Aikido focuses on center to center connection and strives to allow one to defend without the necessity of seriously harming the attacker. Mitsugi Saotome Sensei focus on control and neutralization of an attack through harmonious movement and non-resistance. Since the unarmed techniques of Aikido originally derive from weapons techniques we train with the traditional weapons of sword and staff on an almost daily basis.
People train in Aikido for a number of reasons.
It is a system of self defense and great exercise. In addition it is also a form of moving meditation with a strong spiritual underpinning and even serves as the model for various systems of conflict resolution. The emphasis on movement and redirection of force make Aikido the perfect martial art for those who are not physically large or powerful individuals. Check out some Aikido video clips Aikido training will develop a relaxed and centered manner when facing conflict. It is a martial art which focuses on personal development as much as physical self defense and should prove useful in the every day lives of the students in a multitude of ways.