Aikido as a Martial Art
Aikido is a martial 'way'. More than just a collection of techniques to defeat an opponent, Aikido utilizes martial techniques as tools to blend human anatomy, psychology, physical dynamics, and motion into a unified system of self development. Although it uses punches, throws, submission pins or locks, weapons, and sometimes kicks, the goal of Aikido is not to injure an opponent or knock them to the ground. Instead, the goal is to study and manipulate physical reactions and inertia to control potentially violent and dangerous situations. There are no competitions or trophies in Aikido, and it is equally effective for both men and women. The discipline of Aikido is complementary to other martial arts, and uses realistic and safe training methods.
Aikido as Philosophy
Aikido has been translated as "the Way of harmony with the laws of
nature."Ê An Aikido practitioner's strength comes from natural movements, sincerity of spirit, and a connection with the universe.
Aikido has its origins in prewar Japan, where it was synthesized by Morehei Ueshiba O-Sensei (teacher of teachers) from several styles of aiki-jujitsu (unarmed grappling), sword- and spear-fighting.Ê These martial disciplines were forged into a science of controlling attackers' strength, momentum, and balance.Ê Aikido practice is usually characterized by smooth, flowing movements that often end with a pin, throw, or joint lock.
The Effectiveness of Aikido
Traditional Aikido is also distinguished by:
A focus on multiple attackers,
Effective techniques not based on strength, size, speed or youth,
No competitions, contests or trophies,
Practice with and against training weapons such as bokken (wooden sword), jo (staff), and tanto (knife),
A constructive training environment free from injuries,
The ability to effectively end conflicts without violence, but the strength to use controlled force if necessary,
Real techniques that can be practiced at full speed (no "killing" techniques that cannot be practiced),
A focus on strategy and movement that is complementary to other martial styles and previous martial art experience.
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