Martial Arts Information

Aikido is not normally seen as a practical self defence martial art.

It is very much like a dance. There is almost no competition. However, it would be crazy to write off this form of martial art because it has links to jujitsu, judo among others.

Many military and police force dedicate part of their martial arts diet to learning aikido. There is NEVER a non-useful martial art.

However recently most aikido dojos promote their art as a form of exercise rather than a martial art per se.

This quote is taken from this dojo in Singapore. http://www.aikidoshinjukai.com/eng/home.htm

Aikido is a Japanese modern form of martial art, translated as "The Way of Harmony with Ki". Its effectiveness is the use of smooth, soft, circular movements while maintaining a firm center. It is possible to defend oneself from an opponent of superior size and strength, hence suitable for all ages, including children, ladies and the elderly.

The aim of Aikido training is not perfection of a technique or skill, nor to cause destruction, inflict injury or emerge as the winner. Rather, it is to harmonise or become one with nature, and it is this aspect that is appealing to many. Through Aikido practice, one's character is also developed so that one becomes focused with a strong mind within.

You can learn more about aikido here at wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aikido