Aikido – More Than Just a Martial Art

Aikido is different from most other martial arts in that it emphasizes cooperation instead of domination and redirection of an attacker’s energy. Its founder, Morihei Ueshiba – “O Sensei” – developed the art from his study of Daito-ryu jujitsu and sword as well as his spiritual practice. After experiencing the horrors of war and violence, he realized that dominating another person at their own expense was not a victory, but a defeat.

Aiki techniques, including throws, pinning, evasion and joint-locking do not require the physical strength that many other martial arts do. This makes aikido an effective self-defense system and a good fit for women and students of smaller stature. Moreover, it is also a great workout that improves coordination, core strength, balance and overall fitness.

But it is important to keep in mind that aikido was not designed as a fighting art, and that its use in a real combat situation is unlikely to be very successful. In fact, if you try to use aikido in a full-force assault scenario, there is a very high chance that you will get crushed.

Aikido teaches more than just how to defend yourself from an attack; it teaches character development, perseverance, patience, situational awareness and the importance of working together with others in a spirit of cooperation rather than competition and dominance. This helps in other areas of life, such as school, work and relationships. This is why aikido is considered more than just a martial art; it is a way of life.