About Aikido

Aikido originated in Japan in the early 20th century and was founded by Morihei Ueshiba (1883–1969). Ueshiba, also known as O'Sensei, combined traditional Japanese martial arts, such as jujutsu and kenjutsu, with his spiritual beliefs rooted in Shinto and Omoto-kyo. His goal was to create a martial art that emphasized harmony, peace, and self-improvement rather than aggression or competition. The name “Aikido” translates to “the way of harmony with energy,” reflecting its philosophy of blending with an opponent’s force rather than opposing it. Over time, Aikido spread worldwide, becoming known for its flowing movements, joint locks, and throws, as well as its integration of weapons training with bokken (wooden sword), jo (staff), and tanto (knife).