What Is Yoshinkan Aikido?
Aikido is a martial art that uses flowing circular motions to subdue an aggressor. "Ai Ki Do" translates as:
"Ai" - harmony / blending;
"Ki" - spirit / intention;
"Do" - way
Aikido is, therefore, the way of blending with the opponent's intentions.
The motions of Aikido allow a practitioner to move around an opponent's power, taking his balance and either controlling him or throwing him to the ground. These techniques are effective even against much larger and stronger opponents.
Yoshinkan Aikido is sometimes referred to as the "hard style" of Aikido, due to the strict attention paid to correct form throughout all motions and techniques.
Aikido has no sparring or competition. Training is done individually or in pairs. Each pair works together in a co-operative manner to improve the form and effectiveness of the techniques. All techniques are first learned in such formal "kata". As the student progresses, techniques become more fluid.
Students of all levels are encouraged to maintain a "beginners mind"