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Aikido is a martial art (Aikidoka prefer the term defensive art), Aikido is developed by O Sensei (grandmaster) Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969). O Sensei studied a diversity of martial arts like Kendo, Kito Ryu and Daito Jujitsu Ryu before he started to teach his own art (around 1930). In 1942 he decided to call this art Aikido. Translated Aikido means the way of inner harmony and strength.
People that see Aikido for the first time, often do not have the impression that they are looking at a martial art.The movements of Aikido are to graceful, fluently and roundish of shape for the unpracticed eye to look like a martial art. Until, at the end of the movement the attacker is pinned-down, or even more spectacular, is "launched" by the defender. Watch out, do not underestimate a skillful Aikidoka!
The principle of Aikido is best described as "to go with the flow".This means that the force (and movement) that is used by the attacker is used by the Aikidoka against the attacker! Another special thing about Aikido is that there are no competitions, without competition there is no need to "win". This makes it possible for a Aikidoka to train and concentrate on the technique. For most people this seems strange, but this is the essence of Aikido, only in this way we can attempt to perform a perfect technique. By training this way it is possible for everyone to reach his own maximum. This also creates an atmosphere during practice in which we respect and help others. Tall learns from small, strong from weak and the other way round.
Everyone is able to damage or destroy someone else, only few are able to solve a conflict in such a way that both parties are undamaged. This is what O Sensei wanted when he decided to develop Aikido. Aggression has to be neutralized and the outcome must be used to build something positive.
