Aikido is often promoted as a martial art focused on using an opponent’s strength against them. It has gained popularity in Hollywood movies, where its graceful throws and wristlocks are portrayed, often with a hero effortlessly subduing multiple adversaries in rapid succession. Notably, Steven Seagal has featured Aikido prominently in his movies, such as Under Siege. Aikido appeals to individuals who seek self-defense techniques that prioritize subduing opponents without causing them harm, aligning with the value of humane conflict resolution.
However, the key issue with Aikido, and the reason it is not offered at our facility, is that it simply does not prove effective against real, resisting adversaries who intend to inflict harm. This was evident in the early years of the Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC), where Aikido practitioners did not achieve success. In contrast, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu quickly demonstrated its efficacy, with three of the first four championships won by a practitioner weighing only 170lbs. Perhaps somewhat ironic is the fact that the “gentle art” of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu equips individuals with the ability to control larger and aggressive opponents, often without causing harm, unless deemed legally necessary. In the original competitions of UFC, Royce Gracie, a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu proponent, successfully subdued much larger opponents using submission holds and grappling techniques, seldom resorting to striking.
Given these factors and that it is observed that many Aikido schools are typically small, part-time operations offering infrequent classes, often once or twice a week, and rarely having a structured children’s program.
