Exploring Aikido Styles: Formlessness and Technique

Aikido, the art of the spiritual unifier, is a methodology that revolves around the principles of harmonizing with an opponent rather than confrontation. For practitioners seeking a pathway that aligns closely with the formlessness envisioned by its founder Morihei Ueshiba, several styles stand out. In this article, we delve into the nuances of Aikido styles that embody these philosophies, with a focus on Yoshinkan Aikido, Aikido as taught by the Aikikai Foundation, and Ki Aikido.

Yoshinkan Aikido: Structure and Formlessness

The Aikido style that is often considered to have the least amount of techniques, while still emphasizing formlessness as envisioned by Ueshiba, is Yoshinkan Aikido. This style, adhered to by many serious students and practitioners, emphasizes a more structured approach to training. Despite its structured nature, Yoshinkan Aikido maintains the essence of formlessness in its techniques. The focus on a concise set of fundamental movements allows practitioners to develop a deep understanding of the art's principles.

Aikikai Aikido: Philosophical Realization of Formlessness

For those looking for a style that embodies the philosophical aspects of formlessness and simplicity that Ueshiba promoted, Aikido as taught by the Aikikai Foundation is a strong contender. This style tends to focus on the fundamental principles rather than a large number of techniques. Aikikai Aikido places significant emphasis on the underlying principles of movement and energy, promoting a way of harmonizing with an opponent rather than defeating them. This perspective aligns closely with Ueshiba's vision of aikido as a way of spiritual development and self-transformation.

Ki Aikido: Transformative Approach

In contrast to the structured approaches of Yoshinkan and Aikikai Aikido, Ki Aikido, developed by Koichi Tohei, takes a more transformative and personalized approach. Ki Aikido includes 150 "named" techniques, each offering a unique way to control an opponent while maintaining a peaceful resolution. However, the concept of ki (life force) plays a central role in Ki Aikido, making the learning process more about understanding and harnessing energy.

Practical Application and Mastery

For Ki Aikido practitioners, the named techniques serve as a roadmap for understanding and applying the art's principles. While mastering 150 techniques seems daunting, the term ki simplifies many of the complex movements involved. For instance, the names katatedori koteorishi enundo provide a clear mnemonic framework: katatedori (same side wrist grab), koteoroshi (a particular wrist control technique), and enundo (spiralling uke around you, continuing to turn until the uke falls).

As a practitioner, these named techniques and the underlying energy principles gradually become intuitively understood. The vast array of variations on the named arts reflects the flexible and adaptable nature of ki. The goal is to learn the techniques to the point where one can instinctively respond to aggression, harmonizing with the flow of energy rather than engaging in confrontation.

Conclusion

While Yoshinkan Aikido is known for its clear and structured techniques, Aikikai Aikido is more aligned with the philosophical aspects of formlessness that Ueshiba promoted. Ki Aikido, on the other hand, emphasizes the transformational and energy-focused approach to aikido. Each style offers a unique path to understanding and practicing aikido, but all share the core principle of achieving harmony and self-transformation.