Aikido
Aikido is a highly evolved, soft-style, Japanese art. Of modern origins, Aikido draws from and refines techniques of Ju-Jitsu, Aiki-Jujitsu, Kenjutsu, Judo and others. An Aikido practitioner (Aikidoka) seeks to redirect attacks and use the oponent's own energy against them with the use of joint locks, imbalance techniques and selected strikes. 

In advanced practice, the Aikidoka's redirection becomes so efficient that an attack can be neutralized with very little effort. To a casual, outside observer, it may seem as if the techniques cannot be real. This ability to redirect an opponent's force with such ease comes from dedicated practice in blending with the movements of training partners and the use of KI (internal energy). When studied with the proper focus, Aikido can be a very effective form of self-defense.

 Sensei Slider studied Nihon Goshin Aikido* from  Jiro Miyagi in Okinawa.  This is the Aikido taught at THE DOJO. Employing many of the same philosophies and teachings as the Aikido taught by Morihei Ueshiba, this style also incorporates additional techniques from other arts. 

As an adjunct to Aikido training, some Judo techniques are taught as a basis for learning to imbalance an opponent.  Judo uses an opponent's weight and energy against him to bring about submission. Joint-locks, hip throws, sweeps, strikes and grappling techniques are used in Judo training.  Because of its central principles, Judo,offers an excellent foundation for Aikido's more subtle and advanced techniques.

Training consists of working with partners to practice the throws and submissions used in this art. Each student will take turns being the Nage (thrower) and the Uke (one being thrown). The relationship between Nage and Uke is a cooperative partnership rather than competitive or adversarial. The Nage must always be mindful of Uke's safety by performing the techniques in a manner that will not cause injury. Uke must know how to fall and roll in a way that will avoid injury. This partnership is necessary to allow training to be effective and uninterrupted.

* Not affiliated with the Nihon Goshin Aikido Association, Shihan Richard A. Bowe, or any of his students.