Kangeiko - Winter Practice 2010

Kangeiko training is intense aikido practice in extreme weather (winter). Its purpose is to discipline the body and mind so that this same spirit and intensity will carry on throughout the year.

Kangeiko training comes in several forms. Some dojos in Japan practice Aikido indoors with no heater. Other martial arts practice knee deep in the ocean or river. Aikido Shugyo Dojo practices its kangeiko outdoors in the form of a weapons class. Although it may be cold out, proper clothing and continuous movement makes the training less stressful to the body.

Overcoming the notion of “it’s too cold out” or “I don’t like winter” etc., is a good way to strengthen the mind under adverse conditions such as temperature, snow and a slippery surface. Training outdoors in winter also helps to breakup the monotony of long Canadian winters.

January is generally the time for kangeiko training. Miso soup and onigiri are typical Japanese snacks that follow the training. A little bit of sake is also part of the socializing after kangeiko training.