Aikido

Aikido is a modern martial art (gendai budo) developed by Morihei Ueshiba in the middle of the 20th century. Aikido is based on many older Japanese martial arts, in particularly on a school of jujutsu called daito-ryu aiki-jujutsu, and also owes a lot to the samurai tradition of the feudal Japan. Aikido is in its essence a grappling martial art, much like judo, and in this way differs from striking arts exemplified by many styles of karate. This implies that aikido uses mainly joint locks and throws, although aikido training also includes some strikes and the use of weapons (a staff, a wooden sword and defense against knife attacks).

What distinguishes aikido from many other combat systems is its attitude toward the aggressor. Aikido teaches us that in confrontation, it is essential that one does not behave like a beast, trying only to injure their opponent at all costs. While it is true that aikido techniques allow a dangerous use of force in extreme situations, they are nevertheless designed to neutralize the energy of the attacker and channel it away from its direction. Therefore, the main objective of aikido is to resolve violence with as little harm to anyone involved as possible, since this is the only way to restore harmony and peace in the world.  Morihei Ueshibastrongly believed that the goal of aikido and indeed all martial arts is to protect, not destroy life. Virtually every move in aikido is based on circular motion and follows the movement of the opponent, because in a head-on confrontation one is always bound to face someone who is stronger than even the most skillful fighter.

However, one should not assume that aikido's ideals are or detached from reality. Learning aikido is an ongoing process rooted in dedication and hard training that strengthens the body and sharpens the spirit. Anyone can benefit from practicing aikido in some way, since its advantages go beyond self-defense and allow practitioners to deal more effectively with stress and difficult situations of everyday life. Aikido consists of various practical principles that can lead one to better physical health and fitness, spiritual equilibrium, and personal growth. It is appropriate for the young and the old, men and women alike. Aikido practice is characterized by the lack of competition, which is replaced by the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect for everyone involved.

Aikido Styles

Much like virtually every other martial art, aikido underwent a historical development that resulted in the emergence of various styles. While they all tend to share basic principles and techniques, aikido schools nevertheless differ in ways that these techniques are taught and applied. There are many aikido dojos in Slovenia operating under various names, which can confuse newcomers to this art since aikido websites often fail to reveal whether the particular name pertains to a dojo or an aikido style. Listed below are short descriptions of the most popular styles of aikido around the world.

Aikikai aikido

This is the most widespread style of aikido in the world, which is becoming increasingly popular in Slovenia too. Today, it is practiced under Moriteru Ueshiba, the grandson of O´Sensei and current doshu, in the Hombu Dojo, which is considered the cradle of this martial art. Aikikai is a mixture of all of the elements that constitute aikido, and encompasses ki exercises, empty-hand techniques, the use of weapons, as well as katas.

Ki-aikido

Ki-aikido has a reputation of being a "soft" aikido style. It was founded by Koichi Tohei, a close student of O´Sensei. It emphasizes ki and the cultivation of this inner energy.

Iwama-ryu aikido

The founder of this style was Morihiro Saito, one of the last and closest students of O´Sensei. The style remains true to traditional teachings of  Ueshiba and dedicates a lot of time to practice with wooden weapons.

Yoshinkan aikido

Yoshinkan aikido is considered a "hard" style of aikido, renowned for its very rigorous practice. It is used by the Tokyo riot police. Its founder was Gozo Shioda.

Tomiki aikido

Kenji Tomiki first studied judo under Jigoro Kano and later became one of O´Sensei's pupils. He excelled in both arts and eventually rose to the rank of 8th Dan in both judo and aikido. His style is known for competitions that other aikido schools normally lack.

Real aikido

This is one of the newer and "harder" styles. Techniques are mostly empty-hand and sometimes similar to jujutsu techniques. Real aikido is the brainchild of Ljubomir Vračarević.