Aikido training is generally focused on two specific goals: physical perfection of the martial art movements and psychological/spiritual transformation. The psychological/spiritual goal focuses on creating a sense of unity with the universe. This unity eventually allows the practitioner to use their wisdom to contribute to the resolution of conflict. While this may seem contradictory for a martial art, if you were to observe an aikido session, it would perhaps seem more logical.

Aikido training is almost always practiced with a partner. The uke, or "the one who is thrown," and the nage, or "the one who leads" must stay focused on each other. While they are engaged, they are constantly blending and flowing with each other. As the students learn to re-direct their partner's actions, they also learn to control their tendency to overreact to opposing forces.

Remaining centered at all times is crucial to aikido training, and this can be carried out in situations outside the dojo. Life is a battlefield, and the dojo is a place where the battles are played out, but always resolved. Centering is also pertinent to the physical aspects of aikido. All force in aikido movements is generated from the practitioner's center of gravity. This allows the aikidoist to remain stable and balanced at all times. This sense of being grounded and centered is actually essential to all sports. Once someone accomplishes this, they are able to swiftly react to all outside forces.

While aikido training enhances endurance, strength and flexibility, the movements themselves do not depend on strength. This makes it a "user friendly" martial art form that can be practiced by people of all levels of fitness. At Aikitaiji, we blend aikido training with tai chi in a method we are sure you will enjoy.