Aikido is a marshal art that was first developed in Japan. In this art, the tori, or defender, performs aikido techniques against an uke, or attacker. Most students who wish to learn aikido techniques will practice in a dojo. Dojo is the Japanese term that refers to an environment in which students learn a martial art. The most common beginning aikido techniques are performed while the tori and the uki are standing.
There are fewer than 20 different basic aikido techniques. There are, however, a number of variations among these different attacks. For example, many techniques may be practiced from different angles or in different positions. A number of techniques are practiced while both parties are either standing or sitting down.
The standing aikido techniques are called tachiwaza. The most basic of these techniques is ikkyo. This pinning attack is often times the first technique that students of this martial art learn. It is said to be useful against almost any attack and is also said to have part in determining the preferred style of aikido that one practices. Another basic pinning attack that is taught early in an aikido education is the nikyo, which may also be used against almost all attacks and which requires the tori to lock the opponent's wrist.
Sankyo is another technique that requires the tori to lock the wrist of the uke. The tori must then must cause tension to move upwards through the arm of his or her opponent. This technique may be performed while both parties are either standing or sitting.
Another common aikido technique is shomen uchi. This is a technique in which the tori strikes the uke in the forehead. Yokomen uchi, on the other hand, requires the tori to strike the uke on the side of the neck.
Many experts recommend practicing these techniques with low power levels. This allows the student of aikido to perfect important movements without straining his or her body. By applying low power levels, the student of aikido may also engage in the martial arts education without fear of injury.
Once a student has improved execution of the common aikido techniques, it may be advisable for him or her to increase power levels. This allows the student to improve his or her posture and improve the smoothness of the moves. Many experts also believe that the increased fear of injury inspires students to execute the attacks with precision.
Many common aikido lessons will include weapons training. In these lessons, students learn to defend themselves against aikido weapons, such as staffs, swords, and knives. Some lessons also include instruction in how to disarm an opponent of a firearm.