What is Aikido?

I have been going to learn Aikido for the last 6 months. Most of time i enjoy my Aikido practice, except when Sensei sometimes loses his temper, when we do some mistakes...... !!

What is Aikido

Aikido is a Japanese martial art synthesised by its Founder Morihei Ueshiba, during the 20th century. This martial art is the synthesis of traditional ju-jutsu (pinning & throwing techniques), swordsmanship (ken-jutsu), staff techniques (jo-jutsu) & other internal martial traditions to form what is currently called Aikido. Traditional Aikido utilizes throws, pinning techniques & evasions to defeat attackers. Aikido also includes classical sword & short staff techniques to help develop strength, coordination & fundamental skills necessary for Aikido.

The technique of Aikido are circular in nature & are not designed to stop attacks or to conflict with them. Instead aggressive motions are converted into circular movements that render attackers helpless. Aikido techniques allow the attacker’s movements to continue & complete themselves naturally, so that the attack is diverted& redirected harmlessly. The Aikidoist is trained not to cripple, but to apply various wrist & joint locks, pins & unbalancing throws to neutralize aggressors without serious injury to either the aggressor or the Aikidoist. The movements are like motions of a sphere, which rolls effortlessly along, joining mind & body.

Both men & women, regardless of age or size, can practice aikido. The techniques are based on movement rather than strength & there is no competition. Aikido is practical self-defense & helps to develop balance, co-ordination, concentration & conditioning.

Aikido & Health

Traditional Asian medicine often promotes a “hands on “ approach to healing. So while the locks & pins in Aikido are designed to immobilise an opponent, they also stimulate the joints & serve as a vigorous form of massage. Aikido is a healing art.

Like any system of physical training, Aikido is good for one’s health. Regular practice stretches the body, improves circulation & helps to co-ordinate one’s breathing with balanced & harmonious movement. Aikido practice & the meditative space of the Dojo can help to decrease & transform our day-to-day nervous stresses. Further more by stimulating both physical & mental faculties, Aikido encourages harmony in the whole being. It helps us manifest both our inner & outer beauty.

New Delhi Aikido Dojo
Established in November 2004, our dojo is promoting traditional Aikkikai style Aikido in India. Sensei Paritos Kar, 4th dan black belt, is the founder & chief instructor of this Aikido school. Based on his 15 years of training in Aikikai headquarters, Japan, he is presently one of the most experienced Aikido instructors in India.

The dojo in New Delhi is one of the most active Aikido Schools in India, with classes twice daily. As of December 2007, there are about 30 active students. Many of the current students have experience in other martial arts. A few of the current students are ranked 1st kyu (brown belt) or above. At the dojo all kinds of people men & women, Indian & international students, train together co-operatively.