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What is Aikido?
The Japanese martial art of Aikido was developed by Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969) as an evolution from the more military application of Aiki-jujitsu into a Bu-do or code of conduct for the warrior. Ueshiba strove to transform the traditional Aiki-jujitsu techniques into a purely self-defensive art that emphasizes respect and harmony both on a physical and metaphysical level. In his later years Ueshiba extended his meaning of harmonizing with your opponent’s energy to harmonizing with the entire universe. He believed if one could achieve harmony on this level then ultimately there can be no enemy.

In applying Aikido the practitioner uses joint-locks, throws, strikes and pins to disable an attacker. The premise in Aikido is to use only the amount of force necessary to subdue your opponent. Aikido is a true martial art in that it is not practiced as a competitive sport. There is the attacker (Uke) and the defender (Nage). As in real life the attack must be neutralized, there are no points involved for partial success. Uke extends his energy toward Nage in the form of some sort of attack such as a punch, kick or strike with or without a weapon. Nage uses this momentum to continuously keep Uke off balance. By maintaining control of Uke’s center Nage can execute either pinning or throwing techniques to disable his/her opponent. Ultimately the less power or strength Nage uses the more proficient they have become in mastering Aikido. In Aikido you practice both the Uke/Nage (Attacker/Defender) sides of this martial art.

Aikido Training
Training in Aikido helps to develop your flexibility, stamina and core strength. The movements should be smooth and beautiful to watch – akin to a dance. Some of the throws are quite dramatic and require practitioners to learn how to fall from at least hip level, gracefully and with limited impact on the body. Particular emphasis is placed on protecting your head, shoulders and wrists; the most common points of injury when people take a tumble. By using precise timing, leverage and the natural force of gravity the Aikido practitioner can learn to defend against an attacker of any size making this martial art accessible to people of all sizes and abilities.

What do you need to start your aikido training? Only interest and a desire to learn. Attendance is not mandatory, but keep in mind that in order to improve in Aikido, one probably needs to practice regularly.