Aikido is a martial art developed in Japan by Morihei Ueshiba, known to Aikidoists as O’Sensei.  While it’s present form is relatively modern, it’s roots lie in several traditional martial arts studied by O’Sensei studied in his early life.

Aikido techniques involve joint locks, throws and pins, with the emphasis being on taking opponents’ balance. Punching and kicking are not emphasised in Aikido.  Instead students use their opponents’ attacking energy to throw them, or to bring them to the ground in a controlled manner.

Along with the physical aspects of the art there is a strong moral and ethical code of conduct. All Aikido techniques are learned cooperatively at a pace suited to the abilities of each student. The goal of Aikido is not to defeat others but to improve oneself through physical and mental training.

“To injure an opponent is to injure yourself.  To control aggression without inflicting injury is the art of peace” Morehei Ueshiba (1883-1969)