Aikido is a non-competitive martial art that promotes non-violent resolution of conflict. The movements have low impact, are graceful and circular and are executed from a strong, balanced center. Aikido practice requires rigorous mental discipline and strict adherence to a code of etiquette. Besides enhancing self-defense skills, regular training increases stamina, health, mental focus and inner peace. Any one with average mobility, irrespective of sex, age and religion, can practice Aikido and derive benefits.
Aikido was founded in Japan in the early 1920s by Morihei Ueshiba ('O sensei'). The Founder was a famous martial artist well versed in hand-to-hand combat and weaponry who sought spiritual enlightenment through practices that tuned him into the Universal Energy. He achieved his quest and created Aikido as a way to reconcile the world. O Sensei had many disciples throughout the time of his training, and each disciple learned Aikido at a different stage of it's development. Some disciples have formed their own traditions within the art of Aikido, based upon where Aikido had developed during the time that they were training with O Sensei. Some prominent disciples of O sensei include:
- Morihiro Saito Sensei, student of the Aikikai Style and founder of Iwama Ryu Aikido
- Soke Gozo Shioda, founder of Yoshinkan Aikido
- Koichi Tohei, founder of the Ki Society and Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido
- Mitsugi Saotome, student of the Aikikai Style
- Shuji Maruyama, founder of Kokikai Aikido
Aikido though not being practiced as a competitive sport is nevertheless a powerful form of martial art. Locks, hooks and forms of grappling will force an opponent into painful positions, often onto the ground.
Aikido instruction in Davis is available at
- Aikido Institute Davis
- Davis Aikikai through the Experimental College
- Davis Doshin-Aikido at the Activities and Recreation Center through the Fitness and Wellness Center
- Kokikai Aikido with Davis Kokikai offers a class at the ARC.
