What is Aikido?
Generally known as a non-violent art of self-defense, Aikido was originated by Master Morihei Ueshiba after many years of training in both weapon and free hand arts. It is one of the most modern of all Japanese Budo (way of life through the principles of martial arts). The name Aikido was adopted in 1942 to shift the emphasis from martial art to a way of life, by removing the word Bu which means martial. The word Aikido comes from "Ai", meaning harmony, oneness, agreement; "Ki", meaning nature, spirit, or universal energy; and "Do", meaning road, path, or way of life. Aikido then is a WAY OF LIFE THROUGH HARMONY WITH NATURE. Its outstanding features are its refinement from a physical martial art to an ethical but highly efficient art of self-defense and way of life that people, young and old, can practice and enjoy.
Benefits of Aikido training include:
Promotes Health
Develops stamina and endurance as well as balance – both mental and physical.
Unifies Body, Mind and Spirit
Heightens mental concentration as the body and mind are trained to work together in a focused and efficient way.
Develops Character
Promotes honesty, kindness, self-respect and respect for others. Improves interpersonal relations. Nurtures the growth of self-discipline.
Teaches Self-Defense
Trains the student to use effective self-defense techniques that neutralize an attack without causing serious injury to the attacker.
Provides Alternatives in Conflict Resolution
Aikido, used as a metaphor, illustrates numerous alternatives to the use of force in resolving conflict.
Seidokan Aikido
Seidokan is a system of Aikido which emphasizes the balanced study of the principles and arts in accordance with the founder's teachings. One of the primary objectives of Seidokan is to study the founder's sayings in Japanese, analyze them thoroughly, and relate them to the practice of Aikido techniques. Also at Seidokan, we are dedicated to developing methods to apply the founder's teachings in our modern way of life.
At Seidokan Aikido Dojo, students and instructors grow together. The students learn the basics from the instructors and the instructors gain deeper understanding of Aikido while sharing their knowledge with the students. Through earnest, realistic, and sincere training, we can realize the true meaning of Aikido.
Although Seidokan is independent from Japan, it was recognized by Master Kisshomaru Ueshiba, the late Doshu and Chairman of the Aikikai in Tokyo, Japan (Aikido Hombu Dojo). The Seidokan Aikido World Headquarters Dojo is located at:
The Aikido Institute of America
2615 Colorado Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90041
Phone: (323) 254-3372.
Seidokan founder and former director, Rod T. Kobayashi Shihan, taught at California State University at Fullerton and at California State University at Long Beach and was a member of the Honor Society for International Scholars.
Since Kobayashi Sensei’s death in 1995 the AIA is headed by its former Chief Instructor: Stew Chan Shihan, 7th degree black belt.
Rank
As in other Japanese martial arts, Aikido uses the kyu and dan system of ranking. The Aikidoka will be recommended for examination by his or her instructor upon completion of the required training for each rank. (Time alone is not the only criterion for testing. Ability for rank, attitude, and other intangibles are very important in all martial arts training and promotions.) Children usually begin with the rank of 10th kyu and adults with 6th kyu and advance up to1st kyu. After 3-5 years of diligent training, the Aikidoka will be recommended to take the examination to qualify for Shodan (1st degree black belt) training and thereafter work his/her way up through the Dan (black belt) ranks.
Children (ages 8 - 13) have examinations scheduled every two months. They may qualify to test about every other exam if they practice regularly. For adults (ages 14 and up) testing is 3 times a year: February, June, and October.
Uniforms - Keiko Gi
In Aikido, students may wear either white Karate-gi or Judo-gi. Judo-gi are preferred for they provide better wear, protection and better absorption of perspiration.
As students are promoted to higher levels and start assisting with beginner's classes, they are permitted to wear black or blue Hakama, a baggy trouser worn over the kimono for ease of movement in old Japan. It is still worn as a part of formal attire for Japanese men. Hakama are worn in Seidokan as a symbol of accomplishment and responsibility.
There is no opponent or enemy in true Budo. True Budo is at one with the universe which means being united with the center of the universe. True Budo is a labor of love. It involves giving life to all that exists and not killing or opposing one another. Love is the guardian angel of all things. Nothing exists without it. Aikido is the realization of love.
- Master Morihei Ueshiba