<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" ?><feed xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"><title>Norwich Aikido Academy</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/"/><updated>2025-12-08T18:49:24+00:00</updated><id>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/</id><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author><entry><title>Escort Services in France: What You Need to Know About Paris Escorts and Strip Clubs</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/escort-services-in-france-what-you-need-to-know-about-paris-escorts-and-strip-clubs"/><summary>Understanding escort services in France requires separating myth from reality. While prostitution is legal, organized activity isn't. Paris has a hidden network of independent escorts and strip clubs where boundaries blur. Know the risks, the laws, and how to stay safe.</summary><updated>2025-12-08T18:49:24+00:00</updated><published>2025-12-08T18:49:24+00:00</published><category>Entertainment</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Ching Shih: The Most Powerful Pirate in History</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/ching-shih-the-most-powerful-pirate-in-history"/><summary>Ching Shih was the most powerful pirate in history, commanding over 80,000 pirates and 1,800 ships. She outsmarted the Qing Dynasty, created a fair pirate code, and retired richer than she started. Her story is one of strategy, leadership, and defiance.</summary><updated>2025-12-05T19:07:56+00:00</updated><published>2025-12-05T19:07:56+00:00</published><category>Entertainment</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Jimmy Cliff, Reggae Legend Behind 'The Harder They Come,' Dies at 81</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/jimmy-cliff-reggae-legend-behind-the-harder-they-come-dies-at"/><summary>Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff, known for 'The Harder They Come' and 'I Can See Clearly Now,' died at 81 in Kingston, Jamaica. A cultural icon who brought Jamaican music to the world, he was honored by the Prime Minister and inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.</summary><updated>2025-11-25T11:58:44+00:00</updated><published>2025-11-25T11:58:44+00:00</published><category>Entertainment</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>No. 1 UConn Crushes SCSU 105-39 in Final Preseason Tune-Up</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/no.-1-uconn-crushes-scsu-105-39-in-final-preseason-tune-up"/><summary>UConn crushed SCSU 105-39 in a preseason exhibition, with Azzi Fudd scoring 21 points and all 13 Huskies who played scoring. The defending champs prepare for their season opener against Louisville on ESPN.</summary><updated>2025-11-23T11:45:27+00:00</updated><published>2025-11-23T11:45:27+00:00</published><category>Sports</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Bulls Rally from 17-Point Deficit to Beat Heat 114-109 in Dramatic March Comeback</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/bulls-rally-from-17-point-deficit-to-beat-heat-114-109-in-dramatic-march-comeback"/><summary>The Chicago Bulls overcame a 17-point deficit to beat the Miami Heat 114-109 on March 8, 2025, led by Josh Giddey’s 26 points. In a November rematch, Miami crushed Chicago 143-107 in the Emirates NBA Cup, setting a franchise record.</summary><updated>2025-11-22T11:04:07+00:00</updated><published>2025-11-22T11:04:07+00:00</published><category>Sports</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>CBS Sports Secures Exclusive U.S. Rights to CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers for 2026</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/cbs-sports-secures-exclusive-u.s.-rights-to-concacaf-world-cup-qualifiers-for-2026"/><summary>CBS Sports secures exclusive U.S. English-language rights to CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers for 2026, with all matches streaming live on Paramount+ starting September 2024.</summary><updated>2025-11-21T14:29:07+00:00</updated><published>2025-11-21T14:29:07+00:00</published><category>Sports</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Raiders Lose to Broncos Amid Offensive Line Crisis as Geno Smith and Jackson Powers-Johnson Injured</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/raiders-lose-to-broncos-amid-offensive-line-crisis-as-geno-smith-and-jackson-powers-johnson-injured"/><summary>The Las Vegas Raiders lost 10-7 to the Broncos as Geno Smith suffered a quad contusion and Jackson Powers-Johnson was sidelined for weeks with an ankle injury, exposing a devastating offensive line crisis under coach Pete Carroll.</summary><updated>2025-11-07T16:53:54+00:00</updated><published>2025-11-07T16:53:54+00:00</published><category>Sports</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Vikings Stick with Carson Wentz vs. Chargers Amid Injury Concerns</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/vikings-stick-with-carson-wentz-vs.-chargers-amid-injury-concerns"/><summary>Vikings stick with injured Carson Wentz over J.J. McCarthy for the Chargers game, sparking playoff anxieties and roster debates.