-
Step 1
Trace the history of aikido. Though a relatively modern martial art, aikido traces its lineage back to the Japanese samurai unarmed combat technique of Daito-ryu aiki jujitsu. However, unlike samurai combat forms, aikido focuses solely on self-defense, using the opponent's body weight to avert an attack without violence.
-
Step 2
Understand Sensei Morihei Ueshiba's philosophy in creating aikido. Originally, he was a jujitsu instructor, but late in life he realized that focusing on tolerance and peacefulness in martial arts could help foster greater pacifism, which his Omoto religion embraced. This history grounds aikido in self-defense rather than combat.
-
Step 3
See the peacefulness reflected in aikido moves. Aikido practitioners don't perceive attackers as evil or someone deserving of harm. Instead, the attacker is simply another person who's lost touch with his own nature.
-
Step 4
Realize that because of its modernity, there are still instructors who've studied with the founder of aikido or one of his students. If you're seeking out aikido lessons, ask the instructor if he's studied with Ueshiba or one of his students.
-
Step 5
Determine if your temperament fits the discipline. If you're interested in offensive moves, you should pursue a different martial art. If you want a solid self-defense system, aikido is a good choice. However, if you think you'll need ground fighting techniques, also study judo or another ground-fighting discipline.
