Aikido is a non-violent martial art that enables a practicioner
to deflect and re-direct an attackers force either throwing them
or taking-down and neutralizing them.
The practice of aikido occurs not only on a physical plane
but also should be carried over into our daily lives and can
be used to help us see our way through difficult situations.
The physical benefits of regular training are many-fold.
You not only learn good self-defense techniques and strategies,
but as you become proficient at the many techniques of aikido,
you will notice that even the simplest tasks, like walking, become
more graceful. With regular training your power, agility, speed,
coordination and flexibility can increase greatly.
Other benefits of regular aikido training include greater
self-confidence, increased awareness of surroundings, greater
tolerance for acceptance of others' opinions, and a greater sense
of self-worth as you see yourself progress. Of course these are
but a few of the things that many people experience, but everyone
who comes to the dojo does not come for the same reason. Some
people come for the self-defense aspects, some come for the self-development
aspects, others come to "round-out" their previous
martial art experiences, and still others may just want to "get
in shape". No matter what draws a person to aikido, we at
the Asheville Aikikai try to make practicing the art as pleasant
as possible for all.
Please refer to the Hombu Dojo website
for more information regarding Aikido http://www.aikikai.or.jp/Eng/index.htm
