Aikido is a Japanese martial art. Aikido translates from the Japanese as “The Way of Universal Harmony." Aikido was pioneered and foundered by Morihei Ueshiba, who was referred to by his students as O Sensei (Great Teacher). O Sensei was a Ju-Jitsu master and a master of the sword, spear and staff.
Aikido is a spiritual martial art that promotes peaceful resolution and harmonious interaction among all members of society. Today, Aikido is practised by more than 300.000 people all over the world.
O Sensei was born in the Wakayama Prefecture known as Tanabe, a port town in Japan, on the 14th of December 1883. O Sensei was a sickly child, but with his Fathers encouragement, he engaged in exercise, eventually achieving robust health.
At the age of 17, O Sensei moved to Tokyo, where he began studying Ten Shin Ju -Jitsu. O Sensei later fell ill and moved back to Tanabe.
In 1903 O Sensei joined the Japanese Imperial Army just before the out break of the Russo/Japanese war. It was during this time that he began studying Yagyu-Shingan-Ryu Ju-Jitsu. Later in 1910, O Sensei trained briefly in Judo.
In 1912, O Sensei settled in Shirataki village Okido. It was here in 1912 that O Sensei began studying Daito-Yu Ju-Jitsu under Sokaku Takeda (1859-1943). After a short while, O Sensei was awarded a scroll attesting to his proficiency in Daito-Yu Ju-Jitsu.
In 1919, O Sensei began to take an interest in the Omoto religion. It was in that same year that he received a telegram stating that his father was ill. O Sensei made his way home to Tanabe. On his way home O Sensei detoured to Kioto to visit a temple at centre of the Omoto religion, to pray for his father’s recovery. It was here that he met Onishaburo Deguchi (1871-1948), a devotee of the Omoto religion.
Onishaburo Deguchi became O Sensei's spiritual mentor. The Omoto religion became the Philosophical basis of Aikido.
O Sensei arrived too late to comfort his dying Father. After his Fathers death, stricken with grief, O Sensei moved his family to Ayabe in 1920, to seek solace in the Omoto religion. It was at this time O Sensei began teaching Ju-Jitsu to his fellow Omoto Devotees.
O Sensei’s fame as a martial artist began to spread and he travelled to Tokyo to give demonstrations and seminars on behalf of Japans military and political elite. One of his supporters was Admiral Takeshita, a retired officer and also a martial artist. Takeshita helped O Sensei re-locate to Tokyo in 1927.
In 1930, O Sensei was visited by Jigoro Kano (1860-1938), the founder of Judo. Jigoro was said to be highly impressed by O Sensei’s graceful and unusual technique. Jigoro sent several of his students to study under O Sensei.
O Sensei settled in the Kobukan Dojo, (later to be known as the Hombu dojo), which was opened in 1931 in Tokyo. O Sensei's martial arts eventually moved away from Ju-Jitsu and gradually evolved into what became known as Aiki Budo.
O Sensei went on to found the Aikikai foundation, which was officially recognised by the Japanese government in 1940. O Sensei decided on the name Aikido in 1942.
O Sensei continued to develop and practise Aikido well into his 80's until his passing away on the 26th of April 1969 at the age of 86. After the founders passing, his son Kisshomaru Ueshiba was inaugurated as Aikido Doshu. Afterwards O Sensei’s grandson, Moriteru Ueshiba became the third Doshu.
Aikido is now practised in many Dojos all over the world.
Tuesday, 2 March 2010
Aikido in practise
Aikido was developed and pioneered by Morihei Ueshiba, O Sensei (great teacher), and is a subtle, unique, sophisticated and effective martial art. It is an ideal method for efficiently defending yourself against any form of attack whilst also protecting the attacker from injury.
Aikido techniques are taken from sword, spear, staff and Ju-Jitsu styles. Aikido helps to develop stamina, speed, and flexibility and promotes good health. Aikido emphasises the centralization of thought and action and the extension of mental energy known as Ki. Aikido practise helps to develop a clear thinking, confident person.
Aikido techniques neutralise an opponents attack and redirect the power and energy in order to take control of the situation.
Many Aikido Instructors have different approaches to individual techniques and Aikido is found in a number of styles in different Dojos (schools), all over the world.
