About Aikido

        Aikido is a Japanese martial art that was created by Morihei Ueshiba (O'Sensei) in the early 1900's.  It combines elements of Juijitsu, sword, and spear training.  Aikido is the way of harmony, so students are taught to blend with an attack, rather than "fighting" against it.  This allows students to defend themselves against bigger, stronger attackers.  Training focuses on rolling, falling, and stretching joints to be able to perform the techniques.  Students work in pairs, taking turns being attacker and defender.  While the physical techniques are emphasized, there are also psychological and spiritual aspects.  The appeal of Aikido is the flexibility of mind and body that occurs.  It can be adapted to many different situations.  It is a path, that once started, may last a lifetime.