Aikido Auckland - The Art of Not Fighting

First impressions of aikido are of fluidity, grace and almost magical movement, very different from the usual depictions of martial arts in popular culture. Many people immediately feel that “I want to be able to move like that.”

Aikido is a martial art specializing in throwing, locking joints and immobilization, practiced both empty handed and with weapons, giving it a broad spectrum of expression.

Aikido could be called the martial art of not fighting. It joins with aggressive force, rather than fighting against it. Size and strength are less important than good technique and being able to relate skillfully. Consequently, aikido is popular with a wide variety of people of all ages, gender and backgrounds.

Aikido draws on the legacy of classical Japanese martial arts, the arts of the fabled samurai, but imbues them with a new spirit of nonresistance and conciliation. The possibility of avoiding confrontation, or being able to neutralise it with the least possible damage, appeals to many people.

As a means of self development, aikido is likened to the forging of Japanese swords. Impurities are removed from iron ore and carbon is introduced to create a strong, flexible and beautiful steel blade. Aikido students forge their bodies, minds and spirits, giving up ineffective behaviours and taking on positive ones, becoming more resilient, adaptive and graceful in life.

And... aikido is a lot of fun!