Aikido

Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art, developed by Morihei Ueshiba during the 1930's through the 1960's. Many parts of aikido are derived from kenjutsu, a Japanese sword technique. The name aikido is formed of three kanjii: ai, ki and do. These are often translated as meaning harmony, energy and way, or harmony, spirit and way. Both interpretations emphasize that aikido's techniques are designed to control an attacker by controlling their energy and not by blocking it.

Aikido uses a wide range of techniques which incorporates principles of energy and motion to redirect and neutralize attacks. If performed correctly, size and stength are not important factors in the efficiency of the techniques. Aikido is considered one of the most difficult of the Japanese martial arts in which to become proficient.

The influence of sword movements from kenjjutsu are quite evident in aikido; in many ways an aikido practitioner moves as a swordsman. The aikido striking attacks were originally weapon attacks. Some schools of aikido do no teach weapon training, while others work with wooden swords, staffs, and knifes. Most techniques used in aikido can be performed with a sword as well as unarmed.

The methods of training vary from dojo to dojo, but typically a class consists of the teacher showing techniques and the students attempting to imitate. Training is done by cooperation, not by sparring. In practice, the attacker and receiver take turns in both roles, and through this approach learn to both attack and defend against the attack. Movement, awareness, precision, and timing are all emphasized as students progress from rigidly defined exercises to more adaptable applications of the techniques.

Aikido was brought to the United States in the 1960s, and many other countries soon after. Today, there are many aikido dojos throughout the world.