Translation by Gemini
Aikido Hatenkai Core Concept: Regarding the 'State of Mastery' (Shōaku no Kyōchi)¹ - Zenith of Skill and Composure
By Fujisaki Tenkei, Head Instructor, Aikido Hatenkai
Table of Contents
- Introduction: A New Guideline Presented by Hatenkai
- Why is the 'State of Mastery' Necessary?: Establishing the "Backbone" of Hatenkai
- What is the 'State of Mastery'?: Definition and Three Requirements
- Attainment Levels of the 'State of Mastery': Step-by-Step Goal Setting
- Specific Examples of the Strict State of Mastery (Instantaneous to within 10 seconds) (Case of Kotegaeshi²)
- ■ Examples Considered Included/Not Included in the State of Mastery
- Why Pursue "Speed"?: Practical Reasons and Self-Growth
- Core Technique 'Flowing Standing Joint Locks' (Ruten suru Tachi Kansetsu³): Practical Technique Responding to Change
- Spirituality: The 'State of Mastery', 'Harmony' (Wagō⁴), and 'Masakatsu Agatsu Katsu hayahi⁵'
- The Uniqueness of Hatenkai: Balancing Philosophy and Practical Effectiveness
- Conclusion: The Evolution and Path of Aikido Presented by Hatenkai
- Glossary
Introduction: A New Guideline Presented by Hatenkai
Aikido Hatenkai continues its daily quest, aiming for a fusion of practical combative strength and the profound philosophy of Aikido. We have now proposed the concept of the 'State of Mastery' (Shōaku no Kyōchi)¹ as a concrete guideline for our association and as the ultimate technical and spiritual goal.
This article will explain in detail the background behind advocating this 'State of Mastery', its specific content, and the path Hatenkai aims to follow.
Why is the 'State of Mastery' Necessary?: Establishing the "Backbone" of Hatenkai
Until now, Hatenkai has engaged in diverse training, ranging from traditional kata⁶ practice to various forms of kumite⁷ and match formats (such as Unified Aikido Rules, Aikido randori⁸ matches), handling strikes, combination techniques, and counters.
However, despite this rich training system, a unified, clear guideline regarding the ultimate level to aim for or the skills to be acquired was not necessarily presented.
It is in this context that the 'State of Mastery' (Shōaku no Kyōchi)¹ was proposed.
This represents the ultimate state envisioned beyond the pursuit of deepening technique and spirituality within Hatenkai. Its purpose is to provide a consistent direction, essentially a 'backbone' running through the entire organization, to what was a diverse training system.
This concept is something I have deeply analyzed, systematized, and verbalized based on my own many years of practical experience in matches and sparring, and the high-level state that actually manifests during serious confrontations.
The word "state" (kyōchi) might sound abstract or unscientific, but this is not an unattainable idealism. We believe it can be achieved step-by-step through long and rigorous training. Precisely because the path is not easy and requires deep practice, we express it not merely as a "goal" but as an ultimate attainment point – a "state" (kyōchi).
What is the 'State of Mastery'?: Definition and Three Requirements
The 'State of Mastery' (Shōaku no Kyōchi)¹ refers to a technical system that highly integrates and coordinates the following three technical elements to calmly and reliably control an opponent, and simultaneously signifies a martial art state accompanied by high spirituality:
- Advanced Aiki Techniques: The core techniques of Aikido that utilize the opponent's power, ride the flow, and control the center.
- Refined Throwing Techniques: Techniques to effectively throw an opponent whose balance has been broken by Aiki.
- Effective Striking Techniques: Striking techniques used to handle the opponent's attacks, create openings, or assist in control with minimal force.
And the most crucial requirement in the execution of these techniques is 'Consideration for the Opponent' (Aite e no Hairyo).
What Hatenkai aims for is not mere victory or the destruction of the opponent. It is to reliably control the opponent without causing unnecessary pain or serious injury, even under severe circumstances. This ethical consideration is an indispensable element constituting the 'State of Mastery'.
