What is Aikido?

Aikido is a Japanese Martial Art originated in the 1930's by Morehei Ueshiba who studied many of the traditional Japanese fighting arts .

Aikido is made up of the Japanese words Ai - Harmony, Ki - Spirit, and Do - Way.
So its literal translation is 'The Way of Spirit Harmony'.

It is recognisable by its inclusion of the following characteristics:

• Throwing techniques, utilising joint control and use of balance.
• Control techniques , using hold downs and joint control.
• Striking techniques to vulnerable parts of the body.
• Use of traditional Japanese weaponry such as the short staff, & sword.

  A major feature of Aikido is its principle of harmony. This is seen in blending with an attack rather than resisting it in order to make use of the power of the attack. There is a pronounced use of circular and spiral movements which enhance this blending.

  Like other Japanese Martial arts, Aikido promotes a philosophy of mental, spiritual and physical development.

  Aikido aims to enable the practitioner to combine their mind and body and spirit as one unified system, and thereby become more effective in their daily lives.

  http://www.EllisAikido.org