Ki is a controversial topic in Aikido.
Many Aikido teachers do not talk about Ki very much.
Other will suggest that when we say Ki we mean something like breath, timing, intention, relaxation, internal power and other more easily understood concepts with a clear explanation.
When Morihei Ueshiba (the founder of Aikido) died the head teacher at the time at the world “headquarters” of Aikido was Koichi Tohei Sensei.
He wanted to more specifically train Ki within his Aikido training. However, the son of the founder did not want to add this to the training syllabus.
This led to a split in the Aikido world and Tohei left to start his own organisation. Our own training comes from his style which is often called Ki Aikido.
Ki, is similar to the Chinese term Qi.
Here is a definition:
“the circulating life force whose existence and properties are the basis of much Chinese philosophy and medicine.”
Sensei Ken Williams, founder of the Ki Federation puts it this way:
“The Japanese word “Ki” is sometimes translated as meaning “Life Power“ or “Vital Energy‘. It is claimed to be a form of energy distinct from that related to pure physical size, or muscular strength.”
Ki is something that is experienced in different ways in Aikido and through training those experiences will emerge more.
As part of our Ki training, we practise the Ki tests and aim to train in line with the Ki principles.
We also practise Ki breathing and other meditation technques for developing Ki.
This training has the ability to transform us in a positive way.
You are welcome to send me any questions or enquiries about Aikido.
Aikido For Glasgow 