rokkyo.

We wrapped it up with haishin Undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MUTHII Joshua

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-WAMBUGU Michael

-Several 'Aikido enthusiasts'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,MAY 5 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, April 28, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

It was all muddy and wet outside but inside the 'dojo', we were sweating profusely.

We had a good body work out featuring my favourite '40 push ups in a minute'.

After going through Mae & Ushiro Ukemi from both Suwari & Tachi Waza, we braced ourselves for the following techniques all executed from the Ai Hanmi Katatedori stance:

-Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Nikyo Omote & Ura respectively.

The session came to a close with Zagi Kokyu Ho.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MUTHII Joshua

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-ODHIAMBO Tom who joined Aikido some time back but has been away due to commitments

-WAMBUGU Michael

-MURAGURI Herman

-Several 'Aikido enthusiasts'

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY, APRIL 30 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, April 23, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Walter Kohai was at it again taking us through the paces and after warming ourselves up with some exercises as well as Mae Ukemi and the basics of Ushiro Ukemi followed by Shikko, the following attacks/techniques were on the day's "menu":

-Morote Dori Ikkyo Omote, Kote Gaeshi and Shiho Nage respectively.

-Mune Tsuki Kote Gaeshi.

-Kata Dori Nikyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Yokomen Uchi Shiho Nage Omote.

-A version of Ushiro Kubishime Sankyo (covering Tori's mouth with one hand and holding his/her wrist with the other hand).

We wrapped it up with Zagi Kokyu Ho as well as Haishin Undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MICHUKI Leon

-MUTHII Joshua

-NJOROGE Walter

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-MAMBO Stephen

-Khadija

-Several newcomers

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY, APRIL 28 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, April 21, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Having been away for a whole week due to illness, I was glad to be back although I was not completely physically prepared, I took my chances and gladly, I was not disappointed.

We kicked off the session with a warm up session followed by Mae Ukemi from Tachi Waza as well as mae Shikko.

The attack(s)/techniques of the day were as follows:

-Shomen Uchi Sankyo Omote

-Ryote dori Tenchi nage

-Ryote dori Shiho nage Omote

-Kata gatame through the opening of Ai hanmi katatedori Ikkyo Omote

Zagi kokyu ho & Haishin undo wrapped up the session for the day.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MICHUKI Leon

-NJOROGE Walter

-BOKEA Joseph

-MURAGURI Herman

-MAMBO Stephen

-A number of newcomers

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,APRIL 23 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, April 09, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Walter Kohai was in charge of the session and truly speaking, it was fast paced.

Vincent Kohai took us through the warm up session including Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Tachi and Suwari Waza before Walter Kohai guided us through the following attack(s)/techniques:

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote & Ura(Shomen Uchi from the static stance).

-Morote dori:Kote Gaeshi, Ikkyo Omote and Shiho Nage respectively.

-Hanmi handachi Shiho Nage.

The session ended with Zagi Kokyu ho.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-NJOROGE Walter

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-MAMBO Stephen

-WAMBUGU Michael

-A handful of newcomers

-An Israeli Karate Sensei

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,APRIL 14 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, April 07, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

After a work out session followed by Mae Ukemi from both Suwari & Tachi Waza as well as a tutorial on how to fall back safely, we kicked off the session which concentrated on the following:

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote

-Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote

Kitayama Sensei pointed out some very important points such as Uke maintaining eye contact with Tori and whenever in the Katatedori stance, Uke should always be alert and assume that Tori is holding a weapon, etc.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-MICHUKI Leon

-NJOROGE Walter

-BOKEA Joseph

-WAITITU Vanessa

-MURAGURI Herman

-Two 'new faces' who took part in the session

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,APRIL 9 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, April 02, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Vincent Kohai was our day's Sensei and after getting us through the warm up session as well as Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Suwari Waza plus shikko.

The following are the attacks/techniques we practised:

-Chudan tsuki kote gaeshi omote

-Jodan tsuki kote gaeshi omote & ura respectively

-Shomen uchi ikkyo omote

The session ended with Zagi kokyu ho.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-MATINDI Sarah

-NJOROGE Walter

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-WAITITU Vanessa

-WAIRIMU Annalina(h)

-MAMBO Stephen

-WAMBUGU Michael

-Several newcomers

-MWAKIO Sammy

A VERY HAPPY EASTER TO ALL OF YOU!

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,APRIL 7 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, March 31, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

I was MIA last Thursday and made sure I did not miss out on this Tuesday's session which was packed with several newcomers although some later expressed interest in joining the Karate sessions beginning this coming Thursday.

