What is Aikido?

Aikido is a Japanese martial art.  Aikido's most unique feature is its method of controlling attackers without causing permanent injury.  An Aikidoist blends with the movements of an attacker compromising balance and directing an attacker to the ground. 

Developed from techniques of the Samurai Aikido uses a combination joint locks, nerve strikes, throws, and grappling.  Aikido develops the ability to manipulate body and mind of the attacker to control without injury.  Aikido offers a unique system of self-defense that uses timing and movement instead of strength to overcome attacks.  The ability to control attackers without injury has made the system a favorite among law enforcement.

History of Aikido

Aikido was founded by a man named Morihei Ueshiba, called O Sensei (''Great Teacher''). O Sensei was born in 1883 in the Wakayama Prefecture of Japan. O Sensei studied under masters in many traditional martial arts (jujitsu, kenjitsu, etc.), eventually becoming an expert at a number of styles of unarmed and weapon combat.  O Sensei studied religion and philosophy with the same dedication as his martial training.

The unique insight of O Sensei resulted in the evolution of the traditional aggressive martial arts into a gentle system.  His new martial art was not just a method of fighting, but a means of being a better person.

O Sensei continued to practice and teach until shortly before his death at age 86.