A Brief History
Aikido, is a strictly Japanese martial art. It embodies the three concepts that comprise it’s name. AI, meaning harmony; KI, meaning the sprit or source of energy; and DO, meaning the ‘way’. Together they signify the way in which one can attain harmony with one’s spirit.
Founded in Japan by Master Morihei Ueshiba, Aikido became a means to attain spiritual enlightenment. The techniques can be dated back for centuries and are thought to be developed from JuJutsu and Samurai schools.
Professor Tomiki was a student of Jigoro Kano at the Kodokan Judo Institute and student to O Sensei. he was the first man to receive Menkyo (equivelant to an 8th Dan) from both.
It was due to his exposure to both styles that he developed his Aikido giving students the chance to apply their techniques in a randori setting. Further information about the Tomiki system of Aikido can be found on the BAA web site.