Paladin

Issue date: 3/17/06 Section: Diversions

Thanks to the likes of Chuck Norris, Mortal Kombat and the Ninja Turtles, many of our generation have grown up fancying the idea of learning to "kick some butt" through martial arts but have never developed it as more than a passing fantasy or form of entertainment.
Furman students are presented with a golden opportunity to take advantage of one of the free self-defense classes provided by AFS, including kung-fu and aikido.
Aikido, a modern Japanese martial art means "joining energy way." Rather than assuming an adversarial stance, aikido embodies the spirit of unity that self-defense hopes to achieve before conflict begins.
A defining assumption for aikido is that taking this mindset has profound effects on the way we experience the external world and the way we react to it.
Focusing on universal connection, aikido uses principles of energy and motion to redirect, neutralize and control attackers.
Students are taught to maintain "one-point" and "mushin." These terms refer to the physical and mental center-of-gravity for each person: the mid-section and clear-mindedness, respectively.
"Aikido teaches practical self-defense, but its true value goes deeper than that," Aikido Club president T.J. Blandford said, "Learning to relax and focus your body and mind is something that can be applied to anything in your daily life."
From the athletic field to the classroom to personal relationships, aikido principles apply to them all. It's all about respect, calmness and your connection to other people.
"I would definitely encourage anyone to learn about aikido," said Blandford, "The more I train, the more I am struck by how relevant it is to everything in my life."
Other students who have been practicing less than a year echo Blandford's assessment. Clyne Fisher called it "stress-relieving and empowering" and reiterated the applicability of its benefits in diverse areas of life.
The Furman Aikido club meets twice weekly in the PAC dance studio. Group training is Tuesday from 7 to 8 p.m. and instruction from Sensei Mark Stone is Thurday from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Substitute teachers include World Champion Ilena Shaner. Beginners are always welcome. Dress comfortably and be ready to de-stress.

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