Aikido Inner Sunset

Aikido, “The way of harmony,” is a non-violent, non-resisting martial discipline. To the untrained eye it appears as if one has supernatural abilities in the art of self-defense. This is an exaggeration of the truth. Anyone can study and practice Aikido.

The friendly environment of the Aikido dojo makes learning this fantastic art a great way to meet new people and make friends.

The essence of Aikido technique is spherical motion around a stable and dynamic center. Aikido is known for its graceful techniques, swift yet seemingly effortless. Effective application is the result of precise timing, leverage, and the correct use of force. The ultimate aim is personal transformation. However, the focus of the dojo (training hall) is practical. Repetition and hard work are required to master the basic fundamentals of training.

Why Aikido?

• Aikido places great emphasis on the dynamics of motion and movement. On a purely mechanical level, Aikido is an art involving balance, timing, joint locks, physical controls, pins, immobilization, and the science, physics, and mechanics of the human body and mind.

• The wealth of non-lethal controlling techniques inherited by Aikido and its well-known philosophy of avoiding violence and neutralizing conflict with a minimum of force make Aikido ideal for persons concerned with non-violent self-defense.

• Aikido is unique in the world of martial arts. Aikido is not competitive. There are no competitions, contests, sparring, nor tournaments. There are no winners; there are no losers; there is no score; no one is keeping any score. Instead, Aikido techniques are learned cooperatively according to the pace and skill of each practitioner.

• The underlying defensive principles of Aikido make it ideal for the less physical to learn as a method of self defense, though there are many other benefits to the practitioner as training progresses, namely improved level of fitness, Weight Loss, Self-confidence, Relaxation / Stress relief, Co-ordination.

Aikido is a powerful method of self protection that can be studied by men and women of all ages. In Aikido one defends oneself without hurting others. To attain such an ability one must achieve a certain level of mindfulness, physical fitness, and spirit. The basis of this unity is a harmonious combination of physical means and ethical motives. Thus, Aikido is not a sport.

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