Aikido is a Japanese martial art founded in the 20th century. It is based on traditional open hand and weapons arts, and involves grabs, strikes, joint locks, throws, rolling and falling. Its premise is non-resistance. Instead of competing with superior force, one blends with it and leads it to a harmonious reconciliation. This requires training of body and mind.

The Meaning of the Word Aikido

The word Aikido in Japanese is made up of three characters or kanji. The first is "Ai", which means "meet, come together, harmonize". The second is "Ki", which means "mind, soul, spirit". In the larger context, "ki" refers to the spirit of the universe and not just the spirit of human beings. The third character is "Do", which means "the way", to signify that the study of Aikido involves physical practice melded with philosophical examination over a long term. These three Japanese kanji, "Ai-Ki-Do", mean the way of harmonizing with the universe.

Aikido Movements and Techniques

Aikido techniques are based on movement, timing and balance. We use the continuous flow of a circle, the angles of a triangle, and the stability of a square to create technique that is not dependent on physical superiority. Through partnered practice and the study of Aikido principles, we develop strength and flexibility.

About our Dojo

The Bond Street Dojo was founded in 1973 by Terry Dobson and Ken Nisson. The current structure was further developed under the leadership of Chris Jordan and Paul Kang. We prize our rich history as a strong foundation for our growth and evolution. The Bond Street Dojo is affiliated with the Aikido Schools of Ueshiba (ASU), which operates under the guidance of Mitsugi Saotome Sensei and Hiroshi Ikeda Sensei.

Morihei Ueshiba O-Sensei

Aikido was founded by Morihei Ueshiba (1883 - 1969). As a youth, Ueshiba Sensei, or O-Sensei (Great Teacher) as he is referred to, applied himself to many arduous years of training in the Japanese martial arts. He mastered various arts, including Jiu-jitsu, and the use of the spear, the staff and the sword.

O Sensei had a deep spiritual life that influenced Aikido. Although he became very accomplished in the martial arts, he came to believe that winning at someone else's expense was not a real victory. He concluded that true martial art skill is not the ability to defeat others, but to defeat the discord within oneself.

Practice

Mitsugi Saotome Sensei, a long-time direct student of O Sensei, has expressed his belief that the purpose of Aikido is to help people live better lives, to make their spirits blossom and become strong, and so to improve the world. We accomplish this through regular training. An open and humble attitude, seriousness, and diligence all help one to learn and progress.

Hakama

The skirt-like trousers are called a hakama. It is the traditional garb of Japanese students of martial arts. Its seven pleats represent the seven virtues of budo: jin (benevolence), gi (honor or justice), rei (courtesy or etiquette), chi (wisdom or intelligence), shin (sincerity), chu (loyalty), koh (piety).

Ranking

Aikido uses the kyu and dan system of ranks common in Japanese martial arts. We hold kyu tests three times a year. After proceeding through the six kyu ranks, the student may test for shodan (first degree black belt). Our dan rankings are through Hombu Dojo, the Aikido world headquarters, and are recognized internationally.

Seminars

Because of the non-competitive nature of Aikido, we have no tournaments. Instead, the Bond Street Dojo offers seminars with visiting instructors several times a year. Seminars build one's understanding of Aikido by exploring different aspects of the art in depth. Visitors are welcome.