Aikido is a martial art that teaches the resolution of conflict, be it physical, mental or spiritual, through harmony with opposing forces.

Training includes the principled use of the katana (sword) and jo (staff). Aikido has no tournaments, competitions, contests, or sparring; the concepts of "winner" and "loser" are not needed.

The philosophy of aikido is that true victory is victory over one's self and not simply the defeat of others. However, the potential as a means of self-defense is real. Therefore, aikido is taught and trained in that spirit. By training cooperatively, even potentially lethal techniques are practiced without substantial risk.

There are no shortcuts to proficiency in aikido. Attaining proficiency in aikido is simply a matter of sustained and dedicated training.