Most Aikido classes will start with basic Junbi-Taiso (warming up exercises), falling exercises known as Ukemi, which involve rolling forwards and backwards (Mai Ukemi and Ushiro Ukemi) and side ways break falling, (Yoko Ukemi).
Also direct attacking techniques are practised, for instance-
Shomenuchi and Yokomenuchi.
Other basic techniques are learnt, including-
Tenkan, a turning movement of the body. Irimi, an entering movement which involves stepping forward in a correct stance.
There is also a combination of these two movements known as Irimi-Tenkan, (enter and turn).
Tsugi ashi, a blocking movement using both hands in a motion similar to catching a ball.
Shikko (walking in a kneeling position).
There are many other basic exercises to be learnt.
An Aikido practitioner learns techniques with a partner from the beginning. The person performing the technique is known as the Tori (defender) and the person receiving the technique is known as the Uke (attacker). The receiver of the technique, the Uke who is initiating an attack, receives the technique and is said to be making Ukemi by break falling or rolling to safely reach the ground. Some Uke attacks involve Shomenuchi and yokomenuchi and other attacks involve the Tori being held at the wrists. There are terms for this last attacking technique including-
Katatedori, holding one wrist. Either Ai-Hanmi, which is Uke right hand to Tori right hand, or left hand to left hand or-
Gyaku hanmi, which is right hand to left hand or visa versa.
Ryotedori, which is Uke holding both Tori wrists.
Tori is expected to blend with and control the attacking energy, taking Uke of balance and throwing or pining them. Uke is expected to stay calm and flexible when taking a technique.
There are also three levels involved in practising techniques. Jodan (High level). Chudan (mid level), and Gedan (low level).
Another aspect of technique is Tori and Uke positions-
Tachiwaza is both Tori and Uke standing.
Suwariwaza, both Tori and Uke kneeling or seated position.
Hanmi Handachiwaza, Tori kneeling and Uke standing.
There are many basic and advanced techniques in Aikido and there are many variations to each technique. For a beginner it is mainly the basic techniques that are taught. There are terms given to each technique, for instance here are a few techniques-
Ikkyo (first technique). Nikyo (second technique). Sankyo (third technique).
Yonkyo (fourth technique). Gokyo (fifth technique).
Shihonage (four directions throw).
Kokyunage (breath throw). Tenchinage (Heaven and Earth throw).
Iriminage (Entering throw).
It is not possible to learn techniques by yourself. It is always a good idea to learn from a qualified instructor. Learning techniques from a manual, DVD or a book can be helpful, but using these alone and practising on friends or family members could result in serious injury. If you wish to learn Aikido for yourself, you should find your local or nearest Dojo. There is a link to a UK Aikido web site in the left hand column of this page, or alternatively you can Google search Aikido.
Aikido techniques are taken from sword, spear, staff and Ju-Jitsu styles. Aikido helps to develop stamina, speed, and flexibility and promotes good health. Aikido emphasises the centralization of thought and action and the extension of mental energy known as Ki. Aikido practise helps to develop a clear thinking, confident person.
Aikido techniques neutralise an opponents attack and redirect the power and energy in order to take control of the situation.
Many Aikido Instructors have different approaches to individual techniques and Aikido is found in a number of styles in different Dojos (schools), all over the world.
Most Aikido classes will start with basic Junbi-Taiso (warming up exercises), falling exercises known as Ukemi, which involve rolling forwards and backwards (Mai Ukemi and Ushiro Ukemi) and side ways break falling, (Yoko Ukemi).
Also direct attacking techniques are practised, for instance-
Shomenuchi and Yokomenuchi.
Other basic techniques are learnt, including-
Tenkan, a turning movement of the body. Irimi, an entering movement which involves stepping forward in a correct stance.
There is also a combination of these two movements known as Irimi-Tenkan, (enter and turn).
Tsugi ashi, a blocking movement using both hands in a motion similar to catching a ball.
Shikko (walking in a kneeling position).
There are many other basic exercises to be learnt.
An Aikido practitioner learns techniques with a partner from the beginning. The person performing the technique is known as the Tori (defender) and the person receiving the technique is known as the Uke (attacker). The receiver of the technique, the Uke who is initiating an attack, receives the technique and is said to be making Ukemi by break falling or rolling to safely reach the ground. Some Uke attacks involve Shomenuchi and yokomenuchi and other attacks involve the Tori being held at the wrists. There are terms for this last attacking technique including-
Katatedori, holding one wrist. Either Ai-Hanmi, which is Uke right hand to Tori right hand, or left hand to left hand or-
Gyaku hanmi, which is right hand to left hand or visa versa.
