Although aikido is a relatively
recent innovation within the world of martial arts, it is heir to a rich
cultural and philosophical background. Aikido was created in Japan by
Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969). Before creating aikido, Ueshiba trained extensively
in several varieties of jujitsu, as well as sword and spear fighting.
Ueshiba also immersed himself in religious studies and developed an ideology
devoted to universal socio-political harmony. Incorporating these principles
into his martial art, Ueshiba developed many aspects of aikido in concert
with his philosophical and religious ideology.
Aikido is not primarily a system of combat,
but rather a means of self-cultivation and improvement. It is an Art which,
in it's original form, is opposed to violence, conflict, and competition,
stressing the importance of self development, rather than the defeat of
others.
Aikido techniques generally work with the
force of an attack, avoiding direct opposition, and great physical strength
is not required to perform effectively.
Warmley Ki Aikido dojo is a relative young dojo
affiliated to Zenshin Dojo Karate and the British Ki Aikido Association, following
the traditional teaching of Aikido, incorporating Ki development exercises taught
by Sensei Kohei.
It must be emphasized that there are no
shortcuts to proficiency in aikido (or in anything else, for that matter).
Consequently, attaining proficiency in aikido is simply a matter of sustained
and dedicated training, improvement comes with hard practice and personal
effort. No one becomes an expert in just a few months or years.
Link to web site, opens in new window
