Aikido Styles

The main premise of aikido is a universal one, supporting the welfare of both attacker and defender, striving for conflict resolution. However, beyond that universal principle, different aikido styles do exist. One of the better known and first-generation styles is aikikai. This style is referred to as first generation because it is connected to the family of Morihei Ueshiba, the founding father of aikido. The most significant dojo or organization that still practices aikikai is the Aikikai Foundation. Staying true to Ueshiba’s teachings, this foundation maintains an authentic focus on his methods under the present master, Moriteru Ueshiba; Morihei Ueshiba’s grandson.

This martial art then saw the birth of a second generation of styles. These came in to existence through the pupils of Ueshiba. Since they are not direct styles of Ueshiba, they are considered second generation. Since Ueshiba’s time, any other style that has come to be finds its influences in the dojos in which it is taught and practiced.

In addition to these styles, korindo aikido (founded by Minoru Hirai) and nihon goshin aikido (founded by Shodo Morita) are two other forms of martial arts that also call on the techniques and ways of aikido. Although these two styles do infuse similar methods, they were not created by Morihei Ueshiba.

Other, earlier styles that have emerged are yoshinkan aikido, yoseikan aikido, shodokan aikido, and manseikan aikido. Another significant departure from Morihei Ueshiba’s original style was marked over a disagreement about the appropriate function of ki development during training. This disagreement birthed shin shin toitsu aikido.

Related Information

Aikido Moves
Aikido moves are executed in a manner that defends an individual from attack while avoiding lethal injury to the attacker.

Aikido Techniques
Aikido techniques require years of training to master them.