Aikido is a martial art created by Morihei Ueshiba. He said, “The objective of Aikido is to polish one’s mind and body and to produce an individual of high integrity.”

The goal of Aikido training is not perfection of a step or skill, but rather improving one’s character according to the rules of nature. One becomes “resilient” inside yet this strength is expressed softly. Movements found in nature are efficient, rational, and soft, while the center is immovable, firm, and stable.

Aikido movement maintains this firm and stable center with an emphasis on spherical rotation characterized by flowing, circular, dance-like motions. These pivoting, entering and circling motions are used to control and overcome the opponent. The principle of spherical rotation makes it possible to defend one self from an opponent of superior size, strength, and experience.

At the heart of Aikido is the Eastern concept of Ki — the universal creative principle. Aikido seeks to unite this universal Ki with the Ki (life force or breath) found within each person. Literally, Aikido translates as “the way of harmony with Ki.”