Link to MamasHealth.com
MamasHealth.com Home
Martial Arts Information

Aikido
Choosing a Martial Art
Hapkido
Karate
San Shou
Tae Kwon Do

Links

Email Mama

Orange seared tofu

Inexpensive Treadmills

Fitness Accessories



 

What is Aikido?

Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art. Aikido literally means 'harmony energy way' or 'way of the harmonious spirit'. Individuals who practice aikido are called aikidoka.

Aikido was developed by Morihei Ueshiba. Individuals who practice aikido refer to Morihei Ueshiba as o-sensei.

Some Aikido techniques were derived from Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu and kenjutso. Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu is a form of Jujutsu with many joint techniques. Kenjutsu is a Japanese sword technique.

Aikido Techniques

Aikido incorporates a wide range of techniques which use principles of energy and motion to redirect, neutralize and control attackers.

One of the central martial philosophies of aikido is to be able to handle multiple-attacker circumstances fluidly. Randori, practice against multiple opponents, is a key part of the curriculum in most aikido schools and is required for the higher level belts.

One of the main philosophies of aikido is that the aikidoka (person practicing aikido) should gain control of their opponent as quickly as possible, while causing the least amount of damage possible to either party. If performed correctly, size and strength are not important for aikido techniques to be effective.

Aikido Defense

Aikido defense techniques are largely designed towards keeping the attacker off balance and locking joints. Many aikido defenses can be performed either as throwing techniques or as pins. Entering, striking and turning, are widely used aikido techniques.

Aikido Offense

Aikido offense techniques consist largely of stylized strikes and grabs. Kicks are sometimes used, but are not usually part of basic curricula.

Some common aikido strikes are:

a vertical strike to the head, a lateral strike to the side of the head and/or neck, and a straight punch.

Some common aikido grabs are:

  • a two handed grab
  • a shoulder grab

Featured Book

Health Book

Advertise on MamasHealth.com

Sponsor a contest on MamasHealth.com

 

Hot Topics:

Domestic Violence: A pre-existing condition?

Serena: The wanna be vegetarian

Personal Story: How I recovered from my Eating Disorder

Mama wants to help: Food Bank programs and shelter assistance

Lucy Goes Green: Talk dirty to me

How to avoid Swine Flu

What no one will tell you about tummy tuck surgery

Mama's favorite item of the week: Trees for the Future

Foods for weight loss

Win a Gift Bag filled with Goodies from Stonyfield

Information obtained from MamasHealth.com™ should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner, nor should it be inferred as such. Always check with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about a specific condition.

Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the Terms of Use.
Contact us: PO Box 2170, Pasadena, CA 91102-2170

©2000 - 2009 MamasHealth, Inc.™. All rights reserved

Link to MamasHealth.com