About Aikido

Aikido is a traditional non competitive Japanese martial art.  Although it is a modern martial art its origins can be traced back to the time of the samurai.  Aikido was developed during the 1930's by Morihei Ueshiba who was an expert in a range of martial arts such as jujitsu (unarmed combat), kenjitsu (sword fighting), and sojitsu (spear fighting).  Ueshiba was unhappy about the direction of the modern martial arts and developed his own way. wolverhampton telford shrewsbury stourbridge kiddeminster karate kung foo judo jui-jitsui

Ueshiba is known as O'sensi meaning great teacher.    He began to spread the way of Aikido and his technique and physical prowess became legendary.  He continued to practice and give demonstrations right up to his death in 1969 at age 86.

Aikido uses a wide range of techniques utilizing locks and throws coupled with defensive strikes.  An attacker is redirected and his own force is used against him.  When applied Aikido techniques should neutralize an attacker without causing them serious physical harm, but if necessary they can be lethal.

Aikido is derived from sword arts so weapons training is an important facet of Aikido training.  Practice with the sword improves body arts in unarmed combat.