The word “martial arts” usually evokes images of physical strength and endurance. However this is not the case with Aikido. It is one of the gentlest forms of martial arts that originated from Japan and is not only a form of self defense but also a way of keeping fit and training mind, body and soul. It is an art that requires grit and determination to be perfected.

What are the basic techniques used in Aikido?

The term Aikido itself means “unified with the forces of nature”. It was developed by Morihei Ueshiba who is sometimes referred to as “great teacher” and has more than one million followers all over the world today. He developed it with the aim of defending himself without hurting the attacker. It focuses on using the attacker’s energy against himself and therefore this form of martial arts does not require much energy or strength. Because it gives importance to technique over strength, it can be practiced equally well by men and women of all ages. Like every other form of martial arts, practicing Aikido involves training the body as well as the mind.

What kind of training does Aikido require?

Physical training includes training the muscles to be coordinated in order to be able to defend one self properly and is similar to that of yoga. It involves various pushing techniques rather than pulling techniques employed by other forms of martial arts. Students are also taught how to roll or fall with least impact.

Mental training involves various meditation techniques such as stretching that train the mind for better stress response, sharpening of the senses as well as improvement in vitality. This allows one to be alert while defending oneself.

Some Aikido schools also provide training with various weapons such as staffs, wooden swords or knives, especially disarming techniques, while others prefer not to train with weapons at all. The weapon training is given to educate the Aikido practitioner on various movements so that they can easily defend themselves against an armed opponent.

Why is Aikido a superior form of martial arts?

The first few lessons usually involve various attacking techniques so that the students can learn to defend themselves effectively against these attacks. The essence of this form of martial art is spherical motion around a centre in fluid, dance like motion which when properly executed can temporarily immobilize the opponents or even send them flying through the air. Such techniques help in defending oneself from an opponent of larger size and strength and also one who is well trained. Aikido practices also involve training to defend oneself against multiple attackers and are needed to obtain a higher rank. It has been found that although Aikido does involve some forms of injuries, it causes the least amount of injuries among all the forms of martial arts. Injuries are mostly confined to the soft tissues and usually do not cause much harm.

Although Aikido is one of the friendliest forms of martial arts, it is also quite dynamic requiring constant practice for like Morihei Ueshiba once said, “Progress comes to those who train and train. Reliance on secret techniques will get you nowhere.”

If Aikido sounds like a martial art you would be interested in, find a Aikido School near you.  Or discuss Aikido on the forums.