After the warm up session, what followed was Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Suwari Waza and the following attack/techniques:

-Katatedori Uchi Kaiten Nage

-Yokomen Uchi Shiho Nage Omote

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Kote Gaeshi

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-NJOROGE Walter

-BOKEA Joseph

-WAITITU Vanessa

-MURAGURI Herman

-WANDIA Eunice

-WAKIBI James

-WANDIA

-A good number of newcomers

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,APRIL 2 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, March 24, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

The Tuesday session kicked off with a light warm up session followed by Mae Ukemi from Suwari Waza and Mae Shikko then the following techniques followed:

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori ikkyo Omote and Ura respectively.

-Shorter version of Nikyo from the Katatedori stance.

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Sankyo Omote.

The JICC was a beehive of activity since there was a Karate intake on this particular day hoping that the Aikido session will also have intakes twice or thrice yearly (just a thought).

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MICHUKI Leon

-BOKEA Joseph

-MURAGURI Herman

-Khadija

-Quite a sizeable number of newcomers.

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,MARCH 26 @ THE SAME VENUE

P.S.

A REMINDER ONCE AGAIN TO NEWCOMERS TO OBSERVE DOJO ETIQUETTE ESPECIALLY SITTING PROPERLY IN SEIZA, MINIMISE TALKING WHEN PERFORMING A TECHNIQUE AND ALWAYS ASKING FOR PERMISSION BEFORE LEAVING THE DOJO.

Thursday, March 19, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Douglas Kohai took us through the warm up session which included some body conditioning exercises as well as Ukemi before Jason Sempai took over the rest of the session which featured the following:

-From the Ai Hanmi Katatedori stance:

Ikkyo Omote and Ura respectively.

-From the Katatedori stance:

Shiho Nage Ura and Kote Gaeshi Ura respectively.

We ended the session with Haishin undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

KIBE Jason

OSORO Douglas

BOKEA Joseph

NYANG'OR Vincent

WAITITU Vanessa

MURAGURI Herman

A good number of newcomers

MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,MARCH 24 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, March 17, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Another week and new sessions and this particular session witnessed an additional number of Aikido newcomers which made it quite challenging to do Ukemi and the like.

After a brief warm up session followed by Mae Ukemi from Suwari Waza, we went through the following:

-Shomen Uchi Ikkyo Omote.

-Reverse Kote Gaeshi.

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Irimi Nage Omote.

The session ended with Haishin Undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MICHUKI Leon

-MUNGAI Kevin

-MURAGURI Herman

-WAITITU Vanessa

-WAMBUGU Michael

-WANDIA Eunice

-A number of newcomers

-MWAKIO Sammy

P.S.

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE A GI AND ARE INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING IN AN AIKIDO 'EXHIBITION' TO BE FEATURED LIVE ON QTV THIS COMING SATURDAY ON THE KISWAHILI SPORTS PROGRAMME "MWANASPOTI",KINDLY CONFIRM YOUR PARTICIPATION DURING THIS THURSDAY'S SESSION.OUR CHAIRMAN JASON SEMPAI IS THE ONE ORGANISING THE EVENT TO SHOWCASE AIKIDO LIVE ON TELEVISION.

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,MARCH 19 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, March 12, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

We kicked off the day's session with a warm up session followed by Mae Ukemi from both Suwari & Tachi Waza as well as Mae & Ushiro Shikko.

What followed were the following attacks/techniques:

-Shomen Uchi:Ikkyo(Omote & Ura) and Sankyo Omote respectively.

-Katatedori Irimi Nage.

The session came to a close with Haishin Undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MUTHII Joshua

-NJOROGE Walter

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-WAITITU Vanessa

-MURAGURI Herman

-A newcomer eager to practise Aikido

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,MARCH 17 @ THE SAME VENUE

P.S.

Those of you who are interested in reading more about Aikido, kindly check out the Aikido journal blog on the following link:

http://blog.aikidojournal.com/

Tuesday, March 10, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

It was good to have our chairman Jason Sempai training together with us and he did not disappoint.

After going through a brief session of Mae Ukemi from Suwari Waza, Jason Sempai guided us through the following techniques:

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Shiho Nage Omote & Ura respectively.

-Katatedori Kokyu Ho.

-Katatedori Uchi Kaiten Nage (special request)

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KIBE Jason

-MUTHII Joshua

-NJOROGE Walter

-MUNGAI Kevin

-WAKIBI James

-MURAGURI Herman

-WANDIA Eunice

-A number of new comers who will be included in the register soon

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,MARCH 12 @ THE SAME VENUE

Ki Aikido Documentary - English version

Thursday, March 5, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

After a warm up session that included push ups using the outside of the palms, the fists and on all fingers,we kicked off the session with the following techniques all executed from the Ai Hanmi Katatedori stance:

-Ikkyo Omote & Ura respectively.