</summary><updated>2025-10-24T12:36:27+00:00</updated><published>2025-10-24T12:36:27+00:00</published><category>Sports</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Pat Murphy Blames Shadowed Dodger Stadium for Brewers’ 0‑3 NLCS Hole</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/pat-murphy-blames-shadowed-dodger-stadium-for-brewers-0-3-nlcs-hole"/><summary>Pat Murphy blames Dodger Stadium's shadows for the Brewers' 0‑3 NLCS hole, defends pulling Jacob Misiorowski, and outlines tactics against Shohei Ohtani.</summary><updated>2025-10-17T12:25:27+00:00</updated><published>2025-10-17T12:25:27+00:00</published><category>Sports</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Peacemaker Season 2 Finale Hits US Screens at 9 PM ET on Oct 9</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/peacemaker-season2-finale-hits-us-screens-at-9pm-et-on-oct9"/><summary>Peacemaker's Season 2 finale aired in the US on Oct 9, 2025 at 9 PM ET, with insights on creators, streaming plans and what’s next for the series.</summary><updated>2025-10-10T20:50:45+00:00</updated><published>2025-10-10T20:50:45+00:00</published><category>Entertainment</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>One Battle After Another Review: Ambitious 2025 Thriller That Misses Its Mark</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/one-battle-after-another-review-ambitious-2025-thriller-that-misses-its-mark"/><summary>Anderson's 2025 thriller &lt;strong&gt;One Battle After Another&lt;/strong&gt; tries to juggle action, black comedy, and a father‑daughter drama but ends up tangled in tonal chaos. The film follows the far‑left group French 75 and its enigmatic leader Perfidia Beverly Hills, played by Teyana Taylor. A bizarre clash with Sean Penn’s Colonel Lockjaw fuels much of the plot. Critics point to frantic pacing, weak character arcs, and an indecisive tone as the main flaws.</summary><updated>2025-09-26T19:48:10+00:00</updated><published>2025-09-26T19:48:10+00:00</published><category>Film Reviews</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>June 2025 CPI: Inflation Quickens as Tariffs Push Up Goods Prices and Test Fed Patience</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/june-2025-cpi-inflation-quickens-as-tariffs-push-up-goods-prices-and-test-fed-patience"/><summary>Inflation picked up in June, rising 0.3% on the month and 2.7% year over year—the fastest pace since February—as tariffs began filtering into consumer prices. Food and restaurant prices climbed, while energy and vehicle prices eased. Economists expect tariff impacts to peak late 2025. Markets now see slim odds of an immediate Fed cut, with a better chance in September if monthly price gains cool.</summary><updated>2025-09-12T13:26:56+00:00</updated><published>2025-09-12T13:26:56+00:00</published><category>Economy &amp; Markets</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>C-SPAN arrives on YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV, boosting access and easing financial strain</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/c-span-arrives-on-youtube-tv-and-hulu-live-tv-boosting-access-and-easing-financial-strain"/><summary>YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV will carry C-SPAN’s three networks starting this fall, a move praised by Rep. Mike Flood as a win for transparency. The streamers will pay the same 87 cents per subscriber per year that cable and satellite providers do. The deal helps stabilize C-SPAN after revenue fell from $64M in 2019 to $45.4M in 2023 amid cord-cutting. A congressional resolution had urged Alphabet and Disney to add the channel.</summary><updated>2025-09-05T13:04:53+00:00</updated><published>2025-09-05T13:04:53+00:00</published><category>Media &amp; Politics</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>What is the best combat knife to carry on the streets?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/what-is-the-best-combat-knife-to-carry-on-the-streets"/><summary>Alright, folks, let's slice up this topic! So, you're wondering about the best combat knife to carry on the streets? Well, I've been pondering this too and here's the scoop! The KA-BAR USMC knife is a real charmer, with its 7-inch blade and a leather handle that fits like a glove. But, don't rule out the Gerber StrongArm, this sturdy devil is known for its robustness and can be your trusty sidekick in any scenario. Remember, folks, these are not toys, so let's keep it safe and sound!</summary><updated>2023-07-31T19:56:16+00:00</updated><published>2023-07-31T19:56:16+00:00</published><category>Self-Defense and Safety</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Is Karate or Wing Chun suitable to mix with Aikido?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/is-karate-or-wing-chun-suitable-to-mix-with-aikido"/><summary>In exploring the combination of Aikido with either Karate or Wing Chun, it seems that both can be suitable pairings, depending on personal preference. Karate, with its emphasis on striking and kicking, could complement Aikido's focus on using an opponent's movements against them. On the other hand, Wing Chun's smooth, close-quarter combat techniques could also merge well with Aikido's fluid, circular movements. However, it's essential to remember that blending martial arts styles should be done thoughtfully to ensure the integrity of each style is maintained. Ultimately, it's about finding what works best for you and your personal martial arts journey.