|
Our Organization
Wind
of Change Aikido is an organization that promotes
the teaching of Kihara
Aikido, a system developed
by Mr. Karl Geis Shihan based on Tomiki Ryu Aikido. Michael
Denton (pictured below) is the head instructor of the Wind of
Change Aikido organization. As an instructor for over 10 years,
Michael greatly enjoys being a part of the growth, development
and positive change that people who study this wonderful martial
art experience.
The
Art of Aikido
Aikido is a responsive martial art in which the Aikidoka (one
who practices Aikido) uses off-balance and an attacker’s
own actions, strength and momentum to gain control of the attacker.
Physical strength and prowess is not only unnecessary to use
Aikido, but can be a limitation! Read more about Aikido here.
Statement
of Philosophy
I believe in teaching in a safe, positive, supportive,
open, and honest environment. I pursue the highest level of
excellence that I can achive in this art. I practice and expect
the highest ethical standards of myself and my students. I believe
in the power of gentleness.
Participation
Requirements
Aikido training is available for any person who is at least
16 years old.
Aikido can be easily and effectively practiced by people of
almost any age or size and often despite physical limitations
and still be highly effective. No matter who you are, you are
welcome!
|
Preparing
for Class
Starting out, wearing a t-shirt and sweat pants is fine.
Do not wear jewelry.
Do not wear heavy make-up or perfume/cologne.
Maintain
good personal hygiene. Do not eat a heavy meal prior to
practice.
|
|
|
If you decide
you want to pursue Aikido, you will need to purchase a
gi (uniform) prior to achieving 20 hours (yellow belt).
Both judo gi and karate gi are acceptable. These can be
bought online or in martial art supply stores. Gi cost
varies based on quality, usually around $35-60, but they
can cost more. I can help you locate one if you need assistance.
See the class manual
for more information on purchasing a gi.
|
|
Fee
Schedule
Instruction is free. I donate my time because I love the art.
I do incur some charges, however, as I continue teaching and
improve my own skills, so monetary contributions are welcome
(although not required).
Organizational
dues are $60 dollars a year for membership. This fee is not
required until you reach Green Belt (40 hours, approximately
in 4-5 months given three hours of practice a week). You may,
if you wish, pay this fee at any time prior. This membership
certifies your rank internationally with the organization and
allows you to participate in clinics and seminars.
Ranking costs additional money. These rates are subject to change
without notice: Yellow Belt -- $20 / Green -- $30 / 1st Brown
-- $45 / 2nd Brown -- $60 /
1st Brown -- $75 / 1st Black -- $150 / all other Black Belt
ranks cost more..
These costs are in addition to annual dues.
Instructor
Information
| |
I am ranked
Godan (5th Degree Black Belt) in the art of Aikido with
the Fugakukai International Aikido Association. I also
hold the rank of Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt) in Judo
with the United States Judo Association. I began studying
martial arts in college and have been instructing for
over 10 years. I was taught by Dr. John Usher, 6th Dan
Aikido, at the Mississippi State University Budo Club.
I am
ranked nikyu (2nd brown) in Shindo Muso Ryu Jyodo (staff
techniques).
I
have also received instruction at clinics from Mr. Karl
Geis Shihan, 10th Dan Aikido, Mr. Henry Copeland Shihan,
9th Dan Aikido, the late Mac McNease Shihan, 9th Dan Aikido,
and other fine teachers.
I love teaching Aikido and seeing the change it can create
in a person’s life. I work at the University of
North Carolina at Charlotte where I help develop programsfor
first-year students and teach courses in leadership. My
husband, Peter Thorsett, and I have lived in the Charlotte
area for four years. |
|
