Welcome to Rockford Aikido,

the home of traditional aikido in the Rockford area. We are a member school of the Midwest Aikido Federation, which has roots back to the home of traditional aikido, the Hombu Dojo in Japan.

Aikido, comprised of the three Japanese words ai, ki and do means the way of the spirit of harmony. Considered a grappling style, in which attacks are neutralised with various types of throws and/or joint locks, it is a relatively recent innovation and contribution to the world of martial arts. Most martial arts are studied for self-defense and self-improvement, but Aikido is different in that it teaches defense without causing injury to attackers.

A Japanese martial art, Aikido, formed by Morihei Ueshiba during the 1920s an 30s is a synthesis of his martial studies, philosophy, and religious beliefs.

The primary influence and core discipline Aikido evolved from was Daito-ryu aiki jujutsu.

Additionally, along with empty-handed throwing and joint-locking techniques, Aikido derives much of its technical structure and distinction from the sword. Ueshiba incorporated training movements from the study of the other popular weapons spear, saff and bayonet as well.

Initially, Ueshiba referred to his martial art as "Aiki Budo". It is unclear exactly when he officially began using the name "Aikido", but, historically, it became the official name of the art in the early 1940s.

In his later years, Ueshiba considered Aikido not primarily as a system of combat, but rather as a means of self-cultivation and improvement. with the philosophy to extend love and compassion, especially to those who seek to harm others.