Aikido is a non-aggressive and non-competitive Budo（ Japanese martial art) created by Morihei Ueshiba. After the Founder's passing in 1969, his son Kisshomaru Ueshiba was inaugurated as Aikido Doshu (1921-1999). At present, Moriteru Ueshiba, grandson of the Founder, has succeeded his father as Aikido Doshu.
The aim of Aikido is a kindness of heart expressed through the spirit of budo. A pure budo comes with the unification of technique, body and heart. The budo, which will manifest itself, does not depend upon the technique, but rather upon the heart of the practitioner.
Aikido movement maintains this firm and stable center with an emphasis on spherical rotation characterized by flowing, circular, dance-like motions. These pivoting, entering and circling motions are used to control and overcome the opponent. The principle of spherical rotation makes it possible to defend one self from an opponent of superior size, strength, and experience.
Although Aikido movements are soft, rational, and smooth as in nature, by applying a bit of force, these can become devastatingly effective. The gentle quality of Aikido makes it appealing to men and women and children regardless of age. It not only offers spiritual development but also provides exercise and teaches proper etiquette and behavior.
Aikido does not seek to meet violence with violence and yet maintains its martial origins. Aikido is based on spherical movements by which an attacker’s aggressive force is turned against itself. Basic Aikido techniques involve joint immobilisations, pinning and throwing using the opponent’s momentum bringing the attacker under control by blending with their oncoming force.
The aim of Aikido is a kindness of heart expressed through the spirit of budo. A pure budo comes with the unification of technique, body and heart. The budo, which will manifest itself, does not depend upon the technique, but rather upon the heart of the practitioner.
Aikido movement maintains this firm and stable center with an emphasis on spherical rotation characterized by flowing, circular, dance-like motions. These pivoting, entering and circling motions are used to control and overcome the opponent. The principle of spherical rotation makes it possible to defend one self from an opponent of superior size, strength, and experience.
Although Aikido movements are soft, rational, and smooth as in nature, by applying a bit of force, these can become devastatingly effective. The gentle quality of Aikido makes it appealing to men and women and children regardless of age. It not only offers spiritual development but also provides exercise and teaches proper etiquette and behavior.
Aikido does not seek to meet violence with violence and yet maintains its martial origins. Aikido is based on spherical movements by which an attacker’s aggressive force is turned against itself. Basic Aikido techniques involve joint immobilisations, pinning and throwing using the opponent’s momentum bringing the attacker under control by blending with their oncoming force.