</summary><updated>2023-07-27T08:32:24+00:00</updated><published>2023-07-27T08:32:24+00:00</published><category>Martial Arts and Self-Defense</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Why do people still train in Aikido?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/why-do-people-still-train-in-aikido"/><summary>In exploring the question of why people still train in Aikido, I've found a few profound reasons. First, Aikido is not just about self-defense, it's a discipline that fosters spiritual growth, promoting harmony and peace. It's also a great way to stay fit and enhance flexibility. The practice encourages respect for others, enhancing interpersonal relationships. So, despite being an ancient martial art, its principles are timeless and pertinent even today.</summary><updated>2023-07-23T05:01:11+00:00</updated><published>2023-07-23T05:01:11+00:00</published><category>Martial Arts &amp; Fitness</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Is Aikido hard to learn?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/is-aikido-hard-to-learn"/><summary>Learning Aikido can indeed be challenging, especially for beginners. The complexity arises from having to master not only the physical techniques but also the philosophical aspects that this martial art form embodies. It requires a great deal of discipline, patience, and continuous practice. However, with a dedicated mindset and consistent training, one can gradually grasp the art. In conclusion, while Aikido might be hard to learn initially, it's a rewarding journey that leads to both physical and mental development.</summary><updated>2023-07-20T07:52:24+00:00</updated><published>2023-07-20T07:52:24+00:00</published><category>Martial Arts &amp; Self-Defense</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>How effective is ninjitsu in a street fight?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/how-effective-is-ninjitsu-in-a-street-fight"/><summary>In my recent exploration of martial arts, I delved into the effectiveness of ninjitsu in a street fight scenario. From my research, ninjitsu offers a wide range of techniques that can provide a strategic advantage in unpredictable situations. However, its effectiveness largely depends on the practitioner's skill level and ability to adapt to real-life confrontations. While certain ninjitsu techniques can be practical for self-defense, it's essential to remember that no single martial art guarantees success in every situation. Overall, I believe that ninjitsu can be a useful tool in a street fight, but one must also consider other factors and training to ensure personal safety.</summary><updated>2023-05-04T23:31:29+00:00</updated><published>2023-05-04T23:31:29+00:00</published><category>Martial Arts and Self-Defense</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>In Aikido (martial arts) how do you get your 'ki'?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/in-aikido-martial-arts-how-do-you-get-your-ki"/><summary>Aikido is a martial art which focuses on the use of ‘ki’, or spiritual energy. To access one’s ‘ki’, practitioners need to learn how to sense and move with the energy around them. This is done through breathing exercises, physical movements, and meditation. Each of these practices helps to build an awareness of the energy in the environment, and also to cultivate the inner energy within oneself. By combining these practices, one can learn to use their ‘ki’ to defend themselves, move with grace, and to find balance in their lives. With dedicated practice and patience, any martial artist can learn to master the use of their ‘ki’.</summary><updated>2023-03-14T21:59:18+00:00</updated><published>2023-03-14T21:59:18+00:00</published><category>Martial Arts</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Can you use Aikido aggressively and very effectively in a fight?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/can-you-use-aikido-aggressively-and-very-effectively-in-a-fight"/><summary>Aikido is a Japanese martial art which focuses on defending and redirecting an attacker's energy, rather than attacking. In a fight, Aikido can be used aggressively and effectively, by using simple techniques such as joint locks and throws. Rather than using the attacker's force against them, Aikido practitioners use their own energy to control the situation. The key to using Aikido aggressively is to maintain control and remain calm, so that the practitioner can sense the attacker's movements and respond accordingly. With proper training, Aikido can be used to effectively and safely control a fight.</summary><updated>2023-03-06T22:53:48+00:00</updated><published>2023-03-06T22:53:48+00:00</published><category>Martial Arts</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Does Judo complement Aikido and vice versa?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/does-judo-complement-aikido-and-vice-versa"/><summary>Judo and Aikido are two martial arts which have both similarities and differences. Judo consists of a wide range of throws, joint locks and pins, while Aikido focuses on redirecting an attacker’s energy and using their force against them. Although they are different in their approach, they are complementary and can be used together in the same way as a complete system of self-defence. Practising both arts at the same time can help to build a more complete self-defence strategy and give a practitioner a greater understanding of body movement. The two martial arts are not mutually exclusive and can be used together to create a powerful self-defence system.