What is Aikido?

Aikido is a unique martial art, in that it isn’t solely a system of combat. It’s also a means of self-cultivation and self-improvement. As a rule, Aikido doesn’t have tournaments, competitions, or contests. Aikido is taught in a cooperative environment, at a pace commensurate with the abilities of individual students. As students advance, technique execution advances to include addressing “resistance” and “pressure” during attacks. This doesn’t reflect negatively on the potential of Aikido techniques for self-defense. The prohibition of competition and the use of cooperative training methods allows students to practice potentially dangerous techniques with reduced risk of injury. The overall objective is to learn together in a reduced-risk environment that supports development of solid, effective, martial technique.

To learn more about Aikido, please feel free to contact us or drop by our dojo to visit. The Aikido FAQ , a comprehensive online reference, developed over several decades, is also an excellent place to start.

How is Iwama-Ryu Aikido Different?

Iwama-Ryu Aikido is fundamentally based on the union of ken (sword), jo (staff), and taijutsu (body) techniques. The Iwama-Ryu teaching methodology focuses, in the early stages of training, on kihon waza, or fundamental techniques. Beginners start with attacks/holds from a static, non-moving, position.  This encourages an understanding of the mechanics of individual techniques (angle of movement, extension, unbalancing an opponent) and develops strong balance and stability. After establishing a solid foundation, students move on to study more complex techniques, including reversals and dynamic responses to “pressure”. The basic Iwama-Ryu Aikido technical curriculum consists of more than 500 defined techniques against a complete variety of possible attacks.

Come Explore Iwama-Ryu Aikido

Iwama-Ryu, like other styles of Aikido, emphasizes a harmonious response to an attack. The objective isn’t to defeat an attacker. Ultimately students learn to blend with an attacker’s aggressive action, taking control of conflict, and diffusing it, while simultaneously seeking to minimize harm. We believe that robust and dedicated training represents the path to understanding and embodying Aikido.