Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art, which took the concept of self-defense to a new level. Basic techniques of Aikido are built on the motion-blending principles. Motion blending lets the defendant redirect attacker’s strikes by “leading”. Following the attackers move and redirecting the strength towards the opponent required very little physical strength. That’s why Aikido is very popular among women and younger fighters.
The term Ai-ki-do consist of three hieroglyphs:
- Ai (合) – combining, aligning
- Ki (気) – spirit, soul
- Do (道) – way
Developed as a counter measure against the other popular martial arts, Aikido encourages practitioners to help and protect the weak.
Morihei Ueshiba was born in 1883, in a small Japanese province. After the tragic death of his father and two young sons, Ueshiba began studying the philosophy works of Onisabyro Deguchi. Degushi’s beliefs compiled the basics of the Aikido philosophy. The main aspect of Aikido philosophy is the persuasion of utopia.
Similar to Karate-Do, Aikido employs a proprietary system of practitioner and student rankings.
Training Principles
- Students may never question their teachers and are to understand and follow their instructions.
- Working with weapons – an auxiliary Aikido training method that helps optimize and perfect the self-defense principles.
- Practicing throws, blocks and locks.
- Balance exercises.
- Development of concentration and Spiritual training.
This type of combat art is also popular among middle age people who want to combine fitness exercises with self-defense and fighting techniques. Rich with traditional customs and philosophy, Aikido is considered to be one of the most popular martial arts in the world.
