Iwama Ryu Aikido Australia

The environment within the dojo ensures all students train safely to the level of their ability whilst still learning effective martial skills. Whether an absolute beginner to martial arts, young or old there is a place for everyone. Michael Field Sensei expertly teaches Iwama Ryu weapons and open handed techniques, which are broken down to their most basic components and shown clearly to all. Sensei's experience and teaching style allow students to quickly grasp concepts and progress their abilities. Senior students appreciate Sensei's vast knowledge of Iwama style techniques and explanations of the integration between open handed and weapons practices. Now a black belt, I started training Aikido with a pre-existing back condition (over 12 years ago) and continue to train today - a testimony to Field Sensei and the students within his dojo.

Having a vague interest in the martial arts but not having ever been sporty or made any physical achievements in my life (and also being somewhat squeamish about pain), I happened upon Michael Field Sensei at a public demonstration.After training with him for a couple of years and then wandering off to do other (family, work) things, I returned fat and forty after a motorcycle accident.In the twelve years since, I have achieved a black belt in Aikido, a second degree black belt in Aikido AND a third degree black belt in Aikido and all I had to do was turn up and pay attention. Michael Field Sensei is a masterful teacher who cares for each and every student and is with them on every step of their journey.

I found my way to Field aikido quite by accident in 2002 (never thought I'd be into anything physical, let alone the martial arts). Between the quality of the teaching and the friendly, open, respectful nature of the students, I've found a discipline and friendships I expect to last a lifetime. Twelve years later, aikido is still full of physical and mental puzzles to solve and I love training as much as when I first started. Physically I've become much stronger, much more aware, and more fluid than I would have imagined. The club makes a point of looking after beginners at least as much as the more experienced students. If you are at all curious, you really should go along for the try-out lessons and see if it's for you. -- Ralph Becket

This is a great place to train in Aikido. Michael Field Sensei is an inspiring teacher, and he excels in passing his skills and knowledge to his students. There’s a great co-operative and respectful atmosphere at this dojo, with instructors and students working together to build each others strength and technique safely and surely. There is a focus on building solid and effective technique, and I’ve found that things I’ve learned here benefit many areas of my daily life. I found training enjoyable and invigorating and having trained for several years at this dojo, I highly recommend it.

This Aikido dojo embodies a safe, welcoming and supportive environment. There is a deep sense of respect between all members of the class. The inspiring sessions are run with great professionalism, however, they are not overly serious or boring and are often balanced with some thought provoking humour from Michael Field Sensei.From my personal experience, I would recommend this to those considering taking up a martial art for the first time.