Our safety-first approach to running the dojo
Revised Operation & Rules
After a prolonged closure due to COVID-19, Notting Hill Aikido re-opened for classes in May 2021, with new systems in place to keep our community as safe as possible. While all restrictions have been formally lifted by the government as of February 22, 2022, we are keeping many of our safety protocols in place. Please ensure you read and understand the FAQs below before participating in live in-person classes at Notting Hill Aikikai.
In a nutshell:
Registration and payment of fees is online only.
You must book your class before coming to the dojo.
Everyone must complete the online waiver before participating in a class. This only needs to be completed once, however, you must notify us if any of the details provided have changed.
Please do not come to the dojo if you have any symptoms that may be associated with COVID-19.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are you doing to keep me safe at the Dojo?
We have identified and are implementing the following measures to ensure the safety of our members and visitors:
- When possible, the front and back doors and windows will be kept open to optimise fresh air flow through the dojo.
- We have a commercial grade air purifier operating during classes to improve air quality.
- We are regularly sanitizing high-touch areas such as counter surfaces, doorknobs, handles and light switches.
- We are cleaning the mats after classes with anti-viral solution.
- We are asking any students that have any symptoms associated with COVID-19 to stay away from the Dojo.
- We are reminding everyone to wash their hands before stepping on the mat, and after stepping off the mat.
- We have introduced mandatory booking for classes.
Do I have to be vaccinated?
You are welcome to train with us if you are not vaccinated. To keep everyone as safe as possible, we ask that any member of the dojo (vaccinated or not) who is aware they have been exposed to COVID, take a lateral flow test and show a negative result before training. In addition to this, it is expected that all members of the dojo will follow the most up to date government protocols with respect to COVID and testing.
Do I have to wear a mask?
Wearing a mask while training is optional.
Can I just show up to class?
No. Only students who have read and agreed to our registration and waiver form, and have paid and signed up for class, can attend. Everyone else will be turned away. Please note that kids enrolled in classes DO NOT need to book before coming to class.
Can I pay by the class only?
Yes, but only adults or those attending adult classes.
I am a visitor to London – can I come and train with you?
If you are a visitor and would like to train with us, contact Sensei in advance to make arrangements.
How do I pay for my class fees?
All fees must be made through the website unless you have made other arrangements with Sensei.
Adults: What does the monthly fee entitle me to?
Monthly membership entitles you to book any of the available classes for free. BUT BOOKING FOR EACH CLASS IS ESSENTIAL.
Do I need to have my own weapons?
- There are weapons available at the dojo for those who do not have their own. Ultimately we recommend you invest in your own set of weapons (bokken, jo and tanto) so that you can practice on your own as well as at the dojo.
- You can also purchase your own weapons through us or independently.
Are your classes also available on Zoom?
- We have now stopped offering our classes on Zoom.
I am a beginner – can I start classes with you now?
- We are accepting new members all the time. Please contact Sensei to discuss your best options for starting your training.
I am an adult paying for the month: Is there a limit to how many classes I can attend per week or month?
No, there is no limit. As long as there is space in a class you can book yourself in.
OK, I understand the new rules and I’m ready to proceed.
Next steps:
Pay Fees Online and/or
Book a Class (adults)