Aikido is more than just a martial art—it is a philosophy of movement, balance, and harmony. Developed by Morihei Ueshiba, Aikido integrates martial techniques with a deep understanding of energy flow, allowing practitioners to neutralize aggression without relying on brute strength.
What Is Aikido?
Aikido is the Japanese art of using your opponent's energy against them (the art of the circle), and was created by Morihei Ueshiba as a synthesis of his martial studies, philosophy and religious beliefs. Ueshiba's goal was to create an art which practitioners could use to defend themselves against attacks, while also protecting the attackers from injury.
The Parts of Aikido:
- KI - known in the art of Aikido as "source energy"
- Fitness - Aikido places some emphasis on physical training goals.
- Uke and Tori - partners practice in pre-arranged forms rather than freestyle, with the uke initiating the attack and the tori applying the technique.
- Weapons - weapons training in aikido is usually with the Jo staff, Bokken (wooden sword) and the knife.
- Multiple Attackers and Randori -This is freestyle practice with multiple attackers and is a key part of the curriculum, and is required for higher-level dan (ranks).
- Mental Training - Aikido also focuses on mental training ass well as the ability to relax the mind and body.
The Origins of Aikido
Aikido was created by Morihei Ueshiba, referred to by some aikido practitioners as Osensei (Great Teacher), with the term Aikido being coined in the 20th century. Ueshiba envisioned aikido not only as the synthesis of his martial training, but as an expression of hs personal philosophy of universal peace and reconciliation.
Ueshiba developed aikido primarily during the late 1920s through the 1930s through the synthesis of the older martial arts that he had studied. The core martial art from which aikido derives is Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu, which Ueshiba studied directly with Takeda Sokaku, the reviver of that art.
The art of Daito-ryu is the primary technical influence on aikido. Along with empty-handed throwing and joint-locking techniques, Ueshiba incorporated training movements with weapons, such as those for the spear, short staff, and possibly the bayonet. Aikido also derives much of its technical structure from the art of swordsmanship (kenjutsu).
The term Aikido is formed from three kanji: Ai, meaning harmony, unifying. Ki, meaning energy and spirit and Do, meaning way, or path.
The art of Aikido was first introduced to the rest of the world in 1951 by Minoru Mochizuki with a visit to France, where he demonstrated Aikido techniques to judo students. He was followed by Tadashi Abe in 1952, who came as the official Aikikai Hombu representative, remaining in France for seven years.
The Styles of Aikido
While there is a range of different styles, including Ueshiba Aikido or Shodokan Aikido, the styles tend to vary in their intention, due to the art's holistic nature. The most common differences noted in Aikido, when observed externally, relate to the intensity and realism of training. Stanley Pranin has observed that some criticism may stem from weak attacks from the uke, allowing for a conditioned response from the tori, resulting in underdevelopment of the skills needed for the safe and effective practice of both partners.
To counteract this, some styles allow students to become less compliant over time; however, in keeping with the core philosophies, that is, after having demonstrated proficiency in being able to protect themselves and their training partners. Shodokan Aikido addresses the issue by practising in a competitive format.
Benefits of Training In Aikido
Improved flexibility & coordination:
The following techniques train your body to move efficiently and smoothly.
Focus & discipline:
Aikido encourages mindfulness and presence in each movement, due to practising with another person. Aikido promotes discipline and focus to ensure both the Uke and the Tori are safe.
Non-aggressive self-defense:
Aikido teaches you to neutralise an opponent while minimising harm. Aikido is often seen as the martial art of the circle and uses the opponent's momentum against them, allowing you to defend yourself, without casing serious harm to the attacker.
Training in Aikido is not just about learning techniques—it is about cultivating adaptability, resilience, and a deeper connection between mind and body. Its non-aggressive principles provide an effective form of self-defense while reinforcing discipline, awareness, and emotional balance.
