Aikido is a modern, non-violent Japanese martial art that was developed by the late founder Morihei Ueshiba (O' Sensei). The founder passed away in 1969 at the age of eighty-six.
Aikido is effective as a martial art but its essence goes beyond the resolution of physical conflict. Based on a background of rigorous training in traditional Japanese jujitsu, Morihei Ueshiba spent the latter half of his life developing the art as a means of refining and uplifting human spirit. He succeeded in creating what he then named 'Aikido', 'the Way of Harmony with the Forces and Principles of Nature'. Aikido is a true 'budo' (martial art) path in which the keen edge of martial training is utilised as a 'Way' to spiritual growth.
Despite its growth in popularity, Aikido remains true to the goals of budo. Its methods are based on Morihei Ueshiba's deep faith in 'austere training for the sake of improving the human spirit through tireless polishing and perfection of mind and body'. In accordance with the founder's ideals, the art has been kept separate from sports, in which one person competes with another. Aikido is rather a path of personal development for people who sincerely desire to perfect there own human nature. As such, Aikido places great importance on the universal principal 'ki' - the life force or breath. Aikido seeks to achieve the total unification of this universal 'ki' with the 'ki' of individual human 'self' and in turn to develop concord among all peoples. Out of the ancient traditions of Japanese martial arts, Aikido thrives as a source of harmony to counter the disharmonious forces that exist in the world today
What does Aikido mean?
The word 'Aikido' in Japanese is made up of three characters or kanji.
The first and most important is 'Ai' which means to meet, to come
together, 'to harmonise'.
The second kanji is 'Ki' which means literally steam or vapour, but has come
to mean in modern Japanese, the mind, the soul, the spirit. In the larger
context 'Ki' means 'spirit or force of the Universe', and not just the
spirit of mere human beings.
The third and last character is 'Do' which means 'the way', as in Ken-Do or
Ju-Do. It signifies that the study of Aikido does not involve only
techniques based purely in self defence, but includes positive character
building ideals which people can incorporate into their daily lives.
Thus, Aikido means 'the way of harmonising the body and universal spirit'.
The most outstanding feature of physical training is the repetitious practice of various techniques until rational and unforced movements flow naturally from within the body. The aikidoka practices ways to control aggression without causing harm or injury. The fact that there is no competition in Aikido is a natural result of this basic philosophy. When winning or loosing are of no consequence, trainees are free to dedicate their efforts to mutual goals. It is then possible for men, women and children of all ages to walk together down the path of budo that is the heart of Aikido. With each student training and progressing at his or her own pace, all can find harmony within their own personal development.
Circular, flowing movements originating from a relaxed body and a fully centred mind are the Aikido ideal. Regular practice brings a feeling of well being and self confidence that carries over into every aspect of daily life. Such experiences eventually result in a broadening of human experience.
In Aikido, there is no 'Way' except the path of confronting 'the enemy that lies within oneself'. Aikido is a path of dogged perseverance and dedication to improving both spirit and body. The recognition and acceptance of this aspect of training is the surest means to steady progress and personal development.
Aiki-Kai (Australia) was founded in 1965 by Seiichi Sugano Shihan. Sugano Shihan continues today as the World Aikido Headquarters (Hombu) Representative in Australia. The Association has representatives in all States and Territories. Aiki-Kai (Australia) is the accredited authority for Aikido in Australia under the National Coaching Accreditation Scheme. This scheme is endorsed by the Federal and State Departments of Sport & Recreation.
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