An Explanation of Aikido

Series Summary

Aikido, the modern Japanese martial art, was developed between the 1920s and 1960s and emphasizes the spiritual and philosophical development of its students. This development of spirituality and philosophical belief is directly derived from Shinto and Buddhism. The name ‘aikido’ comes directly from three Japanese characters that stand for ‘matching,’ ‘spirit,’ and ‘way.’ Aikido is meant to distract or immobilize, not kill or permanently damage the attacker. Aikido fighters are thus demonstrating an effective but merciful response. Ueshiba (the Great Teacher of aikido) declared: To control aggression without inflicting injury is the Art of Peace. In this free video series learn aikido exercises and techniques from "Sensei" Jeff Albright. Albright explains basic aikido principles of motion and principles of self-defense. He demonstrates Aikido exercises involving wrist locks, throws and other defenses and discusses the internal and external power of this martial art. Additionally, Albright demonstrates some aikido techniques for self-defense purposes and explains how aikido harnesses surrounding energies to use against opponents.

Video Transcript

"Aikido is a powerful martial art developed throughout the twentieth century by a Japanese man, named Morihai Aoshima. Aikido differs from most other martial arts in that the practitioner seeks to achieve self defense without injury to his attackers. Further more, there are no competitions or tournaments in the art of Aikido. Therefore, Aikido is considered non competitive in nature."