Lihue Aiki Kai

About Aikido and Aikido Training

• Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba (1883 - 1969). It represents the essence of "Budo"... a warrior's method of mental, physical and spiritual cultivation.
• Individual Japanese characters for Aikido can be translated this way:

  Ai - Love or Harmony

  Ki - Spirit or Life Force

  Do - Path or Way.

  Collectively, the characters' English translation is "the way of spiritual harmony". Mastery of Aikido demands the integration of the mind, body and spirit... a state in which thought and action become one.

• Knowledge and mastery of Aikido involves 4 stages:

  1) Learn the forms

  2) Become fluid in its execution

  3) Adapt forms to varied conditions

  4) Develop a proper mind-set

• Inherent philosophy of Aikido promotes harmony between people. Consequently, there is no formal competition or contest. The intent is to resolve conflict rather than to escalate aggression.

  Strategies are based on a principle of non-contention or non-resistance. The objective is to overcome and control a physically and technically superior attacker.

  Tactics include grappling and striking. Rather than relying on brute strength, emphasis is placed on proper body mechanics, positioning and timing.

• Development of the proper execution of techniques allows one to experience "Aiki" or spiritual harmony. Practice involves paired exercises where the fundamentals of each technique are learned.
• Overall benefits of regular exercise that is safe for almost anyone is what Aikido offers. Continued practice will promote a sense of well being, and cultivate greater self-discipline and self-confidence. You will meet and get to know others who care about their mental, physical and spiritual health. Additionally, it provides an effective form of self defense.