WHAT IS AIKIDO?
Aikido was founded by O'Sensei Morihei Ueshiba, in the 20th century. Ueshiba created Aikido by synthesizing ancient Japanese martial arts. Aikido is in essence a budo, or warrior's way. Budo represents a lifestyle that is based on physical, mental and spiritual development.
Aikido emphasizes harmony and non-violence. By training Aikido, you can learn to do the right thing when you are challenged physically or psychologically. Aikido helps you to master your body, breath and mental state, it also improves posture, reflexes, balance, flexibility and timing. O'Sensei Ueshiba states that the warrior's path can not be conveyed by words or writing, thus we welcome you to train with us to get a deeper understanding.
Dojo Etiquette
Entering / Leaving; Bow at the door and at the edge of the mat.
Arriving late; Sit in seiza off the mat; join only after the instructor invites you.
During drills; Keep conversation to a minimum, focus on your partner, move with control.
Partner work; Bow & say “thank you” before and after each exercise.
After a demonstration; A quick bow + “arigatō gozaimasu” to the instructor shows respect.
Glossary
Dojo; Training hall
Kamiza; Honour alcove/front of dojo
Sensei; Teacher, instructor
Senpai; Senior student
Seiza;Formal kneeling-sit
Ukemi; Safe falling technique
Kyu; White-belt grades (7 → 1)
Dan; Black-belt grades (1 → 10)
Bokken; Wooden sword
Jo; Wooden staff
Tanto; Wooden knife
Tai-sabaki; Body-movement / stepping
Shikko; Knee-walking
6 Kyu Techniques
Footwork/Movement
Tai-sabaki – body movement & entries
Ikkyo – basic arm control
Ukemi – safe rolls & falls
Controls & Throws
Shiho-nage – four-direction throw
Shikko – knee-walking
Kote-gaeshi – wrist-turn throw
Irimi-nage – entering throw
Kokyu-ho – breath-power exercise