What is Aikido

Aikido is a Japanese martial art invented and developed at the beginning of the XXth century by Morihei Ueshiba \1883-1969\. He developed and synthesized it out of various martial arts, which he studied in his youth.

Many of the arts and techniques in Aikido actually date from more than 700 years ago. Its practical experience in these arts is one of the richest.

Aikido is one of the most complex and sophisticated martial arts - an effective doctrine for development, integration, and harmonization of all human strength. The methods of Aikido give the opportunity for development and perfection of individual's physical, mental and spiritual values. Aikido is a means of reconciliation, of giving protection, of self-perfection, rather than a means of acquiring physical and technical superiority over other human beings. It is a path - lifestyle and self-development, rather than a way of achieving one's goals of life through attack. It is self-defense only in super extreme situations, when one's life is in danger, instead of attack and aggression.

The word Aikido itself means method or way \DO\ for co-ordination and harmony \AI\, with the energy of mind \Ki\. Therefore, the meaning of the word Aikido is: a way by which co-ordination and harmony between physical and mental energy is achieved.

Aikido is not a sport, as there are no competitions in it, only seminars and public demonstrations. It can be practiced by everyone, regardless of his or her age and sex. That's why it is a unique system for the development of an individual.