Aikido is a traditional Japanese martial art of movement and power. Translated literally, aikido is “the way of unifying the fundamental energy of the universe”. Its founder, Morihei Ueshiba, envisioned a system and philosophy of martial arts that transcended mere self-defense. Aikido, a true budo or martial way, evolved from the historic tradition of Japanese warrior arts into a highly effective form of self-defense. Using aikido, it is possible to subdue a much larger aggressor using only minimum effort. However, when studied in earnest, budo is not merely a science of techniques and tactics for self-defense but a discipline for perfecting the spirit.

The ultimate objective of budo is the achievement of personal excellence, the development and refinement of a sensitive, balanced, and polished mind, body, and spirit. Aikido practice is cooperative rather than competitive, but training is robust and improves both physical and mental conditioning. Because Aikido does not rely on brute strength but teaches how to blend with and safely neutralize an attack, aikido practice is suitable for men, women, and children of all ages.