Aikido
Aikido is a Japanese martial art that takes several different modern forms. The sport was founded by Ueshiba Morihei (1883–1969) who in the 1920s and 1930s combined techniques from Daito-ryu jujutsu with ancient Japanese philosophical beliefs to create a new martial art form that stressed defense and the use of one's opponent's strength and aggression. In general, aikido is less aggressive than other martial arts and is characterized by grabbing, joint-twisting, balance-breaking, and pinning. The popularity of aikido outside Japan is due largely to the work of Ueshiba's students and the Aiki-kai association he founded. Modern forms of aikido are associated with particular schools and associations, including the Japan Aikido Association (Tomiki Aikido), Yoshin-kan, Ki no Kenkyu-kai (Ki Society), and Yosei-kan. Each school promotes somewhat different techniques and philosophy and they also differ in their support of competitions as opposed to training sessions for personal growth. Because of the emphases on training and the performance of choreographed routines called kata, aikido is popular as a form of exercise with women and the elderly.
Further Reading
Pranin, Stanley. (1991) The Aiki News Encyclopedia of Aikido. Tokyo: Aiki News.
Shishida, Fumiaki, and Tetsuro Nariyama. (1985) Aikido Kyoshitsu (Aikido Course). Tokyo: Taishukan Shoten.
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