This idea is defined through concrete requirements such as the time needed for control, the state to be achieved, and "Consideration for the Opponent".
Attainment Levels of the 'State of Mastery': Step-by-Step Goal Setting
The 'State of Mastery' (Shōaku no Kyōchi)¹ can be understood in stages according to its level of achievement. This is also a consideration to prevent a decline in practitioners' motivation by taking into account the feasibility of goal achievement.
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Strict Definition of the State of Mastery:
- Goal: Complete control from instantaneous up to within 10 seconds.
- State: An extremely high level of technique and mental state where the opponent is given no chance to resist, and the situation is instantly brought under control.
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Standard State of Mastery:
- Goal: Complete control within 10 to 30 seconds.
- State: A state where the opponent's resistance is quickly contained, leadership is swiftly and reliably seized, and control is achieved. (In my personal feeling, even 30 seconds can feel like "it took a bit long.")
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Broad Definition of the State of Mastery:
- Situation: Cases where the opponent is a highly skilled martial artist, potentially exceeding the times above.
- State: When the opponent's resistance is ultimately completely neutralized and controlled in a meaningful way.
Specific Examples of the Strict State of Mastery (Instantaneous to within 10 seconds) (Case of Kotegaeshi²)
- Against a one-two punch combination: Handle the one-two, and in that flow, immediately transition to Kotegaeshi to control.
- When grabbed: Disrupt the opponent's posture with a strike to their central axis, etc., and without giving them time to recover, control with Kotegaeshi.
- Against a kick: Handle the kick, divert the opponent's attention with a shutō⁹ (hand-edge strike) to the face, etc., exploit the opening, apply hiji shime¹⁰ (elbow control) → opponent resists by pulling arm → control with Kotegaeshi.
- Making the opponent block a strike: Have the opponent block a shutō to the face, etc., exploit the opening created by their defensive action (loss of posture, etc.), break their balance with ikkyō osae¹¹ (first teaching pin) → control the broken posture with Kotegaeshi.
- Against gyaku zuki¹² (reverse punch): After handling the reverse punch, stop their movement with effective consecutive strikes, see an opening, and control with Kotegaeshi.
- From a gedan geri¹³ (low kick): Unbalance the opponent with a low kick, quickly step in, and control with Kotegaeshi.
Note regarding the State of Mastery: Actions that inflict excessive injury or unnecessary pain on the opponent deviate from the definition of the State of Mastery (especially the requirement of 'Consideration for the Opponent').
■ Examples Considered Included/Not Included in the State of Mastery
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Cases interpreted as included:
- After disrupting the opponent's posture with an Aikido technique, using minimal and effective strikes (not causing excessive damage) intended to make the opponent lose their fighting spirit, leading to swift control. The strikes function as the "finishing touch" for control.
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Cases considered not included:
- After an Aikido technique, applying excessive strikes that have the potential to cause serious injury to the opponent (violates the 'Consideration for the Opponent' requirement).
- Cases where the Aikido technical element is insufficient, and control is primarily attempted through the power of strikes (deviates from Aikido's philosophy and technical system).
Why Pursue "Speed"?: Practical Reasons and Self-Growth
Why is "speed" emphasized in the 'State of Mastery' (Shōaku no Kyōchi)¹, particularly at the "Strict" and "Standard" levels? There are two aspects to this.
1. Practical Reasons: Risk Reduction and Safety Assurance In realistic situations of self-defense or resolving conflict, the longer the confrontation lasts, the higher the unpredictable risks (intervention by third parties, use of weapons, escalation of injuries, etc.). Bringing the situation under control safely and reliably in the shortest possible time is an extremely important element directly linked to the practicality and safety of martial arts.
2. Process of Self-Growth: Practicing 'Masakatsu Agatsu Katsu hayahi⁵' After ensuring practical effectiveness, further pursuing "speed" is considered an important process for polishing the mind and technique to a high level and fostering self-growth. This also connects to the practice of 'Masakatsu Agatsu Katsu hayahi', an important philosophy of Aikido.
