What is Aikido?
Aikido, the way (do) of blending with (ai) energy or spirit (ki) is a powerful and compassionate Japanese martial art. By using throws and immobilizing holds, an Aikido student redirects and neutralizes the force of the opponent's attack. Aikido's circular movements do not rely on strength, making it practical for women, men, and children of all sizes and abilities. Its graceful and flowing techniques provide a unique alternative to martial arts that rely on offensive strikes and kicks.
Morihei Ueshiba (1883 - 1969), also known as O Sensei, developed Aikido from samurai battlefield techniques. Mastering jujitsu, sword, staff and spear, he became one of the greatest martial artists of the twentieth century. A deeply spiritual man, he struggled to reconcile the violent aspects of martial arts with his search for harmony and internal peace. In a moment of profound awakening, he realized that martial training was futile when it relied on victory over others. Instead, "the secret of Aikido is to harmonize with the movements of the universe." With this new awareness, O Sensei developed Aikido, a fundamentally different martial art of refinement and astonishing power.