At first glance Aikido is presented as an elegant method of finding a balance mentally and physically, controlled by the practice of ancient martial techniques derived, aimed at neutralizing, using locks, joint locks and throws, one or more attackers disarmed or armed. The synthesis and evolution of ancient techniques changed from classic ju-jitsu, kenjutsu (the art of the sword) and jojutsu (technical staff), Aikido owes its originality and effectiveness to a series of movements based on the principle of spherical rotation .

Unlike other martial arts, the focus on linear movements (forward, backward, diagonally) of the techniques of Aikido is based and developed mainly because of a circular motion whose pivot is the one who defends. In doing so he settles its centre of gravity, luring the opponent's decentralization into its orbit, and can easily take advantage of the energy produced from the aggressive action to counter it.

The method of aikido practice is based primarily on a particular method of attack that occurred to develop the " kata " , which is practiced through movements that follow a powerful and dynamic rhythm. According to this method of attack, it is expected that the partner with whom they practice "receives" the movement with his body ( ukemi ) so that the centrifugal force can act.

The most important thing in this kind of practice is that it comes to create a total assimilation (union) with the partner, rather than throw or immobilize him/her. From the technical point of view, this implies that one should treat with courtesy and attention one’s partner's body, as if they were their own sword or spear (similar to what is the brush for a painter or calligrapher or your instrument for a musician). Thanks to this method of practice, which at first sight differs from the methods of other forms of Budo, you can develop a training base that allows you to refine the principle of ‘a mind which does not compare’ , a concept important in Japanese Budo, and maintain control of the senses.

If simultaneously combined with the practical study of oriental breathing systems, this method of practice becomes a very advanced practice in the flow of ki that harmonizing the movement to the flow of meaning achieved through breathing exercises, becomes what is called Zen in motion .

Aikido is not merely a way to understand "how to make the techniques" but is rather a particular method of practice that can translate into reality the principle that if you move into a state of " Mushin "(no-mind) techniques arise spontaneously, and are transformed forever that once constituted the ideal goal sought by most specialists in martial arts ( bujyutsuka ).

Tada Hiroshi Shihan, 9th Dan Aikikai. Technical Director of the Aikikai d’Italia.