Aikido is not about competition. There are no winners or losers in true Aikido. Rather, through training and technique practice with a partner, one can learn to blend one’s energies and efforts with others. While Aikido can be used very effectively for self-defense, its true benefits are realized outside the dojo in everyday life. Utilizing Aikido principles in daily life can help to avoid and defuse conflicts rather than create them.

My sons and I appreciate the opportunity to study Aikido under such an accomplished and gifted teacher as Master Soengkono.