About Aikido

Aikido is a Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba in the early part of the 20th Century. Aikido may be translated as "the Way of unifying with Ki". The word Ki describes a Japanese concept which may be thought of as 'universal energy. Aikido is performed by blending with the motion of the attacker and redirecting the force of the attack rather than opposing it. Aikido techniques include throws, wrist-locks, escapes and other defences.

Aikido may be practised by women and men. The Hartland Aikido Club accepts students from the age of 18 upwards. There is no upper age limit.

The Hartland Aikido Club practises a style known as Ki Aikido. This involves the study of mental and physical relaxation techniques which may be applied in daily life as well as in the practice of Aikido itself.

For more information, refer to my article: "What Is Aikido"?

See also: Recommended Aikido Books.