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Aikido is a traditional Japanese Budo (martial art) that roughly translates to “the way to unify and harmonize with universal energy.” On a very basic level, Aikido is a highly effective form of self-defense that teaches you how to protect yourself without the use of violent kicking or punching. An Aikidoist learns how to defend oneself without meeting force with force. Aikido is an art that uses throws, locks and pins. At all times, it is stressed that Aikido’s power does not come from raw physical strength. The flowing movements of Aikido allows for the redirection and naturalization of the energy contained in the incoming attack. With Aikido, it is possible to join with even the fiercest attack and redirect its power safely and effectively.
The ultimate aim of Aikido training is not mere effectiveness in combat: above all, training is an encounter with one's self, and the process of Aikido training is one of self-exploration, development and transformation. The philosophy of Aikido is used as a means of dealing with all aspects of life. Aikido teaches you how to avoid confrontations and helps you stay calm and centered in the midst of adversity. The goal of Aikido is the development of patience and compassion as expressed through its techniques. The physical aspects of Aikido are just a stepping stone to the true understanding of peace and harmony.
Since Aikido doesn’t rely on physical strength, Aikido can be practiced by men, women and children of all ages. Staying true to its core beliefs, there are no competitive tournaments in Aikido. In a typical Aikido class, students learn through repetitive practice, taking turns as attackers and defenders in an energetic yet safe atmosphere.
History of Aikido
 Aikido is the creation of one remarkable man, Morihei Ueshiba, commonly known as O’Sensei (great teacher). Although O’Sensei studied a variety of traditional martial arts including jujitsu (unarmed combat), kenjitsu (sword fighting) and sojitsu (spear fighting) the creation of Aikido is more than just a synthesis of those arts. Even though he became one of the most renowned martial artists of all time, in the aftermath of World War II he saw how futile fighting was. He concluded that the road to ultimate victory came not from fighting with aggressors but from harmonizing with them. Aikido is the expression of this understanding. O’Sensei continued his practice of Aikido until his death at age 86. Just days before, O’Sensei on his deathbed said "Aikido is for the entire world. Train not for selfish reasons, but for all people everywhere." After he passed away on April 26, 1969, the Japanese government bestowed its highest honor, declaring Morihei Ueshiba to be a Sacred National Treasure of Japan.
Additional Aikido Resources
http://www.aikikai.or.jp/eng/index.htm
http://www.usaikifed.com
http://aikidofaq.com
http://www.aikidojournal.com
http://www.aikiweb.com
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