Aikido Techniques (Beginner & Advanced)

This page provides information on a wide variety of Aikido techniques (i.e. elbow control, throws, etc.). Aikido is a Japanese martial arts with hundreds of different techniques and combinations. Nevertheless, we have tried to list a number of the most common basic techniques and/or well-known techniques used in Aikido and provide you with instructional videos for these techniques. However, be aware that the names for some techniques can vary by school. You will also find many of these techniques used in Aikido katas. For basic Jo techniques, please visit the Aikido Jo Suburi section.

However, please be aware that techniques can vary slightly between Aikido styles. For example, Aikikai techniques can be “lighter” on the feet compared to Yoshinkan (which focuses on feet from being firmly planted on the ground).

The information on these pages and videos are meant to reinforce and supplement the instruction given at your Aikido classes. To properly understand these techniques, you need to learn them from an Aikido instructor who can provide you with an in-depth explanation of the technique, help correct your mistakes, answer your questions and detail how the technique should be utilized.

All martial arts techniques should only be practiced under the supervision of a trained martial arts instructor in order to prevent injuries and to ensure the proper technique is utilized. In addition, all martial arts techniques should be used safely and responsibly.

Basic Aikido Techniques

Other Important Basic Aikido Exercises – According to Traditional Aikido of Sonoma, “O’Sensei once said that a student could learn all the basics of aikido if he practiced just three techniques: tai-no-henko, morotedori-kokyuho, and suwariwaza-kokyuho”.

Nage Waza – Aikido Throws

Tekubi Waza – Aikido Wrist Techniques

Hiji Waza – Aikido Elbow Techniques

Uki Waza – Aikido Floating Techniques

Aikido Deflections & Parries

Atemi Waza – Aikido Striking Techniques

Aikido Choking Techniques

Aikido Defenses Against Chokes

Aikido Ushiro Waza – Defenses Against Rear Attacks

Defenses Against Punches or Knife Hand Strikes

Defenses Against Kicks

Defenses Against Grabs

Weapon Defenses

Aikido Bokken Techniques

Aikido Ukemi – Aikido Falling Techniques

Aikido Warm-Up Exercises

Miscellaneous Aikido Techniques

Aikido Techniques – Kokyu Nage

Aikido Techniques

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons via its Creative Commons license

References

  1. London Aikido Dojo, http://www.londonaikido.com
  2. Aikikai Foundation, http://www.aikikai.or.jp/eng/
  3. Traditional Aikido of Sonoma, Three Techniques That Have Everything, http://www.traditional-aikido.com/Technique/three_techniques.htm