How to Learn Basic Forms in Japanese Aikido Martial Arts

The practice of Japanese Aikido differs from other martial arts in many ways. Aikido is not so much about fighting, as it is about defense and personal development. There are no competitions and fighting games for people who practice Aikido. Rather, Aikido followers gather in large rooms together and practice in groups. Follow these tips to learn basic forms of Aikido martial arts.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Move quickly and smoothly out of the way of an attack. It is the most basic Aikido technique. Movement typically follows the direction of one of three forms – the triangle, square and circle. Your feet should move in one of those three positions to put yourself out of reach of your attacker.

2. Direct your attacker back to his original position by moving your body and your hands in a circular motion. After he follows through with a kick, stab or punching motion, which you have avoided, come back to your original position, guiding him with your movements.

3. Blend with the attacker as he moves on you again. Do this move with fluid arm movements that move back when he moves forward. Aikido is a strictly defensive martial art and does not include any training for attacks. The basics will allow you to bring your opponent to a fall, and eventual incapacitation, by using his own movements against him.

4. Grab the arm of your attacker as he lunges. Using the momentum he has created by the attack, and your own planned movement, you only need follow-though by guiding his arm toward the ground.

5. Wait for your attacker to wear himself out or leave in frustration. Beginning Aikido students must learn to maintain an inner calm while defending themselves with these basic moves. Novice and sensei alike must always find their chi (center) while practicing Aikido.

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[ghostsyrenge]

on 12/9/2009 I don't think, Bujutsuka, that this was really meant for people with no instruction on the matter of Aikido. Without having been to classes for at the very least a week, one would not be able to visualize and perform this properly. I partially agree that it is a defilement, but in this case it is a supplement to the actual instruction.

[Bujutsuka]

on 10/5/2008 If someone wants to learn martial arts, they must do so by way of a certified instructor.
Learning by way of video, written material, or oral transmission is impossible and a defilement of martial tradition.

One cannot call themselves a martial artist or claim proficiency in an art unless they have learned it correctly in it's natural state.