Darlington Aikido Academy

General information

Darlington Aikido Academy (DAA) is a permanent Aikido dojo in Darlington town centre. We offer traditional Aikido classes for adults and juniors as well as offering one to one, weapons training and team building events.

The facility is open most days and benefits from a variety of very experienced instructors.

For beginners we offer a 'taster session' for free and then an introductory program which lasts about a month - which covers the basics in Aikido in a repetative manner. A good foundation is the key to future development and we ensure that the beginner gets what they need at their respective level from day one.

Our group is part of an international organisation called D.A.N. (Dynamic Aikido in the traditions of Master Andre Nocquet, 8th DAN) which has groups in Germany, France, Belguim as well as the north east England.

Master Nocquet was one of the first non Japanese Aikidoka to practice under the founder of Aikido, O'Sensei. D.A.N. is now under the guidence and direction of Sensei John Emmerson, 5th DAN who was a personal friend and student of Master Nocquet for over 20 years until his passing away in 1999.

DAA is owned and managed by Paul Emmerson, 4th DAN who has been practicing Aikido for over 23 years. The centre is also backed by a team of enthusiastic and willing people who all believe that 'Aikido has something to offer everyone' and they all share the same goal which is 'to practice and further develop Aikido' for the benefit of everyone.

WHAT IS AIKIDO?
On a physical level Aikido is an effective martial art incorporating a wide range of techniques, which can be used against armed, unarmed and multiple attackers. The difference between Aikido and many other martial arts rests in the manner and approach to training, which is basically co-operative rather than competitive.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF AIKIDO?
Aikido is so much more than just a martial art, so don't judge it before you try it. Our training offers: - Fitness; Flexibility; Weight Loss; Self Defence; Muscle Tone; Building Confidence; helps develop a clearer sense of perspective and so much more.

Aikido also helps you understand and develop base essentials in life such as: - Respect; Respect for others; Integrity; Discipline; Honour; Friendship; Calm; Honesty, Compassion and so much more.

Beginners welcome - come along and find out what it is all about. For more information contact Paul on 07723 037718 or 01388 774002