Aikido Yoshokai

What is Aikido?

Aikido, the way of harmony, grew out of the combat disciplines of the Japanese Samurai. Founded in 1925 by Morihei Ueshiba, Aikido combines rigorous physical training and mental discipline.

Aikido teaches one to unify both mind and body so that one's movements become spontaneous. It is an effective means of self-defense as well as an excellent way to improve physical fitness and relationships with others.

It is not a "fighting" martial art but rather a path for personal growth. Although it does not involve sparring or competition, Aikido's basis in the fighting techniques of the Samurai is apparent in its powerful throws, pins, and weapon techniques.

What is Aikido Yoshokai?

Aikido Yoshokai, a form of Japanese Budo, is a traditional style that emphasizes basic form and the relationship between shite and uke, two partners working together to make one fluid movement. Instead of resisting a technique, partners strive to learn techniques by working together in a spirit of harmony.

Takashi Kushida-sensei

Kushida Sensei trained for many years under Shioda Goza, the founder of Yoshinkai Aikido, as one of his first live-in students after the second world war.

Akira Kushida-sensei

Akira Kushida-sensei is the head instructor of Aikido Yoshokai Association of North America and affiliated dojos, including the Umich Aikido club. Akira Kushida-sensei's classes emphasize the precision and fluidness of Aikido techniques, combined with various energetic exercises. There are deep Budo lessons that help students appreciate and have an idea of what Aikido is.

AYANA

Aikido Yoshokai Association of North America (AYANA) is the parent organization of which the Umich Aikido club is a member. AYANA is a non-profit educational corporation dedicated to the teaching of Aikido Yoshokai. The head of AYANA is Takashi Kushida-sensei, an 8th-degree black belt. Kushida-sensei is assisted by his son, Akira Kushida-sensei, a 7th-degree black belt. Akira Kushida-sensei teaches at the Genyokan Dojo in Ann Arbor. Students from Umich Aikido club regularly attended classes at the Genyokan Dojo.