Aikido
The way of harmony with universal energy
A strictly defensive art. Never meet force with force: blend with the attack, take control of it and redirect it. Adult classes Monday and Wednesday evenings in Topeka.
The art
Harmony, Not Force
- Mon7:30 PM
- Wed7:30 PM
Aikido is a strictly defensive martial art developed in the early part of the 20th century in Japan by Morihei Ueshiba (also known as O'Sensei" or "Great Teacher"). Ueshiba studied many martial arts and developed Aikido out of his experiences in these arts (mainly Aiki jujitsu and Ken-jitsu - sword arts).
The true “Budo” lay not in the conquering of an opponent but in the mastering of the self.
O'Sensei realized that the true "Budo" or "Martial Way" lay not in the conquering of an opponent but in the mastering of the self. In a combat situation this means that an Aikidoist never meets force with force, they never "fight back".
Aikido utilizes circular movements to blend with an opponent's attack. By avoiding conflict they can merge with the oncoming energy of an attack, gain control of it and redirect it - thus neutralizing it. Throws, joint locks and other techniques are favored over kicking or strikes but the greatest emphasis is placed on dynamic motion and blending. Instead of emphasizing techniques as many other arts do, Aikido stresses 4 principles of mind & body unification.
The long read
The History of Aikido
From a sickly boy in Tanabe to O’Sensei, the Great Teacher: how Morihei Ueshiba built Aikido out of the sword, jujitsu and a lifetime of study.
Read the History
