|
Aikido is not simply a system of combat, but also a means of self-cultivation and improvement. Aikido has no tournaments, competitions, contests, or "sparring." Instead, all Aikido techniques are learned co-operatively at a pace commensurate with the abilities of each trainee. According to the founder, the goal of Aikido is not the defeat of others, but the defeat of the negative characteristics which inhabit one's own mind and inhibit its functioning. At the same time, the potential of Aikido as a means of self-defence should not be ignored. One reason for the prohibition of competition in Aikido is that many Aikido techniques would have to be excluded because of their potential to cause serious injury. By training co-operatively, even potentially lethal techniques can be practised without substantial risk. It must be emphasised that there are no shortcuts to proficiency in Aikido (or in anything else, for that matter). Consequently, attaining proficiency in Aikido is simply a matter of sustained and dedicated training. No one becomes an expert in just a few months or years. |
|
About Aikido |
|
What is Aikido? |
