Aikido

Shedding light on the discipline


Aikido originates from a long lineage of Japanese Martial Arts.

Its founder, Morihei UESHIBA (1883 – 1969), combined diverse techniques from sword and spear schools - koryu - and hand combat techniques; those used by Samurai warriors since the Middle Ages.

In 1942, the founder replaced the suffix JUTSU - (AIKI BU - JUTSU = war) by the suffix DO – (AIKI – DO = way/path), thus, this Martial Art became a Martial Discipline. Its goal shifted from the idea of destruction, to the idea of construction of individuals, through a thorough and rigorous training with the intention of mastering the body, and through spiritual commitment. It became a way of life, a philosophy, where competition naturally had no place!

This physical and spiritual discipline, carrying traditional martial values, connects with our modern society’s human stakes and individual development.

Introduced in France in the 50’s - in Marseille by Master Tadashi ABE - it has since, never stopped its dissemination.

What is a Dojo

DO = way/path – JO = place (a place where one searches for the way); it is far from the idea of a gym or sport’s club.
It is a place of respect, harmony, exchange, calm and effort. It is a place that we go to, in order to learn and evolve!

What is the etiquette - Reishiki?

It is a number of rules that govern the behaviour and relations within a group and a place (the Dojo). In other words, it is bodily courtesy.

How is it useful?

It allows the creation of an atmosphere favourable to the practice, which also differentiates its from a club. It needs to be present before learning the technique. Without it, the learning process could be slow, compromised and limited.

There is no link to submissiveness; it is about self-control, which allows to develop self-respect and respect of others through ritual.

How does one make use of it?

Through basic rules to follow, nothing extraordinary, only a few exercises that favour re-centering. Here are some examples:

  • General attitude
  • The salute
  • Hygiene
  • Courtesy
  • Punctuality
  • Assiduity
  • Occupation of space...

The transmission of these rules is naturally passed on when the instructor and the students themselves respect them. The rest is a question of observation and open mindedness...

What will be the benefits of the discipline?

With a regular practice!

  • Pleasure, satisfaction, a feeling of cleanness and good exchanges
  • Good health and a good physical condition
  • With time, flexibility
  • Calmness, lucidity, a good sense of observation and analysis
  • Gestural coordination and appropriate space occupation
  • Stability and balance (mental and psychological)
  • Mental strength and a spirit of initiative
  • The freedom to choose!

Who can practice Aikido?

Taking into account all that has been said, Aikido can correspond to, and be practiced by all, regardless of sex or age. Its founder practiced until he deceased, at the age of 86.

Counter indications

None in particular, however, for safety reasons, a medical certificate will be asked at registration.