AIKIDO

The Japanese word for Aikido can be split into three separate words. “Ai” which stands for “Harmony”, “Ki” which can be used for “Energy” or “Strength” and lastly “Do” which translates to “the Way” like a moral method or a way of life. The last word “Do” tells you what the actual goal is and in this way also links to the martial arts. Some Aikido-ka’s feel that Aikido is less of a martial art and more a way of life or a fighting art. Especially because there are no competitions within the sport Aikido, with the exception of one style called the “Tomiki Aikido”. 

The beginning Aikido practitioners usually wear a sturdy white suit or gi, that is pull- and grab resistant. This Gi exists of a wrap jacket and a pair of wide trousers and a belt to keep everything in place. The pants are usually reinforced on the knees to prevent early tear and wear.

The more advanced Aikido-ka’s will usually wear the basic suit with an additional Hakama on top. The hakama is a traditional wide legged trouser which kind of look like a skirt at first glance and is held in place with two sets of bands from both sides.

Besides training de various forms and techniques, Aikido also uses three different training weapons: The Bokken (wooden sword), the Jo (wooden staff of 128cm) and the Tanto (wooden knife).