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Name:

Martin Livingston

Rank:

2nd Dan

Style:

Shodokan Aikido (more commonly known as Tomiki, although Tomiki himself wanted his style named Shodokan). Also dabbled in TKD for 2 years

Main Style:

Aikido

Why is this your main style?

It's the one I started first as a 12 year old, and have now done it for more than half my life. I couldn't live without it now. I train because I enjoy it, not simply as a means to defend myself, so I'm not overly worried with going on the offensive, so an art dealing more with balance & restraint is more in keeping with my personality. Also I like flying through the air!

How long have you been training in the Arts?

12 years

Greatest personal achievement in the Arts to date?

Setting up and continuing to run a successful club. At the time, getting my Dan grade as a 17 year old would have been the answer, but the club has an effect on other peoples lives, while the grade is more of a singular thing.

Reason for continuing to train?

As before, I can't imagine life without it.

What else would you like to do and why?

I'll give Karate a go sometime, as this was where my parents met (so I suppose I was genetically fated to end up a Maist), otherwise I want to try as much as possible, although I think I'm now stuck firmly on the path of Aikido as my main art for life.

Is your style a 'complete' style?

In my opinion, no system is complete. It can and will always be adapted somewhere in the future. All you can do is take bits from various arts to create your own personal style. A wee guy isn't usually going to do too well at Sumo, but I defy anyone to tell Konishiki that his style wasn't great (for him).

Have you competed?

Yes, nothing spectacular though, just a couple of medals. Most Aikido styles don't believe in competition. That's their loss. Some of them need to keep a more open mind to other aspects of their art.

If so, in what?

Kata/Kumite Both. No major honours though. Various medals in regional competitions in the mid 90's, all for kata. I went to the World Championships in Osaka in 2001 with the GB Shodokan squad, which was an amazing experience, and we're currently building up to the next one in Leeds 2003.

Who you most admire in the Arts and why?

Anyone with the will to train dilligently. In terms of specific people, probably Phil Newcombe, who is the technical director of Shodokan Aikido GB, Nariyama shihan & Steve Evans, both of whom showed me at a young age that wee guys can still hold their own and become amongst the best in the world. I also have respect for anyone who puts up with me as their instructor!

Do you think it's appropriate for kyu grades to help teach? If so, why? If not, why not?

Yes - teaching is the best way to learn something yourself, as you have to make sure of the basics. Plus it provides confidence.

If you had your time over again, would you still be practicing the same Martial Art?

Absolutely.

 

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