aikido

Whenever I move, that's Aikido
-- O Sensei, Morihei Ueshiba

Aikido is a Japanese martial art developed by the late Morihei Ueshiba (often referred to by his title 'O Sensei'). On a purely physical level it is an art involving some throws and joint locks that are derived from jiu-jitsu and some throws and other techniques derived from kenjutsu. The word "Aikido" is made up of three Japanese characters: AI - harmony, KI - spirit, mind, or universal energy, DO - the Way. Thus aikido is "the Way of Harmony with Universal Energy."

Aikido focuses not on punching or kicking opponents, but rather on using their own energy to gain control of 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 is not primarily a system of combat, but rather a means of self-cultivation and improvement. Aikido has no tournaments, competitions, contests, or sparring; Instead, all Aikido techniques are learned co-operatively at a pace commensurate with the abilities of each trainee. According to the founder, the goal of Aikido is not the defeat of others, but the defeat of the negative characteristics which inhabit one's own mind and inhibit its functioning.

At the same time, the potential of Aikido as a means of self-defence should not be ignored. One reason for the prohibition of competition in Aikido is that many techniques would have to be excluded because of their potential to cause serious injury. By training co-operatively, even potentially lethal techniques can be practiced without substantial risk.

It must be emphasised that there are no shortcuts to proficiency in Aikido. Consequently, attaining proficiency in Aikido is simply a matter of sustained and dedicated training. No one becomes an expert in just a few months or years.

If you're in the Milton Keynes area there is a friendly local club which will welcome you to the world of Aikido - check www.mkkac.com for more. For the Coventry area, please check www.phoenix-aikido.com which is the headquarters of Yama Arashi UK, to which Milton Keynes Aikido is affiliated.