Aikido

Aikido is a martial art sometimes referred to as the art of peace. Its movements focus on blending with the energy of an attacker and moving them effortlessly off balance without opposing them or attempting to cause harm. We do not block and there is little emphasis on strikes save those we practise to defend against. Some may call it a true defensive art.

The way the art is practised is soft and gentle, in this way we can take as much benefit from attacking and receiving throws as we can from being attacked and performing throws. The gentle nature of this ensures that people can practise safely without developing injuries and leave classes feeling alive and invigorated, not tired and bruised.

Although we practise in a gentle way, Aikido can be both powerful and dangerous. Throws that can be performed softly and without pain, when met with resistance, can become quite the opposite.

The art of Aikido is based on the principle that repetition is habit forming. If we spend our time on the mat practising respect and harmonious relationships and avoid a dependence on force, this quickly affects our life off the mat.

E-mail Address: aikido@upsu.net