- Speed is proof of "Correct Movement" (Masakatsu): True speed in martial arts is not born from brute force. It lies beyond the pursuit of the most efficient movement that aligns with the body's mechanics, is free of waste (i.e., correct movement). Aiming for "speed" thoroughly polishes the undeniable accuracy and rationality of technique.
- Speed is training in "Self-Control" (Agatsu): In situations demanding instantaneous judgment and precise action, moving quickly yet accurately requires calmness, concentration, and unwavering decisiveness. This is precisely the "state of controlling oneself" (Agatsu). The challenge towards "speed" becomes practical training to compose the mind under pressure and cultivate mental strength.
- Speed is approaching the "Ideal State" (Katsu hayahi): The ideal state, like that indicated by "Katsu hayahi", is natural, fluid, and transcends conflict. To approach this, aiming to become capable of moving "more efficiently, more effectively, more swiftly" is the practical path. The pursuit of "speed" is the very attitude of always aiming higher and trying to exceed one's limits.
Thus, the emphasis on "speed" in Hatenkai is because, in addition to practical effectiveness, we perceive it as a crucial means to train the mind (practice of Agatsu), polish technique (practice of Masakatsu), and grow oneself towards a higher state (a state akin to Katsu hayahi). "Speed" is an indicator that manifests as a result of highly polished mind and technique.
Core Technique 'Flowing Standing Joint Locks' (Ruten suru Tachi Kansetsu³): Practical Technique Responding to Change
The core concrete technical system for achieving the 'State of Mastery' (Shōaku no Kyōchi)¹ is 'Flowing Standing Joint Locks' (Ruten suru Tachi Kansetsu)³.
This can be described as a practical standing joint locking art that gives concrete technical form to the traditional Aikido concept of **'Takemusu Aiki'**¹⁴ (creativity and adaptability to generate infinite appropriate techniques according to the situation, without being bound by fixed forms).
Its greatest feature is its ability to respond instantly to changes in the opponent's movement and force, linking multiple standing joint locks seamlessly like flowing water, thereby breaking the opponent's balance and leading to control. It aims to respond flexibly to ever-changing situations without adhering rigidly to fixed kata.
For example, when an opponent grabs your wrist, you instantly adapt the technique to the elbow, and further to the shoulder, linking them according to their reaction. With proficiency, it becomes possible to instantly link three, four, or even more techniques depending on the situation, effectively bringing the opponent under control without giving them openings for counter-attack or defense. This unpredictable "flow" (ruten) is the key to advanced control techniques.
Spirituality: The 'State of Mastery', 'Harmony' (Wagō⁴), and 'Masakatsu Agatsu Katsu hayahi⁵'
The requirement of "Consideration for the Opponent" (controlling without excessive injury) within the 'State of Mastery' (Shōaku no Kyōchi)¹ signifies an important spirituality that transcends mere technical theory.
Hatenkai believes that this "reliable capability accompanied by consideration" is what truly embodies the Aikido ideal of **'Wagō' (Harmony)**⁴.
This is because the very attitude of not losing consideration for others even in extreme situations indicates high spirituality. It is not simply overpowering the opponent by force, but the ability to prevent conflict beforehand, or if it occurs, to resolve it swiftly with minimal force. We believe that true 'Wagō' is something that emanates from within, backed by such capability. Solid capability and confidence generate the mental composure not to be swayed by trivial provocations, which consequently leads to the power to avoid conflict.
And as mentioned earlier, the pursuit of the 'State of Mastery', especially its "speed" and "accuracy," can be described as the very process of concretely practicing the philosophy of 'Masakatsu Agatsu Katsu hayahi' (Overcome yourself (Agatsu), act correctly (Masakatsu), and victory will come swiftly and naturally (Katsu hayahi)) within actual training. Rigorous training aimed at speed polishes the mind (Agatsu), refines technique (Masakatsu), and is a rational and vital path towards approaching the ideal state (Katsu hayahi).
