What is Aikido?

Aikido kanji

“Aikido” translates roughly to “Path of harmonizing with energy.”

Aikido is a powerful and dynamic Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba O-Sensei in the early 20th century. Aikido is used internationally by military and law enforcement groups, medical personnel, security organizations, and women’s groups. Aikido students learn to defend themselves without aggression, and the art’s peaceful philosophy is compatible with cultural and religious beliefs throughout the world.

Aikido is rooted in the traditions of Japanese budo (warrior ways), and is practiced not only for its defensive skills and fitness benefits,but as a path of internal training and development. Stressing peaceful resolution of conflict whenever possible and avoidance of inflicting injury, Aikido may be practiced by anyone of just about any age. Men, women, and children can practice together.

Classes at Our Dojo

In addition to teaching self-defense skills, classes offer adults an excellent method of managing stress, developing physical fitness and flexibility, and improving their general outlook and health. Training develops heightened concentration and awareness, and increases self-confidence and energy. Training includes stretching, meditation and breathing exercises, self-defense techniques, and instruction in safe falling.

Training for children offers youngsters an opportunity to increase their self-defense skills and their awareness of dangerous situations and how to avoid them. Children also gain discipline, self-confidence, and self-respect while learning Aikido at a pace they can appreciate and enjoy.

Aikido is offered in Logan at USU through PE classes and at the Jyushinkan Dojo in the Whittier Center. In addition to these regular classes, intensive seminars led by visiting instructors of the Aikido Association of America are held in Logan or Salt Lake City twice each year.

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