What is Aikido?
Aikido
is a Japanese martial art. The majority of Aikido
techniques are derived from the ancient, or koryū, art of Aikijujutsu.
Aikido movements are also influenced by the sword, stick and spear arts.
The "do" in Aikido signifies the art is concerned with personal development as
well as technical proficiency. More than a collection of martial
techniques, Aikido is budo, or a path to enlightenment.The application of Aikido involves neutralizing an attack, followed by throwing or pinning the attacker. Aikido techniques are characterized by their fluidity, blending, and active non-resistance. Applied correctly, Aikido techniques do not cause injury – attackers are controlled with a minimum of physical damage. As a result, Aikido can be safely performed even when the use of force is inappropriate, in contrast to the striking arts.
Aikido Practice
Basic Aikido practice consists of working with a partner, in which both participants take turns as attacker and defender. This kata practice involves the defender applying a particular technique to a specified attack. Both attack and defense are pre-arranged. Advanced Aikido practice involves randori (free-style) where one defender faces multiple attackers simultaneously. In randori, neither attack nor defense is pre-arranged. Randori practice is useful in developing spontaneous responses to unknown attacks.Since Aikido is noncompetitive, taking falls (ukemi) is not considered "losing." On the contrary, correct ukemi is the means by which uke (the attacker) protects himself while giving feedback to nage (the defender). Ukemi is an excellent sensitivity exercise and an integral part of Aikido practice.
In addition, since uke and nage are partners, rather than competitors, control is
always exercised
in class.
A student will not perform a technique harder or
faster than his partner can tolerate. By the same token, a more
experienced practitioner, training as uke, will not attempt to overmatch a
newer student. Aikido is a dynamic, but cooperative, martial art.One of the goals of Aikido is acting in harmony with the universe. By learning to act according to natural law, conflict can be resolved peacefully, without the need to damage or degrade others. Ultimately, Aikido is not about fighting – it is about not fighting. It is a means by which to end violence in the world.
Benefits of Aikido Practice
* Development of a physical and spiritual "center". Consistent practice allows the student to move from the tanden, the physical center of the body and the seat of physical power. By moving in harmony with the attack, the student learns to act naturally and without excess tension in times of stress or conflict.* Learning a martial art and form of self-defense. Aikido is an effective martial art and form of self-defense. It does, however, require dedicated practice.
* Development of conflict resolution skills to deal with physical and verbal attacks. Aikido practice is concerned with resolving conflict by moving with the attack, instead of against it. This conditioning also applies to verbal attacks. By harmonizing with the aggressor, the Aikido practitioner becomes virtually "unattackable."
* Aerobic conditioning. Most beginners start out slowly as they become familiar with basic Aikido movements. After basic movements and falls are understood, however, Aikido practice can be as aerobic as you and your partner want it to be.
Weapons Practice
* Suburi and KataSolo practice develops an understanding of basic weapons handling, which is essential to mastering Aikido movements.
* Kumi Jo and Kumi Tachi
Partner practice with staff and sword builds on suburi and kata, and promotes the concepts of blending and connection.
* Jo Tori, Tachi Tori and Tanto Tori
Defending against an armed attacker is useful in developing a student's movement skills. Weapons practice is an extension of the basic empty hand techniques of Aikido.