Aikido is a purely defensive martial art based on using the opponent's strength and aggression against them in a controlled rather than damaging manner. Ki Aikido is not a sport and retains a traditional view to practice. All techniques in aikido can cause injury and practice discipline and a respect for your practice partner must be maintained.

Where aikido differs from many other martial arts is its emphasis on blending, posture and timing and Ki to affect the opponent without needing to resort to strikes or kicks. Relying on strength in aikido is not only unneccessary, but will also reduce the effectiveness of your technique.

Typically, aikido is practised in pairs. One partner (Uke) will attempt an attack (the attack can range from a simple grab of the arm or clothing to a fast strike with a knife or sword) the other partner (Tori) will defend or simply evade using aikido. This reliance on a partner fosters co-operation and harmony within the dojo and aids self development greatly as the normal element of competition found within martial arts is removed.

Although aikido is principally an unarmed martial art, some Japanese weapon work is taught as an aid to concentration and posture.