The Uniqueness of Hatenkai: Balancing Philosophy and Practical Effectiveness
While many Aikido schools emphasize spirituality or traditional kata, Hatenkai deeply respects Aikido's core philosophies (Takemusu Aiki, Wagō, Masakatsu Agatsu Katsu hayahi, etc.) while also thoroughly pursuing practical effectiveness. Its uniqueness lies in clearly presenting concrete goals (the 'State of Mastery'), technical systems ('Flowing Standing Joint Locks', etc.), and venues for verification (kumite, matches).
This can be seen as Hatenkai Aikido's unique answer—namely, the 'State of Mastery (Absolute Control)'¹—to the ideals or states pursued in other martial arts, such as 'Ichigeki Hissatsu'¹⁵ (one strike, certain kill) or 'Jū yoku Gō o Seisu'¹⁶ (softness overcomes hardness).
Conclusion: The Evolution and Path of Aikido Presented by Hatenkai
To develop Aikido's abstract philosophy of 'Takemusu Aiki'¹⁴ into the concrete technique of 'Flowing Standing Joint Locks'³, and through refining it, aim for the technical and spiritual attainment point of the 'State of Mastery'¹. And beyond that, reach the ultimate ideal of 'Wagō'⁴.
This is the training system of Aikido presented by Hatenkai, and it also encapsulates my personal view of martial arts.
Hatenkai's evolution is also reflected in the changes to its practical rules. The transition from the past 'Full Contact Aikido Rules' to the 'Unified Aikido Rules'¹⁷, which permitted face strikes with shutō, etc., and encouraged technical deepening, was an important step. And the 'State of Mastery' proposed this time indicates that Hatenkai has entered a new stage of development, not only in pursuing practical levels but also in terms of the goals and philosophical aspects to aim for.
My wish is that we share this high goal of the 'State of Mastery', polish our mind, technique, and body through daily training, and grow together.
I believe that beyond the daily training to acquire capability lies true 'Wagō', built upon inner fulfillment, and that this path leads to effective self-defense. I hope we can contribute together to the development of martial arts and the realization of a better society.
Glossary
- State of Mastery (Shōaku no Kyōchi): (掌握の境地) The ultimate technical attainment goal aimed for by Hatenkai. A martial art state that highly integrates and coordinates advanced Aiki techniques, refined throwing techniques, and effective striking, accompanied by consideration for the opponent (not causing unnecessary pain or serious injury), allowing for calm and reliable control. Sometimes referred to as 'Absolute Control'.
- Kotegaeshi: (小手返し) A fundamental Aikido wrist lock/throw technique involving an outward turn of the opponent's wrist.
- Flowing Standing Joint Locks (Ruten suru Tachi Kansetsu): (流転する立ち関節) The core concrete technical system for achieving the 'State of Mastery'. It embodies the Takemusu Aiki philosophy as technique, involving the seamless, fluid linking of multiple standing joint locks in response to the opponent's changing movements and force to achieve effective control.
- Harmony (Wagō): (和合) An ideal spiritual state in Aikido, referring to not conflicting with others and harmonizing with the laws of nature and the universe. It is also a spiritual goal of Hatenkai. However, it is not merely avoiding conflict; Hatenkai perceives true Wagō as the state, demonstrated by the 'State of Mastery', where one possesses the reliable capability accompanied by consideration for the opponent to prevent conflict or, if it occurs, resolve it swiftly with minimal force. It is believed that the mental composure resulting from capability and confidence also leads to the power to avoid conflict.
- Masakatsu Agatsu Katsu hayahi: (正勝吾勝勝速日) An important Aikido philosophy attributed to the founder, Morihei Ueshiba. Masakatsu means correct victory (acting in accordance with principle), Agatsu means victory over oneself (self-mastery), and Katsu hayahi signifies swift victory or a state transcending conflict that arises when the former two are achieved. Hatenkai interprets the pursuit of speed (efficiency and timeliness) as a practical way to embody this ideal.
