Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art created by Morihei Ueshiba, widely known as O’Sensei. Combining techniques from several traditional martial arts, Aikido emphasizes harmony, self-control, and non-violence. O’Sensei designed Aikido as a discipline based on peace, respect, and personal growth rather than competition.
The flowing circular movements of Aikido mirror natural patterns found in the body and in nature. Through controlled movements, balance, and redirection of force, Aikido teaches children and adults how to protect themselves while protecting others from injury. Watch the video below to see the unique circular motion and philosophy of Aikido in action.
The benefits of Aikido practice
- Aikido practice strengthens the mind, body, and spirit helping individuals find their place in nature, society, and the universe. Training Aikido means being sensitive to how others are reacting to how we move and how our surroundings are changing.
- When we practice Aikido we learn to fall properly, protecting ourselves from injury during the application of technique. The skill of falling safely will help prevent injury and is quite enjoyable once a level of proficiency is achieved.
- As we age, and injuries accumulate, our bodies become unbalanced from guarding these injured areas. Aikido is an excellent activity to address this issue. The power used in Aikido practice is not based on exertion of muscular strength, but through the use of proper positioning to create mechanical advantages.
- An Aikido dojo is not a place of aggression or dominance. Typically you will find people in an Aikido dojo to be friendly and willing to help newcomers learn, or adjust their own practice to accommodate the limitations of their partners.
- Aikido is for everyone – the young, the old, the athletic, or the disabled. At Zenten Aikido we welcome everyone who wants to practice, and will work with you to find a program that fits your needs.
Aikido FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
1. What is Aikido?
Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art created by Morihei Ueshiba (O’Sensei). It focuses on harmony, balance, and non-violent self-defense using circular and flowing movements. Instead of meeting force with force, Aikido teaches practitioners to redirect energy and neutralize attacks safely.
2. Who created Aikido?
Aikido was created by Morihei Ueshiba, also known as O’Sensei. He combined his experience in several traditional martial arts with a philosophy of peace and respect to develop Aikido as a non-violent martial art.
3. Is Aikido good for beginners?
Yes. Aikido is excellent for beginners of all ages because it focuses on proper posture, balance, and controlled movement rather than strength or aggression. No prior martial arts experience is needed.
4. Is Aikido safe for children?
Absolutely. Aikido is one of the safest martial arts for kids because it avoids strikes and emphasizes cooperation, self-control, respect, and safe falling techniques (ukemi). It helps children build confidence, discipline, and focus.
5. What are the benefits of practicing Aikido?
Aikido offers physical, mental, and emotional benefits, including:
- Improved balance and coordination
- Increased flexibility and strength
- Better focus and discipline
- Stress reduction
- Confidence and self-control
- Non-violent conflict resolution skills
6. Does Aikido teach self-defense?
Yes. Aikido teaches effective self-defense through joint locks, pins, evasion, and redirection of force. It allows practitioners to defend themselves without causing unnecessary harm to the attacker.
7. What is the philosophy behind Aikido?
Aikido is based on the principles of harmony, respect, and non-violence. Practitioners learn to calm the mind, manage conflict peacefully, and develop inner discipline while improving physical skills.
8. What are the circular movements in Aikido?
Aikido techniques use circular and natural body movements to blend with an attack, redirect energy, and control the opponent. These movements reflect patterns found in nature, such as spirals, waves, and rotations.
9. Do you need to be strong or flexible to practice Aikido?
No. Aikido relies on timing, posture, and technique rather than strength or speed. People of all ages, body types, and fitness levels can practice Aikido safely.
10. What uniform is used in Aikido?
Practitioners wear a keiko-gi (training uniform) and, at higher levels, a hakama. The uniform symbolizes respect, discipline, and tradition in Japanese martial arts.
11. How long does it take to progress in Aikido?
Progress varies depending on practice frequency and personal dedication. Students advance through a series of kyu (beginner) and dan (black belt) grades, focusing on consistent improvement rather than competition.
12. Is Aikido taught in English?
Many international dojos—including ours—teach Aikido in English to make training accessible to all students, whether local or foreign.
We also offer private classes in English, Japanese and French for those who prefer personalized instruction.