AIKIDO
O-Sensei’s Training Guidelines
The Spirit of Training
These training guidelines, preserved by Aikikai Hombu Dojo and attributed to O-Sensei Morihei Ueshiba, offer timeless advice for Aikido practice. More than technical instruction, they reflect the attitude, awareness, and spirit that should accompany training throughout one’s journey in Aikido.
Aikido training follows structured forms, yet real-life situations are often unpredictable. The aim is to remain calm, balanced, and clear-minded under any circumstance.
A central principle of Aikido training is breathing from the seika tanden—the point located approximately two inches below the navel. By centering oneself in the tanden, practitioners learn to:
• Connect with the flow of ki
• Harmonize with the natural rhythm of the universe
• Maintain balance, composure, and inner calm
O-Sensei rarely imposed rigid rules. Instead, he encouraged students to train sincerely, cultivate awareness, and rely on sound judgment developed through consistent practice.
合 気 道
The Teachings of O-Sensei
These teachings, preserved by Aikikai Hombu Dojo and attributed to O-Sensei Morihei Ueshiba, offer timeless guidance for Aikido training.
Follow Your Teacher’s Instructions
As Aikido is so powerful that a single move can place your opponent’s life in your hands, you must follow your teacher’s instructions carefully and refrain from contending for physical strength in vain.
Train with Awareness in All Directions
Since Aikido enables one to face multiple opponents single-handedly, you must not only look ahead but also imagine yourself confronting opponents from all directions.
Enjoy Your Training
Practice Aikido in a way that allows you to enjoy it.
Pursue Mastery Through Dedicated Practice
Your teacher shows you only a fragment of Aikido; through strenuous training, you must discover how to apply it and master the entire art.
Train Gradually and Sustainably
It is important to begin each training session with light movements and gradually progress to more intense practice, ensuring you do not overwork yourself. By following this method, you can continue training pleasantly, avoid injuries, and progress regardless of age.
Preserve the Spirit of Aikido
Since Aikido aims to cultivate integrity through mental and physical training with secret techniques, you must refrain from displaying its skills openly to outsiders or allowing them to be misused by those with ill intentions.
Among these teachings, O-Sensei especially emphasized: “Train in a vibrant and joyful manner.” This spirit remains one of the enduring foundations of Aikido practice today.