- Kata: (型) Pre-arranged forms or patterns of movement used for practice in martial arts.
- Kumite: (組手) Sparring or partner practice in martial arts. In Hatenkai, this encompasses various formats.
- Randori: (乱取り) Free-style practice in martial arts, particularly Judo and Aikido, involving spontaneous application of techniques against a resisting partner.
- Shutō: (手刀) Hand-edge strike (often translated as "sword hand").
- Hiji shime: (肘締め) Elbow lock or control technique.
- Ikkyō osae: (一教抑え) "First teaching" pin or control technique in Aikido.
- Gyaku zuki: (逆突き) Reverse punch (a term common in Karate, used here to describe a type of linear thrusting attack).
- Gedan geri: (下段蹴り) Low kick, typically targeting the legs.
- Takemusu Aiki: (武産合気) An Aikido philosophy emphasizing the spontaneous and infinite generation (musu) of martial (take) techniques appropriate to the moment, born from a state of harmony (aiki), rather than relying on fixed patterns. It signifies creativity and adaptability.
- Ichigeki Hissatsu: (一撃必殺) "One strike, certain kill"; a martial arts concept emphasizing finishing a confrontation with a single, decisive blow. Contrasted here with Hatenkai's goal of control.
- Jū yoku Gō o Seisu: (柔よく剛を制す) "Softness overcomes hardness" or "Flexibility conquers rigidity"; a principle found in various martial arts, emphasizing yielding and redirecting force rather than meeting it directly.
- Unified Aikido Rules: (ユニファイド合気道ルール) Adopted by Hatenkai from 2019, these are more practical match rules that, in addition to traditional Aikido elements, permit techniques like shutō strikes to the face, Ganseki Otoshi¹⁸, and rear neck chokes/holds (ushiro kubi shime¹⁹), aiming to deepen technical effectiveness through verification in a more dynamic context.
- Ganseki Otoshi: (岩石落とし) Literally "rock drop". A specific striking technique permitted under Unified Aikido Rules, likely involving a downward strike. (Note: The precise nature of this technique requires further context or clarification from Hatenkai sources).
- Ushiro kubi shime: (後ろ首締め) Rear neck choke or hold.
"Isn't there a difference in nuance between 'Absolute Control' and '掌握の境地 (Shōaku no Kyōchi)'?
The accurate translation for '掌握の境地' is 'Zenith of Skill and Composure'. Please consider this to be the correct translation.
The name 'Absolute Control' is a liberal translation aimed specifically at a Japanese audience. For Japanese people, the name '掌握の境地' evokes a sense of depth related to traditional martial arts (Budō). However, depending on the context, it can sometimes also come across as mysterious or even dubious/suspicious.
Therefore, the name 'Absolute Control', which has a good ring to it and is easy to understand, was adopted for the Japanese audience. This is because, for Japanese people, 'Absolute Control' feels like a cool, clear, and fighting-sport-related name."
[Part 1: Getting to Know Hatenkai Aikido Easily] ~For beginners and the general public. Starting with "What is Aikido?"~
Q1. Isn't Aikido a martial art where you don't fight? So why do you have matches and stuff? A1. That's right, the ideal is to "resolve things without fighting." But sometimes, you really do have to stop someone, right? Matches and practice aren't about becoming strong in a fight, but rather "practice in stopping someone's movement precisely without injuring them." It's training to develop the "power for when it's really needed."
Q2. The 'State of Mastery' (Shōaku no Kyōchi) sounds kind of difficult...? A2. Simply put, it means "an amazing state where you completely understand the opponent's movements, use minimal force, don't hurt them, and have them perfectly under control." It's like the goal we're aiming for.
