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Why Aikido? If you have ever thought of doing anything different, then Aikido could be for you. Unlikely other martial styles, this Japanese martial art is more a physical discipline and a form of educationin motion than self-defence. It doesn't require an initial high standard of fitness which is attained gradually through soft and energetic exercise. Aikido aims at starting or rediscovering personal development and self-esteem while gently improving physical fitness. It is designed to allow all kinds of people to practice together, listening to each others similarities and integrating each others differences more than mere fighting. In Aikido students don't punch and kick but rather blend their movements with the partner's and utilise arm-locks and throws to dispose of the attacker. Moreover Aikido students do not take part in competitions. "For us is fun to achieve better condition in your self and not to win at any cost against someone else", explains Simone, the Sligo Aikikai Head Instructor. Simone, who is from Rome, maintains that our modern society is already saturated with competition. "Our children and us don't need to become self-defenders or fighters, we all need to keep the learning process open and fresh energy flowing. Aikido supplies the trainee with a vast source of personal development skills. What we really need are better people". If you are unfamiliar with Aikido and would like to see how it looks like, you are welcome to view videos from past  Aikido Organisation of Ireland courses and events: