Aikido is a defensive martial art that is based on the principle of blending with an attack as opposed to clashing with it. Aikido is a Japanese art that has its’ roots in Japanese swordsmanship as well as Jujitsu and Judo. The founder of Aikido, Morehei Ueshiba, created an art that reflected the best of all the arts he mastered. Ultimately he created an art that allows students to defend themselves regardless of their size and stature while not permanently harming the attacker. The techniques of Aikido are primarily joint locks and throws as opposed to kicks and punches. It is an accepted fact that Aikido is the most advanced martial art being taught today. The primary philosophy is to defend without injury unless it is absolutely necessary. The fruits of training, however, go far beyond just physical conditioning and self-defense. Aikido is a very philosophical art that encourages students to try and see things in a different light. We teach awareness, self-control, and self-discipline as cornerstones to mental development. Any martial art training is worthless without a trained mind to control it. Everything we teach on the mat translates directly to life. Be it the ability to blend with stress or to handle an aggressive situation. The philosophies remain the same. Ueshiba saw Aikido as a great deal more than just a martial art. Its’ peaceful nature and blending philosophies, he felt, could bring peace to an aggressive world. In the end, we encourage students to explore their limits in all aspects of their lives. What we find is that people rarely are aware of what their true limits are. Ultimately, we challenge you to be the best you can be in all aspects of your life. Aikido will give you the tools you need to succeed!