Before writing a review, I decided to refer to the reference materials. For those who are only faced with this kind of martial arts and may not exactly fluent in the terminology. So, what is Akido?

Brief reference: "Aikido is a modern Japanese defensive martial art, which means "the way of divine harmony". Created by Morihei Ueshiba between 1925 and 1969, as a synthesis of martial arts and philosophy."

Aikido Aikikai I have been doing for more than fifteen years and every time I go out on the tatami, I ask myself: "What is Aikido?". It would seem that I already know the answer, I know a lot about what I do, but the question, nevertheless, even from a philosophical point of view – never exhausted. And yet, I'll try to answer it.

Let's talk about Japan, the country where Aikido has its historical origin, its roots.

In the land of the rising sun, where strong traditions and the spirit of samurai, where the question of life and death was decided by lightning strike of the sword, and the skill of hand - to-hand combat fighter allowed him to win, so-to survive, death and victory went hand in hand. Since childhood, the samurai were taught not to be afraid of, "life and death are one," had inspired them. It was in this country that martial art appeared, the principles of which are radically different from all existing ones. They are in victory in the fight, to disarm and neutralize the enemy and at the same time to save his life. Aikido is an art of harmony with the surrounding world, and death is a violation of harmony, if it is not a natural process.

 

Aikido practice in St. Petersburg

I do Aikido in St. Petersburg, Aikido school "Ten-Chi" dojo. In the gym during training, we develop combat skills that allow you to react correctly in an extreme situation. We work out techniques that will help to protect themselves, and will not harm the partner during training.

According to my observations, it turned out That Aikido engaged, to a greater extent, self-sufficient and self-confident people who do not seek to prove anything to anyone, enjoying the process of training. Changing roles between themselves, then attacking, then defending, aikidoki comprehend the basic principles of harmony with the outside world, which, perhaps, truly sozhno describe – you need to feel it. Striker, obviously a loser, since the attack, shows its strengths and weaknesses, who uses his opponent. It is worth noting that in training there are no winners and losers, everyone gets a sense of satisfaction and new knowledge and skills. After all, even the teacher, leaving the training, takes with him something new, gains experience. Aikido classes help to strengthen the body, reduce and control weight, increase self-esteem, contribute to the emergence of new friends and acquaintances. Studying etiquette in class leads to mutual understanding and respect. Interest in the subject generates interest in the history and culture of the country, and therefore philosophy.

 

Physical strength is not the main Thing, Aikido can be practiced by the elderly, women and children. A trained person can defeat a physically dominant opponent. Aikido gives not only one-sided knowledge of how physically one person can defeat another. It studies moral and ethical principles, educates people.

Should You do Aikido?

 

How to understand that Aikido is something that is close to you in spirit? In fact, it is extremely difficult, and perhaps to give a detailed accurate answer to the question you will not be able to no one but Yourself. However, I can absolutely say that You will understand it Or not, only if you find yourself on the tatami.

And yet, even if you think that Aikido – Not your direction, I recommend some time to continue classes. The fact is that often seeing some newcomers at first decided that Aikido is still not for them, but at the same time continuing to do, I see how over time their attitude to martial arts changes and they change themselves. Aikido does have an influence on personal growth, affects the nature, physical form. Aikido makes a person different, and according to my observations, basically, these are only positive changes. Do you want a change in your life? Are You satisfied with your body? Do you want to improve and develop further? If you answered Yes to all these questions, perhaps Aikido is really for you. Just start.

To do Aikido in St. Petersburg, you can in the club Aikido Aikikai "Ten-Chi" dojo. Welcome!