Aikido and Aikijutsu are two martial arts that are often confused with each other. They share some similarities, but they are two distinct disciplines. In this blog post, we will take a look at the differences between these two martial arts.
What is Aikido?
- Aikido is a Japanese martial art that was developed in the early 20th century by Morihei Ueshiba. Aikido is often translated as “the way of harmonious spirit.” The goal of Aikido is to harmonize with the opponent’s energy and use it to off-balance and ultimately subdue them.
- Aikido practitioners train to be able to control an attacker using throws and joint locks. Aikido does not rely on physical strength for success; instead, Aikido uses the principles of leverage and momentum to achieve its objectives. Aiki, which is the core concept of Aikido, can be roughly translated as “coordinated energy.” Aikido practitioners strive to develop their Aiki through training and meditation.
- When successful, Aikido appears almost effortless; the practitioner uses their opponent’s own energy against them in a way that seems almost natural. Aikido is often described as being as much an art as it is a martial art, and this is evident in its philosophy and techniques.
What is Aikijutsu?
Aikijutsu is a Japanese martial art that focuses on using an opponent’s momentum against them. It can be used for self-defense or for offensive purposes. Aikijutsu practitioners often use a variety of techniques, such as strikes, joint locks, and throws, to take down an opponent. Aikijutsu is often used in conjunction with other martial arts, such as Aikido and Judo. Aikijutsu practitioners must be able to read an opponent’s body language and react quickly in order to be successful. Aikijutsu is an excellent martial art for those who are looking for a practical way to defend themselves.
Difference between Aikido and Aikijutsu
Aikido is a Japanese martial art that was developed in the early 20th century by Morihei Ueshiba. Aikido is based on the principles of Aiki, in which Ai means “joining” or “uniting”, and Ki means “energy” or “spirit”. Aikido is often translated as “the way of harmonious spirit”. Aikido is a non-aggressive martial art that focuses on redirecting the opponent’s energy, rather than meeting it with force. Aikido techniques can be used to counter strikes, throws, and weapons attacks.
Aikijutsu, on the other hand, is an older martial art that was developed in feudal Japan. Aikijutsu focuses on using an attacker’s own momentum against them and employs joint locks and throws to subdue an opponent. Aikijutsu is considered to be more aggressive than Aikido as it is designed to disable an opponent quickly and efficiently.
Conclusion
Though the two martial arts share a common history and use many of the same techniques, they are practiced very differently. Aikido is more about using an opponent’s momentum against them, while Aikijutsu is all about overpowering your opponent. If you are interested in learning more about these two martial arts, or in trying out either one for yourself, be sure to do some research to find a school near you that offers classes.
