rael razor's blog: "Aikido"

Aikido was developed and pioneered by Morihei Ueshiba, O Sensei (great teacher), and is a subtle, unique, sophisticated and effective martial art. It is an ideal method for efficiently defending yourself against any form of attack whilst also protecting the attacker from injury.

 Aikido techniques are taken from sword, spear, staff and Ju-Jitsu styles. Aikido helps to develop stamina, speed, and flexibility and promotes good health. Aikido emphasises the centralization of thought and action and the extension of mental energy known as Ki. Aikido practise helps to develop a clear thinking, confident person.

 Aikido techniques neutralise an opponents attack and redirect the power and energy in order to take control of the situation.

 Many Aikido Instructors have different approaches to individual techniques and Aikido is found in a number of styles in different Dojos (schools), all over the world.

 Most Aikido classes will start with basic Junbi-Taiso (warming up exercises), falling exercises known as Ukemi, which involve rolling forwards and backwards (Mai Ukemi and Ushiro Ukemi) and side ways break falling, (Yoko Ukemi).

 Also direct attacking techniques are practised, for instance-

 Shomenuchi and Yokomenuchi.

 Other basic techniques are learnt, including-

 Tenkan, a turning movement of the body. Irimi, an entering movement which involves stepping forward in a correct stance.

 There is also a combination of these two movements known as Irimi-Tenkan, (enter and turn).

 Tsugi ashi, a blocking movement using both hands in a motion similar to catching a ball.

 Shikko (walking in a kneeling position).

 There are many other basic exercises to be learnt.

 An Aikido practitioner learns techniques with a partner from the beginning. The person performing the technique is known as the Tori (defender) and the person receiving the technique is known as the Uke (attacker). The receiver of the technique, the Uke who is initiating an attack, receives the technique and is said to be making Ukemi by break falling or rolling to safely reach the ground. Some Uke attacks involve Shomenuchi and yokomenuchi and other attacks involve the Tori being held at the wrists. There are terms for this last attacking technique including-

 Katatedori, holding one wrist. Either Ai-Hanmi, which is Uke right hand to Tori right hand, or left hand to left hand or-

 Gyaku hanmi, which is right hand to left hand or visa versa.

 Ryotedori, which is Uke holding both Tori wrists.

 Tori is expected to blend with and control the attacking energy, taking Uke of balance and throwing or pining them. Uke is expected to stay calm and flexible when taking a technique.

 There are also three levels involved in practising techniques. Jodan (High level). Chudan (mid level), and Gedan (low level).

 Another aspect of technique is Tori and Uke positions-

 Tachiwaza is both Tori and Uke standing.

 Suwariwaza, both Tori and Uke kneeling or seated position.

 Hanmi Handachiwaza, Tori kneeling and Uke standing.

 There are many basic and advanced techniques in Aikido and there are many variations to each technique.  For a beginner it is mainly the basic techniques that are taught. There are terms given to each technique, for instance here are a few techniques-

 Ikkyo (first technique).     Nikyo (second technique).    Sankyo (third technique).

 Yonkyo (fourth technique).    Gokyo (fifth technique).   

 Shihonage (four directions throw).

 Kokyunage (breath throw).     Tenchinage (Heaven and earth throw).

 Iriminage (Entering throw).

 It is not possible to learn techniques by yourself. It is always a good idea to learn from a qualified instructor. Learning techniques from a manual, DVD or a book can be helpful, but using these alone and practising on friends or family members could result in serious injury. If you wish to learn Aikido for yourself, you should find your local or nearest Dojo. There is a link to a UK Aikido web site in the left hand column of this page, or alternatively you can Google search Aikido.