Japanese Martial Art in Berlin

By MAX SEINSCH, Aikidō-Teacher and Japanologist

Aikidō is a Japanese martial art that does not rely on direct confrontation. Rather, it is intended by exact dodging and blending with an attacker's movement to neutralize his attack, to destabilize him and to direct his own energy and strength against him. Because the attacker is ideally not injured, Aikidō is sometimes called "non-violent self-defense". 

In addition to the physiological benefits of its dynamic training Aikidō claims to promote both physical and mental endurance, flexibility and empathy. The required self-discipline and self-confidence arising therefrom lead to outer and inner balance, mutual respect and a sensitivity for other people's feelings much needed for peaceful co-existence. 

Thus Aikidō pursues the goal to develop and to maintain a healthy mind in a healthy body, which is why you do not talk of "martial sports", but of "martial arts".

(Author: Max Seinsch)