Aikido (The art of harmony) is a modern martial art founded by Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969), who developed it from the state of a battle technique to that of a spiritual way. Based upon principles of non-aggression, non-resistance, and non-competitiveness, it is unique in that it allows people to defend themselves against larger and stronger attackers, without requiring great strength or speed, yet it also teaches us to understand and respect our fellow Man. The gentle quality of Aikido makes it appealing to men and women and children regardless of age. It not only offers spiritual development, mental concentration, balance, reflex action and exercise, it also teaches Japanese etiquette and positive behaviour.
(Read more about Aikido on the Takemusu Aikido Association website.
The philosophy of our training syllabus involved the close integration of taijitsu, or empty-hand techniques, and bukiwaza, or weapons techniques. Taijutsu are performed from a seated or standing position and develop a flowing yet powerful movement with the partner. Bukiwaza uses the bokken (wooden sword) and jo (wooden staff) to ensure a strong foundation for body movement and ki.