Aikido is a practical effective Japanese martial art derived from traditional jujutsu and Japanese swordsmanship. Aikido employs the use of the martial principle "aiki" or blending to receive, redirect and neutralize aggressive energy from an attacker. Applied forcefully in a real life situation, the joint locks and throws in Aikido are effective tools for self defense.
Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969) developed Aikido. He was famed for being undefeated by any challenger in Japan. Aikido was originally for elite martial artists. They would be sent to challenge Ueshiba. When defeated, they would become his students.
With consistent practice, Aikido practitioners develop a greater degree of overall fitness, flexibility, coordination and core strength. Aikido practice particularly develops the musculature in the lower abdomen, buttocks and legs. A greater awareness of one's surroundings, ones own actions and interactions also tend to be a product of training. This too can apply in a martial context.
Yes. Often practitioners find the study of neutralizing aggression transfers into how they deal with stress or conflict in their daily lives. Aikido's founder based his teachings on spiritual principles with the intention of using the discipline to create reconciliation and harmony in the world. Aikido translated literally means "the way of harmony."
We recommend that practitioners be at least 12 as this is a program directed more towards adults. Still, Aikido is excellent for any age or stature. It is very useful for people of a smaller stature as there is no need for competitions of strength. Technique and the principle of "aiki" (blending) are more effective than contests of strength. For this reason, the art is an excellent choice for women.