What is Aikido?

Aikido is a traditional Japanese martial art in which we try to disturb the balance of the opponent and to flow together with the force of the attack. When we become one with the attacker, we can guide their body as if it were our own.

To make this possible, we must be able to judge the situation calmly and have good control of our own body and mind. That is why aikido pays a lot of attention to posture and breathing. Step by step, a relaxed suppleness is also built up.

Many movements in aikido come from Japanese swordsmanship. To master these movements, our dojo in Ghent regularly trains with wooden swords (BOKUTO). Other weapons, such as the staff (JO) and the knife (TANTO), are also part of the training.

A unique martial art

Aikido was created by O'Sensei Ueshiba Morihei and is unique among the traditional Japanese martial arts. Aikido is based on the way of least resistance and embodies the spirit of harmony and Eastern philosophy.

Harmony is the only principle in aikido. True strength does not lie in resistance, but in flowing together with the force of the opponent. By flowing with this current, endless techniques can be created, each adapted to the situation.

An open door for everyone

Because it does not rely on muscle strength, almost anyone can practise aikido: men and women, young and old... In aikido, beginners train together with advanced students. During training in Ghent, we pay a lot of attention to developing good posture.