Aikido is a Japanese martial art created by Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969). Ueshiba created aikido by combining his experience in martial arts with his life philosophy and religious beliefs. Many practitioners translate Aikido as "the Way of unifying (with) life energy" or "the Way of harmonious spirit". The word aikido is actually a combination of three separate Japanese characters: ai=joining or unifying, ki=spirit or energy, and do=path or way. The goal of aikido is to redirect an attack, usually by using a series of throws and joint locks. Ideally, an experienced aikidoist will be able to protect both himself and his attacker from harm. There are no offensive techniques in aikido, which makes it unique in the world of martial arts. Practicing aikido requires endurance but little physical strength. It focuses on manipulating an attacker's momentum (as opposed to dominating an attacker with brute strength). Since physical strength is not a prerequisite to practicing this martial art, aikido practitioners are able to train and improve well into old age (Source: Wikipedia).
Above: Morihei Ueshiba against an attacker
Above: Morihei Ueshiba against an attacker