The Meaning of Aikido

Ai (pronounced eye) means harmony.
Ki (pronounced key) means inner power or energy within - spirit.
Do (pronounced dough) means path or way.

Aikido is the principle of nonresistance. In Aikido, one is not taught violence, instead one is taught to blend with your opponent or attacker's energy - then redirecting that energy. It is victorious from the beginning, because it is non-resistant and non-aggressive. Although, Aikido can be misinterpreted as being passive, it is an extremely powerful and dynamic martial art. The goal of this art is to first seek peace when confronted by conflict by ways of submission or immobilizing - never to kill.

Aikido can be something of an art because the beauty of its movements. It's almost like a dance. The finesse of the calculated techniques is so graceful to watch, if done correctly.

Aikido is not primarily a system of combat, but rather a means of self-cultivation and improvement. Aikido has no tournaments, competitions, contests, or "sparring." Instead, all aikido techniques are learned cooperatively at a pace commensurate with the abilities of each trainee. According to the founder, Morihei Ueshiba, the goal of aikido is not to defeat others, but to defeat of the negative characteristics which inhabit one's own mind and inhibit its functioning.

Some of the techniques include the following. Shomen Uchi Irimi Nage in Aikido is a continuation of the circular motions of the art put to good use. Shomen Uchi Irimi Nage is an effective way to use the energy of the opponent's attack against him by robbing him of his center of balance and throwing him to the mat. Ikkyo is another effective technique where you control an opponent by using one hand in holding the elbow and one near the wrist. This action is should allow you to pin your opponent down to the ground. And lastly - Kote Gaeshi. This is a technique where a wristlock is typically applied by grabbing the opponent's hand, and bending and/or twisting it. Therefore, submitting him to the ground.

Just like in any art, Aikido takes a lot of practice and discipline to perfect. The important thing is to have determination to give honor to the art by performing it in the best way possible. In Aikido students improve themselves through rigorous training and working with other students who are better and more experienced.