What is Aikido?
The Japanese word Aikido consists of three characters which can be translated as "the way of unity with the fundamental force of the universe." Aikido is a true Budo or "Martial Way." It has evolved in the historic tradition of Japanese warrior arts. It must be understood that studies in earnest Budo is more than a science of tactics and self-defense; it is a discipline for perfecting the spirit.
Aikido was developed by Morihei Ueshiba, known to thousands of students of Aikido throughout the world as O-Sensei (Great Teacher). Even as a young man, Morihei Ueshiba was an extraordinary martial artist; a master of the sword, the staff, the spear, as well as the art of jiu-jitsu. But O-Sensei also had a strong spiritual drive, and brooded over the futility of a path based on victory over others. After many years of intense training he presented his own refined system to the world: AIKIDO!
"The secret of Aikido," he wrote, "is to harmonize with the movement of the universe and bring ourselves into accord with the universe itself."
