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A Japanese Budo
Aikido is unique among the martial arts, in
being inherently peaceful as well as traditional in its
approach and methods of training. Aikido has various technical aspects:
hand-to-hand techniques and weapon techniques (sword and stick).
Although it is a physical discipline, there is no kicking, punching, or
any kind of ‘fighting’. There are also no competitions. As a traditional
Budo (Japanese martial art), Aikido emphasizes self-development while maintaining its martial aspect.
Aikido is a Japanese traditional martial art, a Budo. Budos were used to educate
physically and morally the dominant class of Japan’s society, the
samurais.
The founder of Aikido,
Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969), was an expert in Daito Ryu and in Sojutsu. Over time he promoted a traditional and peaceful approach of Budo. Before World War II, Aikido was restricted
to the elite such as: budo experts, nobles, military leaders and high
personalities. After World War II, the art was opened to
the world. |
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