Aikido of the San Juans
Aikido is the martial art of harmony.
Photos credit Chelsea LeComte
What is Aikido?
Aikido is a non-competitive martial art that uses spiral movements to blend with and re-direct energy in a way that neither partner is hurt. We train in hundreds of hand techniques including holds, punches, joint locks, rolls and throws, and also train regularly with bokken (wooden sword) and jo (wooden staff).
Aikido promotes peaceful conflict resolution, with principles and philosophy that are used in countless applications on and off the mat, in physical and mental situations.
Aikido begins with connecting with one's training partner, and taking care of one another throughout execution of techniques. Correct posture, angle and body position are essential. Physical strength is not used, so everyone can practice aikido effectively.
There are no contests in the Art of Peace. A true warrior is invincible because he or she contests with nothing. "Defeat" means to defeat the mind of contention that we harbor within.