1. Play Defense
Aikido is a martial art that relies totally on defensive body movements. No offensive moves are part of this sport, which aims to align the chi, or center of the spiritual body, with the physical placement of your hands, feet and torso. The unification of the mind and body in aikido produces fluid movements meant to align you with the universe and to teach a practical form of self-defense when needed. You will find no competitive activities associated with aikido.
2. Keep Your Eye on the Other Guy
Once connected with your own inner strength and position in the world, aikido teaches you to become aware of your surroundings. Your movements will coincide with the attackers. You will learn how to develop a sense about where your opponent is going to move so that you can position yourself to flow with the attack. If the attacker's movements are quick and choppy, your moves will mirror those actions. If he is slow and awkward, you will use that flow to your advantage.
3. Breathe Consciously
To flow with aikido movements, you must be aware of your own body. Your breathing and your control over that breath will allow you to remain calm while taking on any attack. While we typically think of meditation as an act performed in stillness, sitting cross-legged or on a special mat, aikido is sometimes referred to as a moving meditation. People who watch an aikido training session often think they are watching dancers because the moves are so fluid and expressive.
4. Stand Firm
Balance is key to performing aikido movements with ease. The feet are placed shoulder-width apart, with one slightly further back, allowing you to change foot positions when you need to. Move your weight back and forth as you parry each attack. Keep your knees slightly bent at all times to allow both quick and unfettered foot movement. Timing is a very important aspect of aikido movements and you must always be prepared by setting the feet in such a way as to be able to move freely and change direction with as little effort as possible.
5. Move Your Hands for Momentum
The hand and arm movements in aikido are mainly spirals and circles. Choppy cuts and swings like in other martial arts are mostly used to attack. The circular motion allows your arms to move with momentum when pulling your opponent through his attack. Strength is achieved through the continuous movement, while the hands remain open to grab and hold.
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