The Principles of Aikido
Everyone is different and they bring their own capabilities,experiences and expectations to Aikido and these should all be embraced, but there are some underlying principles that should always be followed.
- Movement: Controlled smooth movement when performing technique
- Non-Aggression: Keeping control over your emotions and physical dynamics when performing technique
- Non-Resistance: Not reacting to your opponents strength, and using it to your advantage
- Control:
- of Self
- Of yourself and your opponent
- Assertiveness and decisiveness (over aggression and uncertainty)
- Moving from the centre
- Moving beyond strength
- Continued motion
- Co-ordination of body motion
- Controlled breathing
- No Mind (Mushin)
- Brave Heart (Fudoshin)
- of Situation
- Tactical awareness
- The interplay of Distance and Timing
- Projection of energy
- Body positioning
- Mind positioning (Zanshin)
- First principles of movement
- Identifying opportunities to defuse, de-escalate or withdraw before application of Aikido and when each of the above is appropriate
- of Aggressor
- Application of technique
- Occupation of space
- Hierarchy of Preservation
- Redirection of energy
- Adaptability
- Continuity of motion (technique is never finished)
- Use of weapons
- Distance / Maai: Having the freedom of movement to perform technique correctly, without inhibiting movement
- Balance Breaking / Kusuhi: Displacing your opponent's posture, whilst keeping your own
- Co-ordination: Moving hands, feet, hips and centre of gravity as one
- Centralization: Initiating movement from your centre, leading with your hips
- Awareness / Zanshin: Being aware of your opponent, their abilities, surroundings and options
- Synchronization / Awase: Blending with your opponent, their intention and the attack
For further reading I would recommend the The Aikido FAQ on Prinicples, as this is far more indepth and will give you a greater understanding of the principles applied in Aikido