Aikido – “The Way of Harmony of Spirit” is a Japanese system of self-defence the origins of which can be traced back to the 12th century.
It was created by Morihei Ueshiba (1883 – 1969) as a basis for both physical and spiritual development.
It is an art that does not seek to meet violence with violence and yet maintains its martial origins. It is based on spherical movements by which an attackers aggressive force is turned against itself . The main form of Aikido techniques are joint immobilisation and throws using the opponents momentum. Practices with bokken and jo serve to assist understanding of techniques and their development. Traditional Aikido has since its conception been non-competitive.
Since Aikido does not require physical strength or aggressive spirit, it can be practiced by people of all ages and sexes. Based on full and natural body movement, Aikido exercises the whole body. It teaches and develops flexibility, co-ordination, balance and quick reaction. Because Aikido is essentially a method of practical self-defence, the practitioner will eventually acquire a sound basis of quick reaction and effective movement which should prove useful if an occasion should demand it in real life.
It was created by Morihei Ueshiba (1883 – 1969) as a basis for both physical and spiritual development.
It is an art that does not seek to meet violence with violence and yet maintains its martial origins. It is based on spherical movements by which an attackers aggressive force is turned against itself . The main form of Aikido techniques are joint immobilisation and throws using the opponents momentum. Practices with bokken and jo serve to assist understanding of techniques and their development. Traditional Aikido has since its conception been non-competitive.
Since Aikido does not require physical strength or aggressive spirit, it can be practiced by people of all ages and sexes. Based on full and natural body movement, Aikido exercises the whole body. It teaches and develops flexibility, co-ordination, balance and quick reaction. Because Aikido is essentially a method of practical self-defence, the practitioner will eventually acquire a sound basis of quick reaction and effective movement which should prove useful if an occasion should demand it in real life.
