| abstract | - Aikijujutsu is a jujutsu discipline that focuses on the Japanese principle of “aiki,” in which a practitioner blends with and defeats an opponent by using one’s internal energy (ki or chi), however, all forms of the art originated with Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu. Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu is a Japanese martial art based on traditional Jujutsu, founded (or restored, the issue is controversial) by Takeda Sōkaku. While many techniques are derived from classic Jujutsu it also includes techniques from Sumo wrestling and Kashima Shinden Jikishinkage-ryū, a school of Japanese swordsmanship. Aikido and Hapkido are both derived from this martial art, although the former adopted more pacifistic ideals while the later maintained the combative mindset.
- Aiki-jūjutsu's history can be traced to the 11th century. The art was founded by a descendent of Emperor Seiwa named Minamoto no Yoshimitsu, who developed it through the study of human anatomy. It was passed on to the Takeda clan of Aizu, where it was secretly taught to samurai as a means of weaponless combat up until the fall of the shogunate in the 19th century. In contrast to more aggressive fighting arts, Aiki-jūjutsu stresses non-resistance. Aiki practitioners turn an opponent's strength and motion against them, and use vulnerable points such as the neck, knees, and wrists as leverage. The goal is to harmonize your movements with an opponent's ki, or spirit. Redirecting attacks, counters, throws, and sweeps are all tools of the Aiki-jūjutsu trade. A popular derivative of Aiki-jūjutsu is aikido, which was founded in the 1920s by renowned martial arts master Morihei Uyeshiba. After many years of training, Uyeshiba decided that the ultimate martial art would be one where neither the defender nor attacker would be hurt. This led to the development of aikido, which translates as "the way of spiritual harmony." This art uses sweeping circular motions that move in conjunction with an opponent. According to Uyeshiba, "Aikido is non-resistance. As it is non-resistant, it is always victorious."
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