ABOUT AIKIDO AT CITY AIKIDO
"There are no contests in the Art of Peace.

A true warrior is invincible because he or she contests with nothing.

Defeat means to defeat the mind of contention that we harbor within."

Morihei Ueshiba, Founder of Aikido
Aikido is a martial art that uses mostly techniques of joint locks and throws (or projections). More importantly, it is based on blending one's energy system with that of the attacker's, thus defeating them with the strength of their own intention. Executed properly, Aikido techniques sustain complete control over the attacker so that effective defense becomes possible without inflicting unnecessary harm. The concepts of centering and ki (or energy flow) are central to its principles.
Training in aikido is not about learning "to do something" to your partner. We learn both roles from the start: providing an attack that gives the energy the partner will work with and  doing the falls and rolls needed to receive the technique; receiving an attack and responding to it in a centered and balanced way.
With an emphasis on progressing at one's own pace, a focus on breathing, centering and moving in a relaxed way, and an awareness that every body is different in how it "does" aikido, aikido is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It is not uncommon to see beginners over 40. Some people with disabilities or chronic disorders have been able to integrate aikido into an overall health and fitness regimen, finding both strength and flexibility enhanced via slow, consistent practice.
IT IS ALSO A LOT OF FUN !