The martial art of Aikido was founded by Morihei Ueshiba (1883~1969) - also known as Kaiso (founder) and O-sensei (great teacher) - based upon his studies of numerous traditional Japanese martial arts and spiritual insights.

 

Aikido may be translated to “the way of unifying spirit/energy” or “the way of harmonious spirit.” Techniques in Aikido aim to blend with an opponent’s aggressive attack with entering and spiral body movements to re-channel the violent energy of the opponent without causing injury. Good posture, balance, angle to the opponent, breaking the opponent’s balance and applying a technique guide the process for blending with an opponent’s attack.
 

Kupuna Aikido uses “Aikido” in our name because our safe falling methods are based on aikido principles. Studies show that the traditional martial arts falling technique reduces injury by tumbling through tumbling, which reduces the impact of a fall. However, KuA recognizes that traditional martial arts falling methods are difficult for senior citizens to master and can still result in injury. KuA teaches a softer falling technique that significantly reduces fall impact. The KuA falling technique focuses on sliding and harmonizing with the fall, relaxing, and controlling movement, getting close to the ground, rotating onto soft tissue, and protecting the head. Our unique safe falling technique eliminates fall impact and is safer and easier for Kupuna to learn.