​INSTRUCTOR 
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Charlotte Vandersleyen
FIFTH DAN

Charlotte started to practice Naginata in 1995 at age 13. She has been a member of the Belgian National Team since 1999 and regularly takes part in International competitions. 

She was involved in helping the Dutch squad with the development of Naginata in Germany and Italy before opening her own dojo in Belgium.

She later moved to Portugal where she founded the Portuguese Federation which is still in operation today.
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After settling in London, she first joined the local dojo before opening Aspire in 2019. 

PRACTICE

At Aspire we practice all aspects of Naginata from footwork to kata and sparing. Members are expected to participate in every of these independently of their personal preference. We consider the practice in a holistic way and maintain a strong traditional organisation that enables us to practice safely and efficiently.

Although we are a competition orientated dojo we emphasise the practice of kihon (basics) and proper technique that we consider the necessary foundation to more advanced techniques.
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Every student is able to evolve at their own rhythm and receives personalised advise to help them progress.
The program of the classes varies during the year as we adapt to the level of the students present and prepare for events such as gradings, competitions and seminars.