I liked Aikido because there were 'gears in the box'
What I mean is that each technique can be used to an appropriate level. If all you need is to get your attacker to back down by applying pain, that's what you do. If you need them to be incapacitated, that's what you do. If you need to break bones, that's what you do. The hard bit is getting the techniques ingrained into your muscle memory so they just happen without having to think - but that applies to all martial arts.
(Captain Placid Good at something, not doing it for free, Mon 4 Feb 2013, 22:08, Reply)

cool, theres a place nearish to me im thinking about gong to, im right on the boarder of london and surrey. any idea how much a lesson should cost? (pounds sterling)
(bruxia, Mon 4 Feb 2013, 22:13, Reply)

In Manchester for an hour and a half's lesson I pay about a fiver.
Depends on the lesson though, some of the advanced classes cost a bit more.

Some clubs try to tie you in on gym style membership contracts though, so be wary of that.
( Draconacticus Joystick waggler extraordinaire, Mon 4 Feb 2013, 22:57, Reply)