What is Aikido?

                      Ai                                       Ki                                     DO                      

Morihei Ueshiba (Known as 'O-Sensei' = 'Great Teacher') is the founder of Aikido. . On a purely physical level it is an art with some throws and joint locks that are mainly derived from Daito-ryu Aiki-jutsu. Aikido does not focus on punching or kicking opponents, but rather on using their own (punching and kicking) energy to neutralize them or to throw them away from you. It is not a static art, but places great emphasis on motion and the dynamics of movement.

Aikido practitioners will find what they are looking for, it could be for self-defense, spiritual enlightenment, physical health or peace of mind.

AI= Harmony, love

KI= mental and spiritual energy, life force, vital force

DO= the way

AIKIDO = The way of harmony through/with KI

O-Sensei emphasized the moral and spiritual aspects of this art, placing great weight on the development of harmony and peace. "The Way of Harmony of the Spirit", "The art of peace", "Moving Zen" are just some of the many descriptions given to "Aikido" when translated into English. Different "styles" emphasize the more spiritual aspects to greater or lesser degrees. The idea of a martial discipline striving for peace and harmony may seem paradoxical, however it is the most basic idea of the art.

One should not rely on the preconceived ideas of others. For one to get to know the real meaning of Aikido one should practice oneself in order to understand Aikido.