Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art that teaches students to channel aggression through harmony of movement and precise timing. Aikido was founded by Morihei Ueshiba during the early part of the 20th century. However, the techniques of Aikido are firmly rooted in the martial practices and insights of pre-modern Japan’s warrior class–the samurai . The genius of Ueshiba lay in transforming these combat methods from techniques for self-defence into a practice for physical, mental, and spiritual development.
Aikido as a self-defense art that does not meet force with force. Instead, it redirects an aggressor’s force with well-timed circular movements. In this way, the attacker’s own energy and movement are used to compromise their balance. Once they are unbalanced, the attacker is dealt with through a variety of joint locks, pins, or throws.
In Aikido there are no competitions, tournaments, or trophies to win. The emphasis is on self-protection rather than fighting. The ultimate aim of Aikido is physical and mental development through budo training. This idea is reflected in Ueshiba sensei’s belief that true victory is victory over oneself in this present moment.