What is Aikido

The word Aikido in Japanese is made up of three characters. The first and most important AI 'means to ' to meet, come together and harmonise'.

The second is KI which means 'the spirit\energy of the soul'.

The third is DO which means'the way or path'.

The study of Aikido does not only involve self defence techniques but includes positive character building ideals which can be incorporated into daily life.

The most unusual aspect of Aikido is that although it is primarily a highly effective self defence system it takes the basic of its philosophy of being in harmony with the opponent rather than being in conflict. The core idea of Aikido is not to think of defeating the enemy but rather to be in harmony with him, spiritually and physically. That is why Aikido is sometimes called the art of non-fighting or resistance.

Aikido is much more than an art of self defence as into the art is woven elements of philosophy, psychology and dynamics. As the various techniques are learnt individuals will at the same time train their minds, improve their health and develop self confidence.

Through the physical practice of self defence the student of Aikido comes to understand the mental or spiritual aspect of Aikido.

The movements of Aikido emphasize a flowing flexibility and the maintaining of a stable balance. The aim of the Aikidoist is to be in complete control of his\her mind and body, to maintain a calm and alert posture. Much of the beauty of the Aikido movements derives from the co-ordinated motion of the entire body, with each movement of a part of the body contributing to the integrated sequence of movements. 

Aikido is performed by blending with the motion of the attacker and redirecting the force of the attack rather than opposing it head-on. This requires very little physical strength, as the aikidōka (aikido practitioner) "leads" the attacker's momentum using entering and turning movements.

Koichi Tohei ,(1920 – 19 May 2011) was a 10th Dan aikidoka and founder of the Ki Society and its style of aikido, officially Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido (literally "aikido with mind and body unified"), but commonly known as Ki-Aikido.