Aikido
Transformation is an outcome of the unique martial system that is Aikido. “Aiki” translates to blending body with mind to the movements of energy and “Do” means a way or path chosen towards self-realization. As a system of self-defense, Aikido employs techniques based upon circular motions that first blend with the attack and energy of your opponent, then imbalance the opponent, leading to a throw or pin.
Aikido is characterized by the repetitive practice of empty-handed “body art” techniques (tai-jutsu), known as kata (or forms), until movement flows naturally. Circles and spirals predominate in the techniques. In the rhythm of practice, partners change roles allowing each to feel both aspects (attack and defense) of the technique. This training includes empty-hand techniques along with sword, staff, and knife defenses. Our dojo is committed to a training atmosphere of mutual cooperation and respect.
The intensity and focus of martial training is a way to increase self-awareness, as well as to unify the mind and body. Through regular aikido practice we improve how we manage ourselves under pressure and in conflict, increase our understanding of the impact we have on others, and cultivate a sense of maturity, harmony, and integration in our lives. As we practice, we strive to embody these qualities and cultivate our “aikido body.”
The fact that there are no competitions in Aikido is a logical conclusion of its philosophy. Since winning and losing are not a concern, practitioners are free to dedicate their efforts to personal and mutual goals. It is therefore possible for adults and children of all ages to walk the path of budo, the heart of Aikido.
Read an article by D. Bluhm Sensei about Cultivating the Aikido Body and learn more about the pillars: Centered, Connected, Whole, Lively, and Open.
Weapons
As a student progresses, the principles of Aikido are deepened and enhanced through the use of the bokken (wooden sword), jo (wooden staff), and tanto (wooden knife).
Weapons work reveals the importance of proper distance, timing, and precision of body movement. It also develops a student’s breathe and concentration. Techniques for responding to multiple assailants and weapons take-away are also studied.
What distinguishes Aikido from Jiu-Jitsu and other arts is it's integration of body arts (unarmed) with weapons techniques. Posture, movement, and awareness for both attacker and defender are virtually identical whether or not an actual weapon is present.
T. K. Chiba Sensei, the founder of our Birankai lineage of Aikido, was particularly known for this integration of weapons work and body arts.
I think that instead of analyzing and comparing how each technique or movement is related to weapons work, it makes much more sense to me to see and feel the sameness in executing one’s energy by which aikido is distinguished from other martial arts. …the writer Tenryu, a famous Sumo wrestler who once challenged O-Sensei, was defeated, and became O-Sensei’s uchideshi thereafter, describes aikido by saying that it is a martial art which is the ultimate transformation of swordsmanship into a body art. I personally agree with his statement, and have been deeply inspired by this. However, it no longer matters to me nowadays to say which comes first, body arts or weapons. I see no difference.
– T.K. Chiba, April, 1994