Aikido was developed by Morihei Ueshiba, referred to as  O'Sensei by Aikido practioners. That title means "Great Teacher" in Japanese and, according to all reports, he was. His strength and skill are the stuff of legend as is his spiritual development. The martial art he developed grew out of his study of  Sumo, military bayonet fighting,  Goto Ryu Yagyu Jujutsu, and, very importantly,  Daito Ryu Aikijutsu. The latter was the creation of a very interesting martial artist by the name of Sokaku Takeda with whom O'Sensei studied for many years. Ueshiba Sensei also studied sword and stick (jo) arts throughout his life and incorporated what he learned into Aikido.

Another important aspect in the development of Aikido was O'Sensei's spiritual evolution. In that growth he was aided by another very interesting and charismatic character, Onisaburo Deguchi, who began a religion called   Omoto-kyo. The history of their relationship and its effect on the development of Aikido is discussed in more detail in the very fine biography of O'Sensei called   Abundant Peace written by John Stevens and published by Shambala Press. It is a wonderful book and, if you are interested in the origins of Aikido, you will find it enlightening.

AAikido as practised at Kobe Seibukan Dojo is Aikikai Aikido as practised at Hombu Dojo in Tokyo and at the other aikikai dojos around the world. It provides a vigorous aerobic and muscular workout as well as improving flexibility, balance, and hand-to-eye coordination. It is practised by all ages and both sexes to everyone's benefit.