Ryotedori, which is Uke holding both Tori wrists.
Tori is expected to blend with and control the attacking energy, taking Uke of balance and throwing or pining them. Uke is expected to stay calm and flexible when taking a technique.
There are also three levels involved in practising techniques. Jodan (High level). Chudan (mid level), and Gedan (low level).
Another aspect of technique is Tori and Uke positions-
Tachiwaza is both Tori and Uke standing.
Suwariwaza, both Tori and Uke kneeling or seated position.
Hanmi Handachiwaza, Tori kneeling and Uke standing.
There are many basic and advanced techniques in Aikido and there are many variations to each technique. For a beginner it is mainly the basic techniques that are taught. There are terms given to each technique, for instance here are a few techniques-
Ikkyo (first technique). Nikyo (second technique). Sankyo (third technique).
Yonkyo (fourth technique). Gokyo (fifth technique).
Shihonage (four directions throw).
Kokyunage (breath throw). Tenchinage (Heaven and Earth throw).
Iriminage (Entering throw).
It is not possible to learn techniques by yourself. It is always a good idea to learn from a qualified instructor. Learning techniques from a manual, DVD or a book can be helpful, but using these alone and practising on friends or family members could result in serious injury. If you wish to learn Aikido for yourself, you should find your local or nearest Dojo. There is a link to a UK Aikido web site in the left hand column of this page, or alternatively you can Google search Aikido.
Aikido Etiquette
Aikido Dojos (Schools), like to promote a safe and harmonious environment. There is always an amount of respect between instructor and students alike. The philosophy, honesty and integrity of Aikido are integrated into daily practise.
Dojos operate and follow rules which come directly from the founder of Aikido, (Morihei Ueshiba, O Sensei), and all students are required to follow and honour his teachings. Each student should co-operate in creating a positive atmosphere of harmony and respect in the Dojo.
It is always good etiquette to arrive early and in good time for all classes.
It is traditional to perform a standing bow when entering and leaving the Dojo. All students should wear Zori, (sandals), too and from the Tatami, (the mats). When the Sensei enters the Dojo, All students should line up according to rank, in Seiza (a kneeling position), on the Tatami. All students should bow with Sensei towards the Kamiza, (a small shrine housing a picture of the founder O Sensei, usually on the far wall), and then returning Sensei’s bow stating "Onegaishamas", which translates as "please teach me".Similary at the end of each class, students will bow to the Kamiza and again return Sensei’s bow stating "Domo arigato gozaimashita", which translates as "thank you very much for teaching me".
During a class, students should perform a bow to old and new partners. If the instructor teaches you and your partner individually, you should kneel whilst watching your partner and both bow afterwards. During practise all students should make sure their Keikogi, (Kit worn by the student), is correctly tied and is clean and in good condition. A student should not wear jewellery, keep long hair tied back and keep finger and toe nails short and clean.
If arriving late for a class, a student should wait for permition from the instructor before stepping on to the Tatami, performing the correct standing and kneeling bows. If leaving a class early the student should ask permition from the instructor and again performing a kneeling bow before stepping of the Tatami and a standing bow before leaving the Dojo.
Dojos operate and follow rules which come directly from the founder of Aikido, (Morihei Ueshiba, O Sensei), and all students are required to follow and honour his teachings. Each student should co-operate in creating a positive atmosphere of harmony and respect in the Dojo.
It is always good etiquette to arrive early and in good time for all classes.
It is traditional to perform a standing bow when entering and leaving the Dojo. All students should wear Zori, (sandals), too and from the Tatami, (the mats). When the Sensei enters the Dojo, All students should line up according to rank, in Seiza (a kneeling position), on the Tatami. All students should bow with Sensei towards the Kamiza, (a small shrine housing a picture of the founder O Sensei, usually on the far wall), and then returning Sensei’s bow stating "Onegaishamas", which translates as "please teach me".Similary at the end of each class, students will bow to the Kamiza and again return Sensei’s bow stating "Domo arigato gozaimashita", which translates as "thank you very much for teaching me".
