Aikido is a relatively new self-defense art, founded in Japan by Professor Morihei Uyeshiba (1883-1969, pictured at left). In his youth, he applied himself to many Japanese martial arts, called budo. He mastered Jiu Jitsu, the use of spear, the staff, and enjoyed a reputation as unbeatable with the sword. Aikido was born as a way to divert harm to one's self while not inflicting permanent injury on an aggressor. As Aikido developed it became clear that it was not only an effective means of self-defense, but also a way to understand life through the study of the energy flow within the Universe.

Aikido is not merely an art of self-defense; into its techniques are woven elements of philosophy, psychology, and dynamics. In studying and practicing Aikido one trains their mind, improves their health, and develops self-confidence. Through the physical practice of the self-defense techniques, the student of Aikido comes to appreciate and understand the mental and/or spiritual aspect of Aikido. During training, partners work together in harmony, learning how to lead another person's movement, how to pin or throw an opponent through non-aggressive techniques, and how to yield. This is why Aikido has sometimes been called, "The art of non-resistance" or the "Non-fighting martial art."