Aikido
Aikido is a Japanese martial art based on locking, throwing and manipulating an opponent, using their motion, energy and strength against them.
In Japanese, Aikido translates as:
- Ai - joining / unifying
- Ki - spirit / energy
- Do - way / path
Origins
Aikido is a derivative of Ju Jitsu, which diverged from Ju Jitsu in the 1920s to become the martial art that we know today as Aikido. It's founder was Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969) who originally learnt a form of Ju Jitsu, and developed it into Aikido in the 1920s and 1930s.
Ki
The study of Ki (energy) is a key element of Aikido, and refers to "life's energy"; the secret to Ki is timing and using your body's whole strength and application of a technique to a single point on your opponent.
Weapons
A number of weapons are used in Aikido, both offensively and defensively, namely:
- Bokken
- Jo Staff
- Knives
A number of instructors will also use firearms, katana, bo staff and various other weapons when training and teaching.
Trivia
- Hollywood film star Steven Seagal started life as an Aikido instructor, and is a 7th Dan
For more information please see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aikido
Author: The Bear Martial Arts Team