About Aikido

Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba, known as Ō-Sensei meaning “great teacher”. Aikido is a synthesis of Ō-Sensei's martial studies, philosophy and religious beliefs. The art uses throws, locks and pins as its principal movements.  Translated as “the way of harmonious spirit” the primary goal for the practice of aikido is to overcome oneself instead of cultivating violence or aggressiveness.

合
Ai, meaning “joining” or “harmonising”

氣
Ki, meaning “breath”, or “energy”

道
Dō, meaning “way” or “path”

At Gen Sen Jyuku, the Aikido club at the University of Warwick, the classes start with warm up using various stretching and conditioning exercises. We strengthen the core so that the body can be ready to receive a technique as well as deliver one efficiently. Our focus is in promoting good health and ensuring enjoyable lifelong practice.

After the conditioning exercises we continue with unarmed training, also known as body art. Beginners start by learning the basic body movements in both solo and partner practice; they are introduced to the art of ukemi, which includes falling safely, but more importantly allows the absorption of their partner’s motion with the whole of their body, preventing injuries.

Weapons training is equally introduced to beginners, where they will gain understanding and practice in bokken and jo work. The bokken is a wooden sword whereas the jo is a 4-foot long wooden staff. They are both practiced in solo and partner exercises.

cr: Ei Mei Kan