What is Aikido?
Aikido is a training method based on the principles of budo and at the same time on the principle of non-violence.
The techniques of Aikido are designed to train body and mind at the same time.
Aikido is equally suitable for all people. Aikido is the embodiment of non-discrimination.
Older and younger, taller and shorter, stronger and weaker people train together.
When performing Aikido techniques, strong people do not have an advantage over people who are not so strong.
Aikido is the training of body and mind
Aikido is not for self-defense. Aikido training is a training of the self.
In Aikido, we learn not to react to an attack, but to lead our partner before the attack starts.
Therefore in Aikido, there is no scenario of attack and defense.
Aikido training develops our own mindfulness, awareness, sensitivity, composure and self-confidence.
Aikido training promotes patience and concentration and focuses on the here and now.
Aikido leads to physical flexibility and physical stability at the same time.
It trains the sense of balance and coordination in body movements.
It also promotes the ability to perform movements in a relaxed posture and yet with utmost precision.
The principles of Aikido can be perceived and experienced very concretely through our body.
Through physical experience, we gain a real understanding that is not based on theoretical ideas only.
How to train Aikido?
Aikido is usually practiced with a partner. During training, both training partners alternate between the roles of uke (the person who receives the technique) and tori (the person who performs the technique).
Both training partners support each other in their respective roles as uke and tori.
Beginners and advanced practitioners train together.
Aikido exercises are artificial situations that allow the principles of Aikido to be studied, practiced and experienced.
In the practice situations, both partners strive to move in a relaxed yet precise manner.
The concept of attack and defense is dissolved in Aikido.
There are no competitions in Aikido. That is why there are no winners or losers in aikido.
Exchanges with other dojos are important to us, whether in Switzerland or abroad (e.g. Germany and France). We therefore encourage participation in training weeks and weekends in Switzerland and abroad, where both beginners and advanced students are welcome.
Who is Aikido suitable for?
The effectiveness of Aikido is not based on physical strength.
For this reason, Aikido is equally suitable for young and old and for all people, regardless of their gender.
Trainees should be prepared to deal with themselves, with the prerequisites that each individual person brings to the table to varying degrees (flexibility, talent, ability to concentrate and absorb).
What counts is the personal success, not the success in relation to other people.
Patience with yourself and with your training partners leads to personal success and enjoyment.