Aikido relies on technique not strength, blending with the opponent and using their own momentum against themselves.

​

Aikido has the ability to offer more than self-defence by offering a holistic approach to life which is referred to as “budo” (ie.: a set of moral values), which is a long term (years) activity, or journey, of physical and cognitive self-improvement.

Some of the benefits of Aikido training are improved:

• Agility

• Reflexes

• Coordination

• Flexibility

• Relaxation

• Targeting, distance & timing

• Posture

• Body Movement

Both the study of Aikido & Shinto Muso Ryu requires training in pairs. This can assist with developing a number of positive characterisitcs such as:

• cooperation & respect of others

• patience

• awareness

• confidence

• self-discipline

• tenacity

• resiliance

The meaning of Aikido

To try and put it together, a very rough translation could be to describe Aikido as a method to blend with your opponents movements and energy. 

There is an abundance of information on the internet about Aikido. Thus, I will not attempt to replicate or plagiarise it. Any information I have provided is either basic or what I deem essential. For example, what is Budo?