Home

Aikido

Aikido means "the way to harmony with universal energy". Unlike most combative sports, this Japanese martial art is totally non-competitive.

The goal of an aikidoka (aikido practitioner) is not to win a trophy or a medal, but rather, to embark on a voyage of self-discovery, and in the process, develop effective self-defence capabilities.
Aikido is mostly practiced empty-handed, but with weapons as well. Beginners start with a 1.8 m staff called a "Bo", eventually progressing on to other weapons like the "Bokken" (wooden sword).
Exercises with these weapons help to correct posture and, at the same time, to understand the origins and principles of the empty-handed techniques practiced.