1. The Mind Body Experience of Aikido
Aikido is a martial arts sport that relies totally on defensive body movements. No offensive moves are allowed in the 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 produce fluid movements meant to align one with the universe and to teach a practical form of self-defense when needed. Usually, no competitive activities are associated with Aikido. However, Aikido students who want to compete in mixed martial arts contests usually incorporate other martial arts techniques into their training so that they can be more aggressive.
2. The Focus on Personal Growth
Aikido stresses internal progress, not comparative progression. Your internal spiritual growth is as important as your ability to make all the moves properly. The ability to overcome personal demons and bad habits is one of the hallmarks of Aikido progression an earning belts. You will demonstrate an ability to be still in addition to defending your physical body to get a new belt. Aikido offers five levels of white belt before you are offered the opportunity to apply for a black belt.
3. Striking in Aikido
In Aikido, strikes or feints are called atemi. These serious strikes are usually aimed at vital points of the attacker. They can cause serious and permanent damage. In training, the feints are often used to distract the opponent who fears the fatal blows. Especially when aimed at the face, an opponent will move to protect himself from an atemi. While serving to distract the opponent, it also causes him to lose his concentration and make a mistake or leave an opening for a more conclusive throw.
4. Throw the Opponent Off Balance
A feint in Aikido is intended to throw the target off her game and often causes the opponent to become imbalanced and easy prey. While she is trying to avoid the blow she thinks is coming, she often jerks her head and loses her balance.
5. Prepare With Cross Training
Cross training is recommended for Aikido students, especially activities that increase flexibility and muscle control. They include practices such as yoga and Pilates, which also incorporates mind/body elements; other techniques like relaxation and core toning are also helpful. Weightlifting is not a sport that is useful to Aikido practitioners, though toning with light weights can help to build the kind of strength needed in the controlled movements of Aikido.
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