Aikido overview

Aikido is a modern technique of martial arts from Japan. The founder is Morihei Ueshiba (1883 - 1969). The syllables Ai, Ki and Do have the meaning harmony (Ai), vital energy (Ki) and way (Do). Aim of Aikido is to restore the perturbed harmony. The force of an attacker is leaded, amplified and redirected back. The movements are natural forms of circles or helixes. Besides physical practise, Aikido teaches all humans to do actions in harmony.

Content of the Aikido training are a specific body training, meditative elements, exercises for concentration, breathing and falling. Strength and body height hardly play a role. In Aikido there is no competition. Instead, there are external courses for every member.

The Aikido training starts with functional gymnastics which prepares the body to the following training. Also, it is good for fitness. An important part of the lessons are sidestepped exercises and falling techniques. Aikido techniques are practiced in harmony and mutual respect. Students train these techniques in pairs, including with partners of different sex, often switching partners. One partner takes on the role of the attacker, the other that of the defender. A steady training improves the techniques which is important to use it fast and reflexively during a real attack.

Aikido is applicable for every age, men and women.