Benefits And Joys Of Aikido Training

Living in an increasingly health conscious culture today, many people look for ways to keep fit, stay healthy, look younger, and enjoy life. Choices abound, making selecting a workable solution potentially bewildering. However, look no further than joining a reputable aikido class, as this Japanese martial art form has found avid practitioners the world over. Its benefits are too numerous to ignore. Here are some of the major ones.

The philosophy, meaning and practice behind the martial art originated with Morihei Ueshiba in Japan in the 1920s. Though various styles of aikido are practiced all over the world today, the fundamental aim remains the same: to create an art form that would allow students to defend the self in a way that also prevents an attacker from being injured. This peculiar aim is in line with the meaning of the discipline, which can be translated as the Way of the harmonious spirit.

Since it's suitable for all age groups, older people practicing it experience less aches and pains in the joints and muscles. Students find the workouts beneficial for the heart rate, and improving overall muscle tone. This leads to a better digestive system, which helps to minimize or eliminate the chances of becoming overweight. It also improves sleep, and is responsible for a younger-looking appearance.

Folks that take up the discipline develop increasingly greater self-confidence. The enhanced mental alertness it brings helps to cultivate a fearless attitude towards life's challenges, while lessening stress and anxiety. It also builds tolerance, calmness, and helps to release the imagination for creative endeavors.

Besides building a fitter and healthier body, practitioners develop a studier posture and improved muscle coordination. Strength spreads through the physique, making the person feel more stable, and having increasing control over mobility. The legs, especially, become exceptionally stronger, lending a gracefulness to the posture and movements.

In terms of self-defense strategies and techniques, the underlying idea is for the defender to blend with the movements of an attacker, instead of resisting straight-on. This obviates the need for much physical strength, because the practitioner is taught to flow with - and not against - the assailant's momentum. Using an opponent's momentum rather than brute power, through turning movements the practitioner then completes movements with various joint locks, throws, and pushing moves.

An additional benefit to practitioners is the broadening of friendships and establishing social networks beyond the training class. It's not uncommon for individuals to meet other enthusiasts of the practice from across the world, making cross-cultural exchange of ideas and knowledge possible. Meeting folks from different cultural backgrounds helps in forming character and deepens respect for strangers.

To experience the benefits of aikido demands consistent and dedicated training at least thrice a week for about 90 minutes each lesson. The diverse styles all share the aim of caring for the well-being of an attacker as much as it concerns the bodily and personal integrity of the defender. Join a class today and start to experience the advantages and joys of this popular martial art form.

Source: http://www.artipot.com/articles/1434205/benefits-and-joys-of-aikido-training.htm

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