Aikido pins down safe defense skills
Aikido is a martial art form that, translated, means the “way to harmonize with energy.” Aikido is designed to minimize damage in the event of an attack, not only damage to the defender but to the attacker as well.
Aikido is practiced by such people as Steven Seagal, who is a sixth degree black belt, and is now offered by Utah State University for university credit. The class can be found in the Spring 2002 Schedule of Classes under Health, Physical Education and Recreation. The class title is Personal Instruction and Conditioning.
Aikido classes are also offered through the Whittier Community Center at the price of $35 for adults and $25 for students.
Sensei Ronald Sims, Aikido instructor and third degree black belt, said, “Aikido is a powerful and dynamic martial art that is practiced by millions of citizens, not only for it’s defensive skills and fitness benefits, but as a way of internal training and development.”
Aikido teaches students how to defend themselves in a relaxed manner, using their opponents energy against them. A large part of the Aikido training is learning how to fall in a way that reduces damage to the body and then return quickly to the defensive position. This knowledge can be applied in other activities such as gymnastics, aerobics and skiing.
Sims said Aikido is not a competition.
“Each student has a responsibility to teach his or her knowledge to their peers,” Sims said.
Aikido classes also train students to defend themselves against weapons like knives, swords and staffs.
“Aikido is the martial art of conflict resolution,” Sims said. “It is based on the use of energy, not strength, therefore it is not partial to sex.”
Men and women both can benefit from the teachings of Aikido.
The Aikido club does various public demonstrations and attends seminars throughout the year.
For those interested in joining the Aikido club and would like more information, contact Sims at 752-6069.