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Aikido: The Martial Way for the 21st Century

Morihei Ueshiba created aikido in the early 20th century. Known to his students as O Sensei ­ Great Teacher ­ he was a master of several martial arts and a deeply spiritual person. He reconciled these seemingly disparate disciplines by creating aikido, a martial way to help people develop their physical, mental and spiritual potential. Roughly translated, aikido means the way to harmonize with the life force of the universe. It has also been called "The Way to Spiritual Harmony."

Aikido is an approach to dealing with aggression and violence through positive and energetic training. It applies effective martial techniques in a very unique way: By using dynamic body movements, attacks are neutralized. The skilled aikidoist is able to redirect the force of an attack safely and effectively. More significantly, aikido is designed to deal with many opponents, not just one.

It teaches the practitioner to be flexible, fluid and centered and to act spontaneously within its principles. And in order to do so, the aikidoist learns to unite mind, body and spirit to full advantage.Originally taught to only a few select students in Japan, aikido is now taught in every corner of the world, due mainly to the efforts of O Sensei's son, the late Kisshomaru Ueshiba. By systematizing and adapting the techniques of his father, he developed a training method that is accessible to men, women and children of all ages and abilities.

Aikido: Training

Your aikido training will entail learning how to apply techniques as well as how to fall safely after they are applied to you. The techniques of falling are called ukemi (break falls) and they are an important part of your practice. Traditional aikido training is always done with a partner. Both partners help each other learn and polish their techniques. This creates an open, healthy spirit in the dojo (practice gym).

It is important to remember that aikido techniques are highly effective. So while practice should be energizing and enjoyable, it also requires a high degree of concentration and focus. This allows you to develop skill and power without injuring others.

You do not have to be strong to begin practicing aikido. But dedicated practice with physical, mental and spiritual perseverance will make you stronger. It is not magic; but a magical transformation is always a possibility.