A1. Yes, Aikido has various styles and organizations, each with its own techniques and philosophies. This is because Aikido has developed over time under different masters and groups.

Our dojo belongs to the Aikikai, the largest governing body that directly inherits the teachings of Aikido’s founder, Morihei Ueshiba. The Aikikai promotes Aikido worldwide, with affiliated dojos and branches in approximately 140 countries and regions. In Japan alone, there are about 2,400 dojos and organizations affiliated with the Aikikai, fostering mutual exchange and technical improvement.

A2. Aikido is not a competitive sport like modern martial arts. Unlike sports that focus on winning or comparing skill levels, Aikido emphasizes personal growth—how much you have improved compared to your past self.

The essence of Aikido lies in self-reflection. Through continuous practice, you aim to harmonize your mind and body and improve your quality of life. Aikido is not simply a sport or self-defense system; it is a “way” to develop the principles and skills necessary for a better life. Rather than seeking temporary victory over others, Aikido encourages self-development and inner balance.

A3. While Aikido is sometimes described as practicing “kata” (set forms), it is not just about memorizing fixed techniques.

Although repetitive practice of fundamental techniques is important, actual training involves adapting your movements based on your partner’s actions and energy. No two situations are exactly alike, so flexibility and responsiveness are essential.

Therefore, rather than memorizing techniques, Aikido emphasizes understanding fundamental principles such as distancing, the direction of energy, maintaining your center, and breathing. Once these principles become ingrained, you can move freely without being bound by rigid forms.

In other words, Aikido is a martial art where you learn to move freely through practicing forms.

A4. At our dojo, children can start practicing from elementary school age. We currently have only a few child members, but we provide individualized instruction. Adults can start Aikido at any age.

A5. Aikido includes a wide range of techniques that control an opponent without directly resisting their power. Techniques generally fall into categories such as “throwing techniques,” “pinning techniques,” and “joint locks,” each with basic forms.

Examples of common throws include “irimi-nage” (entering throw), “kote-gaeshi” (wrist twist), and “shihō-nage” (four-direction throw). Pinning techniques include a series of techniques known as “ikkyo” to “yonkyo” (first to fourth controls).

Through repeated practice of these basics, you naturally learn how to use your body, maintain proper distancing, and flow with your partner’s energy.

A6. For regular practice, you will need an Aikido uniform similar to a judo uniform. Dan-ranked practitioners (black belts) wear “hakama” (pleated trousers). Training sometimes also involves using wooden swords or staffs.

A7. Aikido contains many elements that can be useful for self-defense, but its approach differs somewhat from typical self-defense systems. Joint locks and throws learned in Aikido can be applied in real situations, but they are not intended for immediate use as practical self-defense.

Instead, Aikido emphasizes cultivating the ability to calmly observe your opponent and move your body naturally. Through such mental and physical training, you naturally develop the ability to sense danger and respond calmly in daily life. In that sense, Aikido is highly beneficial for self-defense.

A8. Beginners start with basic postures, footwork, and ukemi (safe falling and rolling techniques). Special emphasis is placed on ukemi to prevent injury when being thrown. After that, students gradually learn the fundamental techniques. Until beginners become accustomed to the movements, dan-ranked practitioners provide one-on-one instruction.

A9. A typical Aikido class consists of three main parts: warm-ups, basic movements, and technique practice.

First, we do full-body warm-ups to prepare and prevent injuries. Then we practice fundamentals such as ukemi (falling and rolling), irimi (entering movements), and tenkan (turning movements).

After that, the instructor demonstrates techniques and explains their application. Students then pair up to practice these techniques repeatedly. This helps develop natural movement and proper body usage.

The content and difficulty of the class are adjusted to suit each participant’s experience and physical condition, so beginners can join safely.

A10. Beginners and those with lower physical fitness focus on basic movements and ukemi, learning techniques gradually. Experienced students and dan holders receive more advanced instruction, including finer details of techniques.

Pairings during class are also adjusted, with dan holders often assisting beginners, and care is taken so that adults and children can practice safely together. As a result, people of all ages and skill levels can enjoy practicing at their own pace.

A11. Aikido uses a ranking system of “kyu” (grades) and “dan” (black belts) to indicate skill level. Beginners start at 5th kyu and progress up to 1st kyu through technical improvement, practice hours, and testing. After achieving 1st kyu, they can advance to dan ranks (black belt).

Higher dan ranks require deeper technical understanding and teaching ability. The dan system starts at 1st dan and goes up to 9th dan (though higher dan ranks are rare). It typically takes 3 to 5 years for a beginner to reach 1st dan, depending on practice frequency.

A12. Yes, Aikido is suitable even if you lack physical strength. Aikido does not rely heavily on strength but focuses on flexibility, balance, timing, breathing, and mental focus. Instruction is given so you can progress at your own pace. With consistent practice, your fitness and technical ability will improve. It also benefits overall health and mental stability.

A13. The more frequently you practice, the faster you will improve. However, beginners usually start with one or two sessions per week. If you have concerns about your fitness or a busy schedule, it is important to practice at a pace that suits you.

A14. In Aikido, body mechanics and balance are more important than extreme flexibility. However, greater flexibility can help with mastering techniques smoothly and preventing injury. Flexibility will naturally improve through training, so it is recommended to incorporate stretching at your own pace.

A15. Yes, Aikido contributes not only to physical development but also to mental training. Through practice, you can cultivate a stable mind, improve concentration, and experience personal growth, making it highly beneficial for mental well-being.

A16. Aikido and Zen share many principles, such as unifying body and mind, breathing techniques, and the pursuit of harmony. Both emphasize introspection and spiritual development.

Aikido is sometimes referred to as “moving Zen,” as both aim for similar states of awareness through different methods. Despite differences in approach, both cultivate a meditative mindset and self-awareness.