Aikido
Aikido is a budo (martial way) systematized by Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969) from the daito aiki system of jujitsu. Fruit of a life of research both physical and spiritual by the Founder, this essentially defensive martial art stands out from others by its characteristic of non-competitiveness. The acronym "Aikido" is composed of 3 characters which signify "harmony", "energy" and "way". The learning of Aikido is based on a search for harmony. Aikido is conducive to both physical and spiritual development and stimulates self-awareness and self-confidence. Aikido teaches to counter an attack by turning it against the aggressor without apparent effort but with a formidable efficiency. Aikido is practiced against one or more partners. The movements are fluid and the techniques use grabbing, projections and controls. Training is intense and improves reflexes and fitness (flexibility and endurance) not requiring the partners to be of the same size or level.