The world can be a scary place at times, especially for women. Women are at increasingly high risk of being violently assaulted or even murdered. Statistics also show that the chances a woman currently 21 years old will be a victim of violent crime in her lifetime are 1 in 4. Using martial arts for women’s self-defense could be lifesaving, and Aikido is especially suited to women because of the unique approach to self-defense that is taught.
Aikido’s Defining Style
Aikido is a type of martial art that is purely defensive. Founded in Japan by Morihei Ueshiba in the 1920s, Aikido is based on principles of harmony and non-conflict resolution. No strength or speed advantage is needed to practice Aikido, and successful participants include individuals of all ages and abilities.
The founder, who is widely known as O’Sensei, says, “Aikido is the spirit of loving protection for all beings.” Aikido’s techniques enable the “victim” to redirect an attackers’ energy against themselves. Control of the situation is transferred to the “victim.”
Using Aikido for self-defense does not require women to be stronger than their attackers. Various throwing and joint locking techniques are taught that can assist women in escaping hazardous situations. Ultimately, the best protection women can have against violent attacks is preparedness, and Aikido is a highly refined martial art that primarily developed into a means of self-defense as well as spiritual training in the century since its inception.
Benefits of Aikido For Women’s Self Defense
Everyone who practices the martial art of Aikido develops improved health and fitness, flexibility, concentration, coordination, and effective communication skills as well as self-efficacy.
Christina Kelly, an editor for Aikido Journal, practices Aikido and enjoys it very much. She points out the nonviolent, compassionate philosophy of Aikido. The techniques of practical physical self-defense are designed to avoid causing the attacker permanent physical harm and to convince the person to desist. Kelly shares that women can gain the following additional benefits from the practice of Aikido:
- Improved body alignment and posture
- An ability to fall without suffering an injury
- Increased physical self-confidence
- Greater situational awareness
- Training in strategic analysis of biomechanics
- A fun exercise that increases heart rate
- Greater core strength
- Better coordination
- Learning a progression system that offers challenges and allows students to achieve goals independently and cooperatively at their own pace
Visit Shin-Gane, St. Louis Aikido Dojo
If you are male or female interested in learning more about Aikido, visit Shin-Gane in St. Louis MO for a free Introductory Aikido Class. To schedule your free class, call 314-799-1998 or contact us today.
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