Aikido is a traditional martial art and form of self-defense. It originated in Japan during the twentieth century, and is now practiced worldwide. Called the Art of Peace by its founder Morihei Ueshiba (also known as O'Sensei, meaning "respected teacher," [1883-1969]), aikido emphasizes the compassionate resolution of physical conflict, and offers a lifestyle devoted to personal growth, physical and spiritual fitness, and a deeply bound intentional community.

Aikido's technical repertoire utilizes a combination of throwing techniques, joint locks, and strikes, but particularly focuses on timing, body placement, and strategies for unbalancing an opponent. Training with the Japanese wooden sword (bokken), staff (jo), and tanto (knife) are also fundamental practices in aikido as traditional weapons techniques underlie much of aikido's contemporary hand-to-hand techniques.

O’sensei considered his art to be a true budo—a martial path of spiritual development. Therefore, aikido is not practiced as a competitive sport. There are no tournaments in aikido, no emphasis on victory, and no fear of defeat. In O’sensei’s words, “true victory is self victory.”