What is Aikido ?
The Japanese word Aikido is written with three characters which translate as
"the way of unity with the fundamental force of the universe".
Aikido is a true budo or Martial Way that evolved in the historic tradition of
Japanese warrior arts. Studied in earnest, budo is more than a science of
tactics and self-defense - it is a discipline for perfecting the spirit.
Aikido was developed by Morihei Ueshiba, known as O-Sensei (Great Teacher) to
more than one million students of Aikido throughout the world. Even as a young
man, he was an extraordinary martial artist, a master of the sword, the staff,
the spear, and the art of ju-jitsu. But O-Sensei also had a strong spiritual
drive, and brooded over the futility of a path based on victory over others.
Leading a life of austerity and rigorous training, he struggled with this
dilemma. It was resolved in a moment of profound awakening. Transformed by his
spiritual insights, Ueshiba's technical mastery evolved into a martial art of
refinement and astonishing power, fundamentally different from those that
preceded it.
"The secret of Aikido," he wrote, "is to harmonize with the movement of the
universe and bring ourselves into accord with the universe itself." O-Sensei
maintained that budo is a work of love, a path to overcome discord in ourselves
and bring peace to the world, "to make the heart of the universe one's own
heart."
There have always been visionaries of remarkable insight, but O-Sensei taught
that true awareness is not grasped by intellect alone. "This is not mere
theory," he said. "You must practice it."
Quotes by Morihei Ueshiba (from The Art of Peace)
Morihei Ueshiba biography information (from The Art of Peace)
Dynamics of Aikido
The essence of all Aikido techniques is spherical motion around a stable,
energized center. Even when the direction appears to be straight forward or
backward, close observation reveals the Aikidoist's movements are in fact
circular.
Properly executed, some techniques are spectacular, sending an opponent flying
through the air. Others are like sleight-of-hand: small, deft movements that
immobilize the aggressor. Both results are achieved through precise use of
leverage, inertia, gravity, and the action of centrifugal and centripetal
forces. Ultimately, it is the energy of the attack itself which brings down the
attacker.
Increased stamina, flexibility, and muscle development occur naturally as a
result of training, but the techniques themselves do not depend on strength for
effectiveness; Aikido can be practiced by men and women of all ages.
Aikido Training
The final aim of budo is personal transformation, the creation of an integrated
human being. Yet philosophical discussion is rare in the dojo, or training
hall. The focus is highly practical: constant repetition to master the
fundamentals of movement, timing and breathing.
Students train themselves to capture the opponent's action and redirect it with
techniques of martial efficiency and power. At the same time, they become aware
of the tendency to overreact to opposition, and learn to remain centered under
all conditions.
Most practice is done with a partner; each works at his or her own level of
ability, alternating as uke (the attacker), and nage (the one who receives the
attack). Both roles are stressed: each contributes skills that enhance overall
sensitivity and control.
Centering
The Aikidoist acquires a relaxed posture in which the weight of the body is
directed towards its physiologic center in the lower abdomen. Gravity, no
longer a force to be overcome, serves to support and stabilize posture. As a
result, ordinary movement assumes an appearance of grace and economy.
The effects of centering are mental as well as physical: vitality increases, the
senses are sharpened, and one is less affected by everyday irritations and
annoyances. This state is referred to in Japan as having hara, or strong ki,
the inner quality which aids the student of Aikido to develop to his or her
fullest potential in every area of life.
( This information is originally from the USAF Website )