During a class, students should perform a bow to old and new partners. If the instructor teaches you and your partner individually, you should kneel whilst watching your partner and both bow afterwards. During practise all students should make sure their Keikogi, (Kit worn by the student), is correctly tied and is clean and in good condition. A student should not wear jewellery, keep long hair tied back and keep finger and toe nails short and clean.
If arriving late for a class, a student should wait for permition from the instructor before stepping on to the Tatami, performing the correct standing and kneeling bows. If leaving a class early the student should ask permition from the instructor and again performing a kneeling bow before stepping of the Tatami and a standing bow before leaving the Dojo.
Quotes from O Sensei
Foundered by Morihei Ueshiba (O Sensei) and originally named Aikibudo, Aikido is a Japanese martial art based on Ju-jitsu and sword, staff and spear techniques and also the philosophy of a branch of the Shinto religion called Omoto. O Sensei developed Aikido in order to promote a peaceful society, turn foe into friend and eliminate conflict. O Sensei’s aim was to create a harmonious world based on mutual understanding.
Here are some quotes from O sensei which may illustrate his ideas behind the techniques, principles and philosophy of Aikido.
“Do not look at your opponents eyes, your spirit will be drawn in. Do not look at your opponent’s sword; your spirit will be captured by his sword.”
“If you have life in you, you have access to the secrets of the ages. For the truth of the Universe resides in each and every human being.”
“Though surrounded by many enemies, view them as a single foe and so fight on.”
“Master the techniques of Aiki, the way of the Gods and no foe will ever attack.”
“In true Budo there is neither opponent nor foe. True Budo is uniting with the centre of the Universe. It is the work of love. It is neither fighting nor killing. Rather, true Budo gives life and nurtures all things.”
“The secret of Aikido lies in uniting ourselves with the Universe. By purifying ourselves and harmonising with the movement of the universe. For those who master the secrets of Aikido, the Universe lies within. Thus may I say, I who am the Universe.”
“First we must cultivate the self. Then we must put our own homes in order. Next we must build our nation and finally enter into harmony with the Universe.”
“True Budo is the cultivation of a power of attraction. Capable of absorbing the opponent’s entire being. Therefore it is enough for me to merely stand in this way.”
"There are times when you may be overwhelmed by the teachings of the Way. At such moments, it is important to continue with the original spirit of a beginner."
" Keep your mind as bright & clear as the vast sky,the great ocean & the highest peak,empty of all thoughts."
"The Way of the Warrior has been misunderstood. It is not a means to kill and destroy others. Those who seek to compete and better one another are making a terrible mistake. To smash, injure, or destroy is the worst thing a human being can do. The real Way of a Warrior is to prevent such slaughter — it is the Art of Peace, the power of love."
Here are some quotes from O sensei which may illustrate his ideas behind the techniques, principles and philosophy of Aikido.
“Do not look at your opponents eyes, your spirit will be drawn in. Do not look at your opponent’s sword; your spirit will be captured by his sword.”
“If you have life in you, you have access to the secrets of the ages. For the truth of the Universe resides in each and every human being.”
“Though surrounded by many enemies, view them as a single foe and so fight on.”
“Master the techniques of Aiki, the way of the Gods and no foe will ever attack.”
“In true Budo there is neither opponent nor foe. True Budo is uniting with the centre of the Universe. It is the work of love. It is neither fighting nor killing. Rather, true Budo gives life and nurtures all things.”
“The secret of Aikido lies in uniting ourselves with the Universe. By purifying ourselves and harmonising with the movement of the universe. For those who master the secrets of Aikido, the Universe lies within. Thus may I say, I who am the Universe.”
“First we must cultivate the self. Then we must put our own homes in order. Next we must build our nation and finally enter into harmony with the Universe.”
“True Budo is the cultivation of a power of attraction. Capable of absorbing the opponent’s entire being. Therefore it is enough for me to merely stand in this way.”
"There are times when you may be overwhelmed by the teachings of the Way. At such moments, it is important to continue with the original spirit of a beginner."
" Keep your mind as bright & clear as the vast sky,the great ocean & the highest peak,empty of all thoughts."
"The Way of the Warrior has been misunderstood. It is not a means to kill and destroy others. Those who seek to compete and better one another are making a terrible mistake. To smash, injure, or destroy is the worst thing a human being can do. The real Way of a Warrior is to prevent such slaughter — it is the Art of Peace, the power of love."
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