Aikido Techniques

The martial art of aikido is a very involved martial art, necessitating significant physical and mental endurance as well as a mastery of its fundamental techniques. The techniques which comprise its core are stance, footwork, attacks and throws.

With aikido footwork, one of the most basic techniques is called an entering movement, which refers to entering the physical space of the opposing individual; their corporal sphere of influence. This entering technique actually embodies the spirit of aikido as it focuses not on lethal force, but in controlling the attacker’s balance. One of the most important elements of this martial art is that it is not designed for brutal force, but more to discontinue an attacker’s opposition while avoiding injuring them.

This initial entering technique is then taken to another level by entering with a single step and turning. This turning motion is crucial for defending the traditional attacks of striking and grabbing. This second move combines the first entering technique with a turn, usually a half turn, in an attempt to take the attacker off balance and diffuse their attack. Another method of footwork is where the nage (defender) steps 45 degrees away from the uke’s attack. This move is usually done towards the uke’s open, vulnerable side.

Aikido techniques also include a variety of attacks, beginning with grabs and holds. Some of the primary techniques include same-side wrist grabs, elbow grabs, collar grabs, shoulder grabs and holds, shoulder grabs and strike to the head and cross-hand grabs. These holds and grabs are then advanced to incorporate combination moves with striking attacks.

Related Information

Combat Aikido
Combat aikido involves controlling an attacker’s movements in order to defeat them.

Aikido Styles
Although the core principle remains the same, there are many different aikido styles.