In the first half of the 20th century, O'Sensei – Grand Master – Morihei Ueshiba developed a system that leads from bodywork and defense techniques to spiritual development. Treating Aikido as just another martial art would be a gross mistake and an oversimplification. It intertwines spiritual, ethical, and physical dimensions. The name itself suggests this. Aikido is derived from the Japanese words Ai, Ki, and Do. They signify the harmony of body, mind, and spirit, making one a better, more sensitive, and more peaceful being.

Morihei Ueshiba viewed his system as a constant process of self-improvement. He rejected competition and rejected the desire to harm an attacker. Drawing primarily from Ju-Jitsu and fencing, the master created a martial art that doesn't shy away from confrontation but considers the consequences of the techniques performed. Its sole goal is to disable the attacker. This profoundly humanistic message resonated with the world and contributed to the popularization of Aikido.

The visual aspect of Aikido is equally appealing. Techniques often resemble dance. Practitioners, dressed in Hakama—wide samurai trousers—perform throws, locks, falls, and dodges. Their movements are fluid and sometimes majestic. Hand-to-hand combat is sometimes supplemented by combat with a jo staff, or a wooden replica of the Japanese Bokken sword, and a tanto knife. Aikido is characterized by the use of circular movements, which allow one to neutralize an attacker's energy and use their force against them. Defense and its effectiveness are therefore not entirely dependent on physical condition, strength, age, or gender. The close connection between body, mind, and spirit in Aikido allows one to develop authentic self-confidence, which is expressed in body and behavior. The training room—the Dojo—becomes a place where, by perfecting techniques, we also refine our character.

Aikido practitioners learn self-control, eliminating stress, tension, and anxiety. Their movements become soft and gentle, and their minds become calm. Training allows them to function better in difficult situations.