-Nikyo Omote & Ura respectively.

More emphasis on Tenkan and Irimi is required.

The 'dojo' was packed so much that two lines had to be formed when performing Rei after ending the session.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-MICHUKI Leon

-NJOROGE Walter

-BOKEA Joseph

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-WAKIBI James

-MUNGAI Kevin

-WANDIA Eunice

-NEKESA Salome

-WAITITU Vanessa

-Michael

-A number of newcomers

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,MARCH 10 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, March 3, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

The session kicked off as is the tradition with a light warm up session followed by Ukemi whereby Douglas Kohai divided us into three groups:the most experienced,the ones with some experience and the least experienced and for those in the 'most experienced' group,we did Mae,Ushiro,Gyaku and any other Ukemi we could think of.

What followed thereafter was an intense round of Shikko which left many with hurting and bruised knee caps.

The techniques that followed were all executed from the Ai Hanmi Katatedori stance and they were:

-Shiho nage Omote.

-Ude kime nage.

-Irimi nage Omote.

The session ended with a good back stretch in the form of Haishin undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-OSORO Douglas

-MICHUKI Leon

-OKUMU Julius

-NYANG'OR Vincent accompanied by his colleague

-WAITITU Vanessa

-Salome

-MURAGURI Herman

-A newcomer who joined us for the first time althoguh the way she sat in seiza one would say she had practised martial arts before.

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,MARCH 5 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, February 26, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

We went through yet another sweaty workout courtesy of Douglas Kohai which also included Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from Tachi Waza.

Afterwards, we went through the following techniques:

-Kata gatame through the opening of Ai Hanmi Katatedori Ikkyo

-Katatedori Kokyu nage Omote

-Ryote dori Tenchi nage

We wrapped up the session with the now popular Haishin undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-OSORO Douglas

-MICHUKI Leon

-MUTHII Joshua

-NYANG'OR Vincent

-WAITITU Vanessa

-MWAKIO Sammy

-Several newcomers

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,MARCH 3 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, February 24, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Douglas Kohai took us through a vigorous warm up session that left many gasping for breath especially the one where one carries the other and does squats while standing.

After the warm up session, he took us through the following:

-Ushiro Ryotedori Sankyo Omote

-Tsuki Iriminage Ura

-Hanmi Handachi Shiho Nage

We wrapped up the session with Haishin undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-OSORO Douglas

-MICHUKI Leon

-MUTHII Joshua

-OKUMU Julius

-BOKEA Joseph

-WAITITU Vanessa

-Two ladies who joined us for the first time (one 'watched' from the sidelines)

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,FEBRUARY 26 @ THE SAME VENUE

Thursday, February 19, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

Douglas Kohai is on the way to becoming our "resident Aikido Sensei" and the session did not disappoint.

After a brief warm up session followed by Mae Ukemi in both Suwari & Tachi Waza, we began with Ai Hanmi Katatedori Ikkyo Omote before Douglas Kohai under the guidance of Toshiyuki Sensei took us through the following:

-Katatedori Uchi Kaiten nage Omote & Ura

-Shomen Uchi Nikyo Omote & Ura

-Ai Hanmi Katatedori Ikkyo Ura

We 'topped up' the session with Haishin Undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-KITAYAMA Toshiyuki

-OSORO Douglas

-MICHUKI Leon

-NJOROGE Walter

-BOKEA Joseph

-Vanessa

-Salome

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:TUESDAY,FEBRUARY 24 @ THE SAME VENUE

Tuesday, February 17, 2015 session at the JICC Conference Room

It is a big welcome to Sarah Sempai, one of the seniors members of Nairobi Aikikai who joined us for the session and it was good to see her once again.

Douglas Kohai took us through a light warm up session followed by Mae and Ushiro Ukemi from both Suwari and Tachi Waza and then the following:

-Katatedori Kote Gaeshi omote & Ura.

-Hanmi handachi Shiho Nage.

We wrapped up the session with Haishin Undo.

ATTENDANCE LIST:

-MATINDI Sarah

-OSORO Douglas

-OKUMU Julius

-MUNGAI Kevin

-Vanessa

-MWAKIO Sammy

NEXT SESSION:THURSDAY,FEBRUARY 19 @ THE SAME VENUE

**A reminder to those of you who plan to attend Aikido regularly and have not yet given out their names to do so ASAP.