Developed in Japan by Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969), aikido is a modern budo art that can be practiced by those of virtually any age. There is no competition in aikido. Instead, training is collaborative, with advanced practitioners helping beginners learn the art in the way most appropriate for their goals and abilities.

The aikido system centers on a series of throws, joint locks, and pins as well as techniques to absorb, counter, or transform them. While the techniques of aikido have the potential to break bones, or worse, their application is never designed to “finish the opponent.” The technical architecture of the aikido system is built on the premise that we must always provide our attacker a way to recover.

Aikido forges the mind and body in a martial way. Training improves mental focus and self-confidence, enhances physical fitness and coordination, and imparts wisdom. There’s nothing like the feeling of practicing aikido.

• If you’ve never practiced aikido before, learn more about the aikido training experience

• A deep dive into aikido with a leading martial arts researcher and author