How to Practice Aikido

The martial art of Aikido was devised by one of the greatest martial artists, Morihei Ueshiba, who even as an 80-year-old man could tackle any opponent. Aikido techniques employ throwing, joint-locking, striking and pinning. They involve both weapons and self-defense moves from other traditional Japanese martial arts. This article's steps will get you on your way to becoming a strong and wise Aikido artist.

Instructions

1. Find a dojo (a physical training place or training facility) affiliated with the Aikido Association of America, which is associated with Aikikai Headquarters in Tokyo. The association blends traditional Japanese and modern methods of teaching the practice and philosophy of Aikido. Dojos may be run by universities or private instructors.

2. Become the student of a certified instructor. Certification levels from highest to lowest range from master (shihan) to assistant (shihandai), teacher (sensei), instructor (shidoin), assistant instructor (fukushidoin) and assistant (jyoshu). The Aikido Association of America determines the certification levels.

3. Understand that Aikido means "The Art of Peace." Learn that Aikido techniques blend mind and body in techniques to handle aggression and emote harmony, reconciliation and cooperation. Rather than seeking to destroy the enemy, employ your techniques to use his own energy against him and maneuver him into a finishing move that results in a harmonic conclusion rather than a grisly defeat. Achieve an increased level of physical and mental fitness while improving your self-image and self-control.

4. Train for and achieve the different senior grades, or "kyu" of Aikido. The progression in grades is from White to Yellow to Orange to Green to Blue to Brown to Black. A junior student progresses through sub-grades of each grade. View the grade as an assessment of whether the student is ready to progress to the next level. Test for the grade during one of the semi-annual grading events and continue to practice standard exercises and drills.

5. Participate in specialized training seminars. Explore topics including beginning and advanced Aikido techniques for weapons and empty-hands, therapeutic bodywork and elite tactics.

6. Consider becoming an instructor and passing on the art to other students. Participate in an instructor seminar hosted twice a year by the Aikido Association of America (once a year in Chicago and once a year alternating between the East and West coasts).

Tips & Warnings

• Find out up front the costs for classes. You might have to pay for individual classes or pay a monthly fee for unlimited classes.