Aikido
Aikido (Ai - Harmony, Ki - Spirit, Do - Way) is an effective form of self-defense derived from Japanese Bujutsu (Warrior Ways).
Recently, Aikido is enjoying as much popularity in the western world as it is in Japan, where it is held in high esteem. Aikido has a history of over 800 years. Originating in the hostile conditions of war battlefields and adapted and modified to suit our modern style of living.
Aikido is effective for men, women, adults and children, because Aikido does not rely on the victim's strength to execute an effective defense. Instead Aikido uses the attacker strength to defeat them, therefore, the stronger the attack the more powerful the response.
Aikido training also includes the use of weapons such jo (a staff 4 or 5 feet in length), the bokken (a wooden sword), and the tanto (a knife, usually made of wood). However students also learn how to utilize everyday objects such as a chair, umbrella in defense of an attacker.