Aikido is a self-defence sport, but with no competition element. A Japanese martial art based on a philosophy of non-violence and harmony. Born from the ancient traditions and skills of the Japanese samurai. Despite or perhaps precisely because of its non-violent nature, Aikido is considered a highly effective self-defence method. That makes why Aikido is part of basic training in the police, among other things.
Physical strength is kept to a minimum in Aikido. While suppleness, dynamism, flexibility and inner strength are encouraged in this self-defence sport. After all, there is always someone stronger than you, especially when it comes to male-to-female ratio. It is therefore smarter to using your opponent's strength against him when executing a technique. We do this by moving out of the line of attack and using circular and circular movements to then control too attacker with a clamp or throw away. Techniques therefore require little physical strength and can be practised by young and old alike.
In addition, Aikido no competitions. Where 'ordinary' sports encourage technical progress by competing, the founder of Aikido very deliberately did not choose this option. First and foremost, Aikido is a discipline, designed to fathom the inner meaning of equality and aims to serve, to refine humanity. In competitions, there is one winner. People develop the mental attitude to go all out to win. This attitude can detract from one's personality. A victory is relative and fragile, but a victory over yourself is absolute!
"Aikido is a path of no resistance and is therefore unbeatable from the very beginning. We must become one with our thought, feeling and with grace and compassion of the universal mind. In it is love (Ai), no competition, enemy and no opposition to anyone else. She whose feeling does not coincide with his mentality can in no way come into harmony with the laws of the universe." Morihei Ueshiba (founder)
In Aikido, you will learn 'how' to win without fighting. You will also gradually 'a meeting with yourself' experience on the mat. So know yourself a little better and make a connection between experiences you have had and everyday life. You will also move more freely and focus more on what suits you. You become more aware of yourself and experience your inner strength. The environment Ando provides for this is a determining factor. Aikido as a self-defence sport doesn't make you prettier on the outside, but it does stronger inside.
Fun fact: Aikido is officially recognised by the Ministry of Health, as this martial art makes a positive contribution to people's physical and mental health.
Also, O'Sensei Morihei Ueshiba (founder) received an award from the emperor of Japan for Aikido's contribution to the country's culture.
Sensei Anne throws Edo with a dynamic throw.
Our grandmaster Yoshimitsu Yamada Sensei with sensei
Anne Slui as uke during internship.
Edo sensei throws Anne with a very effective throw, sumi otoshi.
Aikikai is one of the better-known styles within Aikido and is also known as the Aikikai Foundation. The headquarters (Hombu) of this style is in Tokyo, Japan. Where Aikido classes are taught every day by various grandmasters, including the doshu. This is the most important person within the Aikikai. The official successor of Aikido's founder, Morihei Ueshiba. Currently, this role is held by his grandson, Moriteru Ueshiba.
The Aikikai's task is to To support Aikido worldwide and to certify instructors and dojos. Thus, the trainers at Ando, including sensei Edo and Anne Slui 5th dan certified by Aikikai. They have also the title shidoin received from their grandmaster, Yoshimitsu Yamada, which shows that they are highly skilled in Aikido. This gives you confidence that Aikido is taught well as a self-defence sport. Do here the self-test To see if Aikido is right for you!
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