aikido

Aikido is a contemporary version of the Japanese martial arts (budo). The founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba (1883 - 1969) dedicated himself, physically and mentally, to the revival of the spiritual quality of budo. Through tireless exploration and exercise in the martial arts he came to the conclusion that the true spirit of budo cannot be found in an atmosphere of competition and rivalry, where brute force prevails and where the sole final objective is victory at any cost – the state of affairs in other martial arts, where the stress is laid on rivalry and feats of competition, emphasizing athleticism and focusing almost entirely on victory. 

Aikido refuses to become a competitive sport and rejects any form of competition or competitive event, striving instead for a more significant victory – victory over oneself. In Aikido the movements of the body are based on the principle of circular rotation, in which all movement begins from the still, unmoving centre.

This circular movement is capable of controlling any opposing force using techniques originating at its central point, movements which are graceful and yet full of unlimited force. Although Aikido teaches forceful techniques and locks derived from ancient martial arts, the emphasis on circular motion gives the impression, visually, of a graceful, flowing dance movement, subtle and sophisticated. The basic principle is that the soft can overcome the hard, that the pliable can subjugate the inflexible. 

Aikido can be practised by young and old, men and women, regardless of physical condition. As part of the noble legacy of Japanese culture and spirituality, it can teach modern man in our age the path of Harmony with one’s self, with others and with nature. The essence of Aikido lies in continual practice, a harmonizing of body and spirit.