Q3. Isn't just doing kata (forms) enough? Are matches necessary? A3. Kata are the important basics. Like recipes in cooking. But just looking at recipes doesn't guarantee you can make delicious food, right? It's also important to actually try making it (matches and practice) to see if it works. It means both kata (recipes) and practice (cooking) are necessary.
Q4. Moving quickly doesn't seem very Aikido-like? A4. It's not just about being fast. It's not about moving frantically in panic, but more like being calm in your mind and having no wasted movement, so you naturally end up moving quickly. Because there's no hesitation like "Ah, this is what I should do!", you can move smoothly.
Q5. So, what is Hatenkai ultimately aiming for? A5. While cherishing the good parts of traditional Aikido (like the spirit of not fighting with others), it's about "acquiring the ability to smartly resolve situations when you're really in trouble, without hurting yourself or the opponent!" We're aiming for a cool martial art that is both strong and kind.
[Part 2: For Those Who Want to Know More Deeply] ~Gentle explanations based on reasoning about Aikido philosophy and differences from other styles~
Q6. How is it different from other Aikido styles? (Difference from traditional schools) A6. Other styles are wonderful too, but Hatenkai's style is "not relying solely on kata, but actually moving and verifying." That's why we aim for "Aikido that can really be used" by confirming the effectiveness of techniques through matches and partner practice.
Q7. Is it really possible to "stop someone without injuring them"? A7. It's not easy, but we practice to become able to do it. The key is not brute force, but the ingenuity to "read the opponent's movement ahead and stop them with minimal force." As you practice repeatedly, you naturally acquire such techniques.
Q8. How do you acquire the 'State of Mastery' (Shōaku no Kyōchi)? A8. First, by carefully observing the opponent's movements and learning how to break their balance (kuzushi) and manage distance (maai). Then, by internalizing the flow of joint locks and balance-breaking through physical practice. Finally, by also training your sensitivity to "presence" or "signs" (kehai) and "breath timing" (kokyū), you can gradually get closer.
Q9. You say "speed" is important, but is that the essence of Aikido? A9. The speed in Aikido isn't speed for competition, but rather "speed that comes from efficiency / lack of wasted movement." When your mind and body are aligned and settled, your movements naturally become refined and faster. So, it doesn't contradict the essence.
Q10. Are "matches" and "striking practice" necessary in Aikido? A10. It depends on the purpose, but to know "how to respond to an opponent who is actually moving," they are very important. While acquiring practical effectiveness, they are intended more as a means "to apply techniques better" rather than "competing for wins and losses with the opponent."
[Part 3: Thinking Aikido – Bridging Philosophy and Practice] ~For those considering the future of Aikido, connecting mind, technique, and body~
Q11. Isn't there a contradiction between 'Wagō' (Harmony) and "controlling power / ability to subdue"? A11. Wagō means "creating harmony without forced conflict." The ability to control (seiatsu-ryoku) is one means to achieve that. Rather, if you think of it as "a technique to quickly end a situation to prevent useless violence," it can be compatible with Wagō.
Q12. Should Aikido become competitive? Or is it fine as it is? A12. It's hard to say definitively, but Hatenkai believes that "a place for technical verification and experiencing a sense of pressure/tension" is necessary. However, we emphasize matches not as prioritizing winning or losing, but as "a place to test and mutually improve."
Q13. Is it really useful in a real fight? (Self-defense, against multiple opponents, etc.) A13. To be immediately useful in real situations, we incorporate practice for dealing with multiple opponents and responding to limited strikes. However, we equally value the mental preparedness (risk management / kiki kanri) to avoid actual trouble in the first place.
Q14. Isn't the 'State of Mastery' (Shōaku no Kyōchi) just an idealism? A14. Even if complete attainment is difficult, "aiming" for it allows for significant growth in both technique and spirit. We believe that the attitude of "approaching the ideal" while responding to real challenges is the very essence of martial arts training (shugyō).
