What Is Aikido

Origins of Aikido

Aikido is a Japanese martial art founded by Morihei Ueshiba in the early twentieth century. Drawing from traditional samurai arts — particularly jujutsu and kenjutsu — Ueshiba developed a system that emphasized blending with an attack rather than opposing it. Rather than meeting force with force, the Aikidoist uses balance, timing, and whole-body movement to redirect an attacker's energy while maintaining calm control. Ueshiba called this the "Way of Harmony" — a path that cultivates not just physical skill, but a deeper awareness of oneself and one's relationship to others.

The Ki Society and Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido

After Ueshiba's death in 1969, his senior student Koichi Tohei emerged as one of the most influential teachers in the art. Tohei had spent years studying the nature of Ki — the unified power that arises when mind and body act as one — and believed this principle was the true foundation of Aikido's effectiveness. In 1974, he founded the Ki Society and established what became known as Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido, meaning "Aikido with mind and body unified."

While sharing the same technical roots as other Aikido styles, Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido places particular emphasis on four foundational principles of Ki development:

• Keep one point — settle your awareness at your physical center
• Relax completely — release unnecessary tension from mind and body
• Keep weight underside — allow your weight to sink naturally downward
• Extend Ki — project calm, focused intention outward

These principles are not abstract philosophy — they are tested and refined through every technique on the mat. A student quickly discovers that tension makes technique mechanical and weak, while genuine relaxation produces movement that is both stable and fluid.

What Ki Training Develops

Ki training develops qualities that extend well beyond the dojo. Regular practice builds physical coordination, postural awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Students learn to move from their center rather than from muscular effort, leading to technique that works regardless of size or strength differences. Over time, practitioners find that the clarity and composure cultivated in training begins to inform how they approach challenges in everyday life.

At Kansas Ki Society, Ki training is woven into every class — not as a separate exercise, but as the underlying thread that connects all technique. We test principles through partner work, examine them through Ki exercises, and return to them continuously as our understanding deepens.

Who Aikido Is For

Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido is suitable for adults of all ages and fitness levels. Because the art does not depend on strength or speed, it remains accessible and effective across a lifetime of practice. No prior martial arts experience is required. New students are always welcome to observe a class before joining.

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