AIKIDO

The Basics

Aikido is a Japanese martial art consisting primarily of grappling and throwing techniques (rather than striking techniques

such as blocking, punching and kicking). While similar to several arts such as judo, jujutsu, and Chin Na, aikido is unique in two respects:

  • a heavy focus on using an opponent's strength and energy against them rather than using one's own brute strength

  • a moral obligation to minimize injury on your 'opponent' rather than just protecting yourself

Because of these aspects, aikido takes a bit longer to get started in, but practitioners of any body type, strength, or age can be successful.

While we could explain more, aikido is better seen and experienced than written about. Additionally, there are plenty of great resources on the internet, including this article on Wikipedia.

O Sensei, Morihei Ueshiba, founder of Aikido Aikido translates literally to "Way of Harmonious Spirit"

Our Style

In general, we are considered a more "vigorous" dojo. Since aikido is a martial art, we train hard, expect to be in good shape, and test the practical aspects of our techniques. This should not scare away beginners: your partner will tailor the level of intensity to suit your skill level and comfort. We just want distinguish our training from a softer or more meditative practice. Be sure to try a class or two (for free) before you decide what is right for you.

In terms of techniques, we explore all variations and possibilities. Techniques are like a vocabulary. Of course, just like you always need the basics of vocabulary (spelling and definitions), you always need to drill the fundamentals of basic technique. However, the larger our vocabulary, the better you can communicate and express ideas. Likewise, the larger your technique repertoire is, the better you will be able to practice true aikido: responding to a situation naturally with no forethought and no hesitation.

We also train a lot with weapons compared to some aikido schools. While we are not looking to become or produce expert swordsmen, weapons training sharpens your focus, introduces different training distances and scenarios, and reinforces your open hand technique.

Our Affiliation

We are proud to be affiliated with the Aikido World Headquarters (a.k.a. Hombu Dojo or Aikikai Foundation) through the US-based Aikido Schools of Ueshiba (ASU) under the expert instruction and leadership of Mitsugi Saotome Shihan. Saotome Shihan was a direct student of the founder and periodically holds seminars in the Milwaukee/Chicago area.

We are also blessed to be under the tutelage of John Stone Sensei (6th Dan) and Robin Cooper Sensei (6th Dan) from Aikido of Madison. Stone Sensei makes regular trips to Milwaukee, and we organize carpools to Madison for seminars and additional training.

Our mudansha (non-blackbelt) ranks are conferred through ASU and our yudansha ranks are conferred by Hombu via ASU. After you pass your first test, you are expected to be a member in good standing with ASU. Annual dues are $45 for mudansha and $75 for yudansha. Nominal testing fees are charge to support processing through ASU and printing of the certificates.