In most martial arts, the goal is to overpower an opponent. In aikido, practicioners seek to blend with an attack instead of blocking it or fighting against it. Then, the aikido practitioner (or aikidoka) will redirect that power into a throw, joint lock or pin.

This blending and redirection is accomplished through a system of graceful and impressive circular movements. Aikido requires timing, precision, awareness, balance, and the ability to operate the body as a unit.

Aikido is not a sport, and there are no competitive tournaments. Aikidoka train to better themselves, not to triumph over others. Of the traditional Japanese martial arts, aikido is the newest one. It holds the highest ideals and the most modern outlook.
 

Unlike working out at a gym, aikido practice will challenge your mind as well as your body. The more you train, the better you’ll become, and the more you’ll want to train.

Aikido of New Orleans is a member of the United States Aikido Federation, the largest, oldest, and most prominent organization in American aikido.

A not-for-profit group based in New York City, the United States Aikido Federation (USAF) provides both technical and administrative guidance and support to its member dojos and students. It oversees the practice of aikido and its instruction as established by Aikikai Hombu Dojo, also known as Aikido World Headquarters, in Japan. For member dojos and students in the United States, the USAF develops and maintains standards and ranking requirements consistent with Hombu’s international regulations. It also organizes seminars, conducts aikido demonstrations, encourages activities of member dojos, and publishes information and materials pertaining to the marital art.

Hombu Dojo was established in Tokyo in 1927 by O-Sensei, the founder of aikido. O-Sensei passed away in 1969, leaving his son, Kisshomaru Ueshiba, to become Aikido Doshu (“Aikido Headmaster”) of Aikido World Headquarters. Kisshomaru Ueshiba Doshu was in turn succeeded by his son and O-Sensei’s grandson, Moriteru Ueshiba Doshu in 1999, who to this day continues to spread the art of aikido throughout the world.