Mokuyobi Yoru Aikido ClubWhat is Aikido?
Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art founded in the early 20th Century by Ueshiba Morihei (1883-1969). After mastering classical styles of Judo, Kendo and Jujitsu, he developed Aikido - a defensive martial art based on spiritual teachings. Although, there are now many varying styles of Aikido taught throughout the world, the basic principles remain the same. The force of any attack is controlled and diffused by using avoidance and balance breaking followed, if necessary, by techniques including a range of strikes, locks and throws.
What are the benefits of training in Aikido?
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Conflict Avoidance - It is better not to enter a physical conflict if at all possible. Aikido training will help you recognise alternative ways out of difficult situations, and if some sort of physical action is unavoidable, it will allow you to tailor your response to the threat.
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Self Defence - like most martial arts, it allows individuals of any size or strength to effectively defend themselves against both armed and unarmed attack. Students learn a combination of unarmed self-defence and training in sword (bokken) and staff (jo).
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Versatility - Aikido's versatility has resulted in its many applications outside the dojo (training hall) including use of variations by police, armed forces, prison wardens and self-defence classes.
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Fitness - important as training progresses and it is a natural result of regular attendance.
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Self-confidence - self-confidence grows, having positive overflow effects into all aspects of one's daily life.
Who chooses Aikido?
Because of its defensive nature and emphasis on technique rather than strength or aggression, Aikido attracts a wide variety of people. Almost all Aikido clubs offer Adult (16+) classes and some Aikido clubs offer Junior classes for children aged 7-15 years with a different syllabus. It is not uncommon for people over 40 to begin training in Aikido and significant numbers of women are attracted to the sport. Note that the above description of Aikido is taken from the Trowbridge Aikido website site.
Aikido is a Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba. On a purely physical level it is an art involving some throws and joint locks that are derived from ju-jitsu and some throws and other techniques derived from kenjutsu. Aikido focuses not on punching or kicking opponents, but rather on using their own energy against them; to gain control of them or to throw them away from you. In this way it doesn't rely on strength or speed. It is not a static art, but places great emphasis on motion and the dynamics of movement. Upon closer examination, practitioners will find from Aikido what they are looking for, whether it is applicable self-defence technique, spiritual enlightenment, physical health or peace of mind. Ueshiba emphasised the moral and spiritual aspects of this art, placing great weight on the development of harmony and peace. The Way of Harmony of the Spirit is one way that Aikido may be translated into English. Although the idea of a martial discipline striving for peace and harmony may seem paradoxical, it is the most basic tenet of the art.
by Kjarten Clausen - www.aikidofaq.com