What is Aikido?
The word Aikido can be translated as “The Way of Harmony with the Spirit or Energy.” Aikido is a modern Budo (Martial Way of life) whose origins are based in the samurai traditions of ancient Japan, namely that of the Aizu clan and Daito Ryu Aikijujutsu. This Martial Way employs an array of physical striking, throwing and joint manipulation techniques that can be used to neutralise any form of aggression. Central to the philosophy of this art is the concept of evading and controlling conflict through the integration of an individual’s inner and outer faculties. On its highest levels, Aikido can become a way of approaching life that enables an individual to fully integrate mind, body, spirit, environment and society, generating a harmonious and peaceful existence through a non-contentious spirit. By becoming centred within his/her own integrated self, the Aikido practitioner should be able to deal with life and aggression with a clear and empty mind (mushin) without becoming drawn into and confused by the energetics and chaos that may accompany a particular conflict situation.
Shodokan is a style of Aikido created by Shihan Kenji Tomiki, the first 8th Dan under Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido. This style is also known as Aikido Kyogi (Sport Aikido). Tomiki Shihan was also a highly skilled exponent (8th Dan) of Jigoro Kano’s Kodokan Judo and a direct student of Kano as well. As such, Tomiki created a system of Aikido training that includes free-play or randori to develop it into a modern form of physical education much like Judo. This is the Aikido taught at the Trinidad and Tobago Aikido Club (Shodokan Trinidad).
Like all other Aikido systems, techniques are taught and learnt utilizing the practice of basic forms and kata. It also utilises a training method that includes randori or free practice. However, unlike most Aikido, Shodokan randori practice goes to the point where the attacker is allowed to resist techniques with full force, enabling the student to break from the predefined, protected environment of kata and basic randori, into the realm of developing techniques to work against a skilled and resisting opponent. It is here that the cultivation of Shobu Ho (method of "fighting") begins. It is here that one begins to learn how to apply Aikido and modify techniques to fit dynamic self defence situations.
The benefits of Aikido are various and wide-ranging. On the physical level it fosters a high degree of co-ordination and serves to promote development of reflexes and timing through its basic practices of form and technique. It also serves to improve overall circulation and respiration, a direct result of its deep abdominal breathing exercises. The aerobic benefits of free practice also help to tone the body on a muscular and cardiovascular level. As a result of these elements, Aikido training also acts as a supplement to an individual’s training in practically any other sporting activity.
One of Aikido’s benefits is that of self-defence. By using basic exercises and practical techniques of linear and circular entry and evasion, Aikido applies basic laws of physics to redirect and control an opponent’s aggressive energy. The redirected energy is manifested in a variety of throws, locks and pins applied to the joints and limbs and other areas of the body. Atemi, or striking of anatomical weak points are also used. Through the use of techniques that co-ordinate all of one’s physical and mental energy it also allows for effective self-defence without necessitating excesses of physical strength, making this art ideal for practice by both sexes and all ages. Aikido's non-contentious approach to conflict and awareness training also aids in self defence at the pre-emptive level by evading and redirecting conflicting energy before things degenerate into physical exchange. This way the use of physical techniques only occur in the rarest of cases where resolution cannot be found by other means.
On the psychological level, Aikido, like other forms of exercise, provides proven outlets for accumulated “mental debris” or stress. As a practice centred on the reduction or elimination of mental tensions, the usually good-humoured atmosphere of an Aikido dojo often shocks the newcomer who is accustomed to the oftentimes tense, rigidly controlled atmosphere typical of the practice of many other martial arts.
The Philosophy that is central to Aikido training also has many benefits that pervade all levels of one’s being. Through training, one realises that fighting and interpersonal conflict in general only occurs when elements of perception within one’s own mind and the energies within his/her environment and society are not acting in balance and harmony. Constant training engenders a total understanding of these concepts as they are applied in a practical way, via the medium of physical techniques. Aikido is designed so that one can defend oneself from an "enlightened" perspective. As such, one seeks to control any type of aggression, without wanting or needing to cause serious injury to the aggressor. The Philosophical teachings of Aikido also apply many of the concepts propagated in many religions to a real life environment. As such, Aikido creates an ideal way to harmonise exercise, self-defence, stress release and psycho-spiritual conditioning in a very welcoming and relaxed class atmosphere.