Aikido - The Way of Harmony of the Spirit
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Aikido Training
There have always been visionaries of remarkable insight, but O Sensei taught that true awareness is not grasped by intellect alone. "This is not mere theory," he said. "You must practice it."
The final aim of budo is PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION, the creation of integrated human beings. Yet philosophical discussion is rare in the dojo, or training hall. The focus is highly practical: constant repetition to master the fundamentals of movement, timing and breathing.
Students train themselves to capture the opponent's action and redirect it with techniques of martial efficiency and power. At the same time, they become aware of the tendency to overreact to opposition, and learn to remain centered under all conditions.
Most practice is done with a partner; each works at his or her own level of ability, alternating as uke (the attacker), and nage (the one who receives the attack). Both roles are stressed; each contributes skills that enhance overall sensitivity and control.