</summary><updated>2023-02-28T13:30:21+00:00</updated><published>2023-02-28T13:30:21+00:00</published><category>Martial Arts</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>How to practice Iaido without a sensei?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/how-to-practice-iaido-without-a-sensei"/><summary>Iaido is a martial art which focuses on the use of a sword. Practicing without a sensei can be done, although it is not as effective as having one. Learning the basics and understanding the core principles is the first step. Next, practice forms and techniques in order to get accustomed to the motions, stance and timing. Videos and literature can be helpful in learning the basics and can provide additional guidance. Finally, it is important to be mindful of safety and etiquette, even when practicing without a sensei.</summary><updated>2023-02-27T23:09:00+00:00</updated><published>2023-02-27T23:09:00+00:00</published><category>Iaido Tutorials</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>How similar are Taichi and Aikido?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/how-similar-are-taichi-and-aikido"/><summary>Taichi and Aikido are two forms of martial arts that share a common origin and many common principles. Both arts rely on relaxation, body awareness, and the channeling of energy to generate power. Taichi is characterized by slow, circular motions and is often practiced as a form of meditation. Aikido focuses on developing control and balance, and deals with redirecting an opponent's energy in order to neutralize the attack. Despite having many similarities, the two arts are distinct in many ways, most notably in their approach to self-defense. While Taichi emphasizes a more defensive strategy, Aikido encourages more active defense, as well as offense.</summary><updated>2023-02-16T04:18:26+00:00</updated><published>2023-02-16T04:18:26+00:00</published><category>Martial Arts</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Martial art: Can I use a kendo's bokken for iado's training?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/martial-art-can-i-use-a-kendos-bokken-for-iados-training"/><summary>This article discusses the use of a kendo bokken (wooden sword) for iaido (a Japanese martial art that focuses on the drawing of a sword) training. It explains that the bokken can be used for iaido practice, but it is not the ideal weapon for this purpose. It states that a real sword is recommended, as it is lighter and has a better balance than the bokken. It also explains that the movements of iaido require the sword to move without resistance, which is not possible with the bokken. The article concludes by warning against using the bokken for iaido, as it could lead to bad habits and incorrect technique. In summary, a kendo bokken can be used for iaido training, but a real sword is recommended due to its lighter weight and better balance. The bokken can also lead to bad habits and incorrect technique.</summary><updated>2023-02-08T02:16:02+00:00</updated><published>2023-02-08T02:16:02+00:00</published><category>Martial Arts Training Websites</category><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>What does '7th Dan' mean in Aikido?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/what-does-7th-dan-mean-in-aikido"/><summary>7th Dan is the highest ranking and most advanced level in the Japanese martial art called Aikido. 7th Dan is achieved through many years of training and rigorous examinations. It is a symbol of expertise and a sign of great accomplishment. </summary><updated>2023-02-05T01:38:44+00:00</updated><published>2023-02-05T01:38:44+00:00</published><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Martial Arts: Who created aikido?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/martial-arts-who-created-aikido"/><summary>Aikido was created by Morihei Ueshiba, a Japanese martial artist and founder of the Aikido school, in the early 20th century. Ueshiba studied many martial arts, including swordsmanship, spear fighting, and jujutsu, and combined them all into Aikido. His goal was to develop a martial arts form that would allow a defender to neutralize an attack without causing harm to the attacker. Aikido is a non-aggressive form of self-defense that is based on the principles of harmony and peaceful resolution.</summary><updated>2023-01-30T08:12:58+00:00</updated><published>2023-01-30T08:12:58+00:00</published><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Why do people go along with and promote fake martial artists?</title><link href="https://aikidoinnorwich.net/why-do-people-go-along-with-and-promote-fake-martial-artists"/><summary></summary><updated>2023-01-25T15:52:20+00:00</updated><published>2023-01-25T15:52:20+00:00</published><author><name>Kieran Blackthorn</name><uri>https://aikidoinnorwich.net/author/kieran-blackthorn/</uri></author></entry></feed>