What is the difference between Karate and Aikido?
Karate is a martial art based primarily on striking, using the hands and feet. Attacks are often blocked using the arms and legs, then counter blows are delivered. Aikido is about blending with the speed and power of an attack and using that energy against the attacker. There is little conflict in Aikido. The Aikidoist (Aikidoka) does not block an incoming attack, he or she positions him or herself in such a manner that the attack will miss. The Aikidoist also tries to avoid fighting or wrestling with an opponent. Powerful joint locks may be applied using the attacker’s energy and resistance as well as centering and other leverage principles to avoid contests involving strength and size. This makes Aikido applicable to practitioners of all shapes and sizes. There are striking techniques in Aikido, but they differ from those found in most Karate styles, because they do not involve a power snapping motion of the limbs. Instead, the Aikidoist directs his opponent off balance and uses his
