What to expect
An opportunity to discover and practice authentic Western martial arts with highly qualified instructors and enthusiastic students.
Learning a martial art can be difficult and so we work hard to make the sessions as fun as they are demanding. At the SSA safety is paramount and that is why we teach control and discipline in everything that we do. This gives our students confidence in what they learn and how they can apply it.
Your first session
When you first come along you’ll be greeted and introduced to the others in attendance. If you know what weapon style you are interested in then one of the students will make sure that you have the right equipment from our academy kit and get you ready for the session. If you have come along to observe then you are more than welcome to do so and we’ll do our best to make sure that all of your questions are answered.
Lessons begin with the members forming a circle, facing inwards. This symbolises that all present are equals and that until the end of the session we focus on each other and not things outside of the academy. Then there is the salute and a warmup to get your muscles moving and relaxed.
Then it is on to the various lessons. This will be a combination of learning and practicing techniques and in time exchanges and freeplay.
To finish off each session we form another circle, salute the rest of the academy and generally change into fresh clothes.
As a group we have a strong sense of camaraderie and at the end of most sessions we’ll gather over some beverages to socialise and relive recent glories.
The wider community
For those that want to there are local and international events to travel to and participate in. We are fortunate to be part of a wider martial community and we greatly enjoy and appreciate those connections.