Q15. How does Hatenkai balance the "strength" and "kindness" it aims for? A15. Strength is the "power to protect," and kindness is the "heart not to injure." These two are actually very similar. By acquiring not the power to defeat an opponent, but the "power to manage without having to defeat the opponent," achieving both becomes possible.
[Part 4: Deeper Explanation – The State of Mastery and its Martial Philosophy]
Q1. Is the 'State of Mastery (Absolute Control)' (Shōaku no Kyōchi) merely a control technique? A1. No, it fundamentally differs from control merely by force. The 'State of Mastery' is an ideal state of instantaneously grasping the opponent's movements, intentions, and reactions, and responding naturally without waste, thereby controlling the opponent without relying on strength or speed and without causing harm. It is the pinnacle of technique, while also being a "state" (kyōchi) connected to mental calmness and ethics.
Q2. Traditional Aikido emphasizes 'Wagō' (Harmony). Doesn't this contradict it? A2. It does not contradict it. Rather, the 'State of Mastery' is an attempt to embody the philosophy of Wagō as realistic technique. Wagō is not simply avoiding conflict, but also receiving the opponent's force without resistance (murinaku) and resolving the situation without collision. The exploration of match-like training and realistic response methods is considered one way to practically polish this power of Wagō.
Q3. Then why does Hatenkai emphasize matches and verification? A3. Merely talking about ideals does not cultivate the power to respond to reality. Hatenkai places importance on the effectiveness and reproducibility of techniques. Match-format practice is not simply for competing over wins and losses, but considered a place for self-verification: "How calmly, efficiently, and non-destructively can I actually control the situation?" Through this, 'Wagō' is embodied as a realistic principle of action, rather than ending as mere idealism.
Q4. Is emphasizing "speed" correct from an Aikido perspective? A4. Speed in Aikido is not the "speed of haste," but the "speed of non-hesitation." In the 'State of Mastery', because one moves by reading the opponent's intention, actions that anticipate take the initiative (sente o toru) and naturally become fast. This speed connects to the Aikido mythological concept of 'Katsu hayahi' (swift victory), representing speed that possesses deep spirituality, where correct judgment and action are unified.
Q5. Isn't Hatenkai's approach a denial of traditional Aikido? A5. It is not a denial. Rather, it is a reinterpretation seeking to understand traditional philosophies more deeply and apply them within the modern environment. Hatenkai respects the core of traditional Aikido, such as the "spirit dwelling within kata," the "high ideal of Wagō," and the "aesthetics of non-destructiveness," while searching for a path that serves as a "bridge" between technique and ethics, ideals and reality.
[Part 5: For You, Taking the First Step]
Q1. I want to try Aikido, but I'm worried if I can do it. A1. It's okay. Aikido is not a "martial art of winning and losing" focused on becoming strong, but a path to face yourself and become able to move with a calm mind. A major appeal of Aikido is that you can learn at your own pace, regardless of age or physical fitness.
Q2. What kind of atmosphere does the Hatenkai dojo have? A2. Hatenkai is a dojo aiming for "strong and kind Aikido." We practice techniques diligently, but we don't force unreasonable things. We cherish an environment where you can improve little by little in an atmosphere where "it's safe to fail."
Q3. What kind of person is suited for Aikido? A3. At first glance, one might think "people good at sports," but actually, "people who can listen calmly" and "people who can persevere steadily" are suited for Aikido. Anyone with a feeling of respect for themselves and others is very welcome.
Q4. Is it okay if I'm not confident in my physical strength? A4. No problem. In Aikido, we value "movement without straining" (rikimanai ugoki). Techniques are decided not by strength, but by body usage, balance, and breath (kokyū), so relying less on physical strength actually brings you closer to Aikido-like movement.
Q5. What kind of future awaits? A5. Through Aikido, you will gain confidence in your own mind and body. Becoming able to act calmly, being considerate of others, without being easily disturbed—this is a power that is very useful in daily life as well. Aikido training is a journey of self-cultivation. Won't you join us in starting this walk together?