Aikido is the Martial Art for mind, body, and spirit. Developed in Japan by master Morihei Ueshiba, aikido is derived from ancient and enduring traditions of aikijujitsu, swordsmanship, spearfighting techniques, and a philosophy of universal harmony and peace. Aikido is not intended to train individuals for fighting. Students are taught to seek resolution to conflict through nonresistance or defensive action rather than aggression. When confronted with threatening situations, students can draw on powerful techniques consisting of locks, throws and controls which allow them to use the nature and force of an assailant's attack to subdue him.
Students also study Japanese sword and staff techniques as instruments of training.