What is Aikido?
Aikido is a martial art, created by the late Morihei Ueshiba, of Japan at the start of the 20th century. Ueshiba's talents in swordsmanship and Daitoryu Aiki-Jujitsu, can clearly be seen within each and every Aikido technique.
Ueshiba based Aikido upon circular movements to redirect aggressive and offensive attacks back to the assailant. It consists of purely defensive techniques. For more practical defenses, sometimes atemi (punching and kicking) is used and illustrated in practice.
Since Aikido techniques use one's own body movement and Ki (internal energy), rather than purely physical or muscular force to disable the attacker, it is an ideal martial art for women and children of small stature and frame. You need no prior martial arts experience or special bodybuilding, to practice Aikido.
The Aikido classes seek to bring the concepts of Aikido closer to the practitioner through education and active participation. In Aikido practice, students focus on the coordination of the mind and body for better skill, dexterity, and concentration. In addition, relaxation through mediation, Misogi breathing, and the use of Aikidotechniques and exercises is an added benefit. Time is set aside for the exploration of the Asian culture, Budo and Bushido to facilitate the understanding of this Japanese martial art.
After the Founder's passing in 1969, his son Kisshomaru Ueshiba was inaugurated as Aikido Doshu. At present, Moriteru Ueshiba, grandson of the Founder, has succeeded his father as Aikido
The Aikikai Foundation, officially recognized by the Japanese government in 1940, was founded in order to preserve and promote the ideals of the true Aikido created by the Founder. As the Aikido World Headquarters, it is the parent organization for the development and expansion of Aikido throughout the world.
