What is Aikido?

Aikido is a "modern" form of self-defense, which was developed by Morihei Ueshiba from traditional combat techniques like swordmanship and Ju Jutsu. The basis for Aikido lies in the centuries-old techniques of the Samurai, the Japanese warriors. These deadly and devastating techniques were transformed by Morithei Ueshiba to a martial art in which one allows oneself no harm, but does not harm the other.

The word Aikido is composed of the Japanese words for meeting or balance (ai), lifeforce (ki) and path (do).

AI - balance, harmony 

within yourself, with others, in all circumstances 

KI - energy, power 

optimal use of breath - more effect with less musclepower    

DO - the way

learn and refine techniques by repetition and with patience

Aikido is a martial art in which the force of the attack is used as a basis for the defense. Aikido techniques never go against the power and intention of an attacker, but make efficient use of them to neutralize the attack. The training (DO) focuses on the development of physical and mental balance (AI) by efficiently performing techniques with a sense of timing and optimal breathing (KI).

Aikido focuses on personal development and has no matches. Aikido is suitable for all ages because aikido makes minimal use of muscle power.

• training without competition
• suitable for all ages
• men and women
   

In aikido, in addition to practicing unarmed defense techniques against armed attackers (weapons techniques), we also address learning the use of traditional training weapons of the samurai: the knife (tanto), stick (jo) and the wooden sword (boken). The use of the stick and the sword both help in learning proper posture, as well as to move out of the line of attack. Training with weapons deepens our understanding of the timing and focus of the Aikido techniques. 

The Aikikai Foundation    in Japan puts it as follows:

What is Aikido?

A pure Budo is the unification of technique, body and heart. Budo, which manifests itself, is not dependent on technique, but comes straight from the heart of the practitioner. The purpose of Aikido is a kindness expressed in the spirit of Budo.

Here are some thoughts on the spirit of Aikido:

Budo is the way of the warrior. Combined with the spirit of heaven and earth, it is possible to fulfil your purpose in life with unconditional love for all.

Aiki seeks the path to overcome the ego. Aiki is the path of forgiveness and enlightenment. The combat techniques include the discipline that brings the mind and body together according to the laws of heaven.

The purpose of Aikido training is not to perfect the techniques, but the development of one's personality naturally. One becomes "resilient" and power is perceived as soft. Movements are natural and efficient, logical and soft while the center remains fixed, firm and stable. The progress of one's Aikido development can be seen in the natural movement of the person in relation to his environment.

Aikido movements have a firm and stable center and make rotary movements characterized by flowing, circular, dance-like movements. These motions are used to gain control over the opponent despite his size, strength or power.

Although Aikido movement are naturally soft, smooth and logical, to use a little force will have an enormous effect. The diligence of Aikido makes it open to men, women and children, regardless of age, for anyone. It offers spiritual development, exercises and teaches you to deal with others.

The essence of Aikido is based on Eastern philosophy of Ki - the universal creative principle. Aikido seeks to unite this universal Ki with the Ki (life force or breath) which is present in every person. Literally, Aikido translates as "the way of harmony with Ki".

Aiki is love.