What is Aikido?

Aikido (eye-kee-doh) is a Japanese martial art founded in the late 1930’s by Morihei Ueshiba (MOHR-ree-hay oo-WAY-shee-bah), who is referred to even by those who do not study Aikido as O’Sensei (oh-sen-say), which means “Great Teacher”.

O’Sensei studied many martial arts in his youth, including sumo wrestling, spear and bayonet arts, arts using a wooden staff, sword arts, and the ancient grappling art of jiu-jitsu. As he grew older, he realized that the purpose of martial arts should not be to harm other people, but to defend oneself while preserving the attacker, bettering one’s self in the process. Thus, O’Sensei combined the martial arts he had studied in aikido, which means “The Way of Harmony”.

The hallmark of Aikido technique is flowing, circular movements that enable the defender to off-balance an attacker, blending with the attacker’s energy in such a way that the attack is neutralized with minimal effort and bodily harm. Aikido technique incorporates throws and immobilizing limb and joint locks, and tumbling skills so that one can receive techniques during practice without bodily harm.

Aikido students develop strength, balance, and flexibility of both body and mind, and in so doing, learn self-discipline, moderation, and compassion for others. Because Aikido techniques do not rely on physical size or strength to be effective, it is ideal for men and women of all fitness levels.

The Aikido Club teaches Suenaka-ha Tetsugaku-ho Aikido, which means “Suenaka (Sensei Roy Suenaka) style, philosophical way”. Equal emphasis is placed on physical and personal betterment. Suenaka Sensei has incorporated all of O’Sensei’s teachings in his style, combined with his extensive experience in real-world self-defense. The result is a martial art that is “street-effective” yet respectful of all living things, conducted in a dynamic, joyful, and welcoming atmosphere, without conflict or machismo.

The Aikido Club is sponsored by Sensei James Huss, English teacher at Southside High School and student of Sensei Suenaka, who himself was a direct student of O'Sensei Ueshiba. For more information, see www.suenakazenzandojo.com, or visit Mr. Huss in Room 115.