Aikido in the Shindo Dojo True Budo cannot be described by word or letters; the gods will not allow you to make such explanation. Ueshiba

Aikido is a Japanese martial art based on the principles of self-defence by evading attacks and redirecting the opponent’s aggressive energy in such a way as that the power of attack is dissolved and reverts to the aggressor. These principles imply a considerable amount of throwing, holding, and leverage techniques.

Aikido was founded by O Sensei Ueshiba Morihei (1883-1969) assimilating different Jujutsu styles (e.g. Daito ryu, Yagu ryu) as well as sword and spear techniques. In the Shindo Dojo Aikido is taught by Olaf Lotze-Leoni, 4. Dan IMAF and is influenced by Takano Sensei 7.Dan Tokyo Aikikai and Edmund Kern 8.Dan IMAF, substantially.

Olaf Lotzte-Leoni with Edmund Kern, 8th Dan

Olaf Lotze-Leoni with Takano Sensei, 7th Dan

Aikido’s strong philosophical and religious background results from O Sensei’s biography and his encounters with Deguchi, a priest of the Omotekyo sect. The word “Aikido” consists of the syllables “Ai” (love/harmony), “Ki” (elementary power, energy of life, cosmic energy) and “Do” (way).

“Ai” may also signify the relationship of the training partners towards each other aiming at technical and human perfection without being hampered by aggressions. “Ki”, expressing human and cosmic power, may refer to the centre of the person, the tanden, where “Ki” is stored. This signifies the right centre of gravity and life. “Do” is the manifestation of the way walked together as well as their task of living with each other in harmony and abandon egoistic thinking.

Aikido is a way (“Do”) aiming at the development of innate power and strength (“Ki”), and it shows itself in strong personalities acting purposefully. This can only be gained through continuous effort.

The real meaning of Aikido lies training itself. Nowadays many different styles of Aikido exist, which differentiate in the Interpretation of the teachings of O Sensei. And yet the underlying thought is the same almost everywhere..

Techniques taught in the Shindo Dojo consist not only of the empty handed (Tajutsu) but also techniques with a short staff (Aikijo) and a sword (Aikiken)..

In regards to Aikido the Shindo Dojo is associated with the International Martial Arts Federation (IMAF) with its headquarter in Tokyo.

Olaf Lotze-Leoni has been training Aikido since over 23 years in Germany as well as in Japan and is well known in the greater Hanover region. He is assisted by his master students Michael Kladny 2.Dan and Gerd Kittel 2.Dan.

Aikido can be learned at all ages. Just try it.