Aikido is the Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba (often referred to by the title ‘O Sensei‘ or ‘Great Teacher‘). On a purely physical level it is an art involving some throws and joint locks that are derived from Jujitsu and some throws and other techniques derived from Kenjutsu.

Aikido focuses not on punching or kicking opponents, but rather on using their own energy to gain control of them or to throw them away from you. It is not a static art, but places great emphasis on motion and the dynamics of movement and you can try an Aikido Class here in Bristol twice a week at The Exercise Club.

The principle of Aikido is of conservation of energy and controlling an opponent through up ending their body’s axis and making them revolve around yours. By achieving this, dynamic movement is created as the opponent is pinned to the ground or thrown accordingly.