Aiki Exercise Classes

A new sort of exercise class is springing up at various locations around Andover. The exercise system is based on gentle exercises used in Aikido, but involve no martial element.  The exercises are done to music and are suitable for people of all ages and for people in all states of health and fitness, as they do not involve strain of any kind.  Although gentle and non-strenuous the system combines ancient and modern knowledge to activate innate natural strength and fitness. Fostering a profound sense of relaxation and having an invigorating effect, parts of the exercise system could be likened to Tai Chi.
The person responsible for this recent growth is Annie Willens; a graduate of the Andover based Isshinkai Aikido Academy, assisted with project development and management support by the Andover Ki Trust.  As well as her training and qualifications as an Aikido Instructor, Annie has a strong background in dance.  Her innovative classes now have the endorsement of Aikido Master Koretoshi Maruyama of Japan, founder of Aikido Yuishinkai, the worldwide organisation of which the Academy and the Andover Aikido Club are part.  Similar classes will now be starting as far afield as Australia.
Annie's progress is being tracked by the Isshinkai Aikido Academy and the Andover Ki Trust working in partnership to develop a Training Programme for Aiki Exercise Instructors and a blue-print for success in running classes. 
Regular classes run by Annie can be found at the Aikido Centre in Fyfield on Mondays 6.30 - 7.30 and Wednesdays 5.30 - 6.30, at the DLO during lunchtimes on Mondays, at Goodworth Clatford Village Hall on Mondays from 2 - 3pm and at Enham on Thursdays from 6.30 -7.30.  Interested parties should also look out for new classes starting at the Depot in Andover, in Stockbridge and various taster sessions at Village Halls and in local companies.