What I Wish I Knew When I Started Aikido
By Dennis Velasquez
Recently, I had the opportunity to collaborate with a group at my dojo on ideas for a new student orientation. I found myself reflecting on what I wish I had known when I first stepped onto the mat. What would have helped me feel more at ease? What might have made those early days a little less confusing and a lot more encouraging?
Here’s what I came up with; advice and insights I’d share with anyone who’s just beginning, or even thinking about beginning, their journey in Aikido.
Aikido is Not About Street Fighting
Unlike some martial arts that focus on sparring or overpowering an opponent, Aikido is
about harmony. It is rooted in using movement, leverage, and timing (not strength or
aggression) to redirect energy and neutralize conflict. We train with our partners, not
against them. There’s no competition, no trophies. Just cooperative learning and mutual
growth.
The Physical and Mental Benefits Go Far Beyond Self-Defense
Sure, Aikido can help you protect yourself. But Aikido offers a lot beyond self-defense.
Training improves balance and coordination, enhances flexibility and posture, and
teaches you how to stay calm under pressure; skills that ripple into daily life in subtle,
powerful ways.
The Art of Relaxation
One of the biggest surprises for me was how important it is to stay relaxed and flexible.
It felt completely counterintuitive; when someone is grabbing you or coming toward you,
your instinct might be to stiffen up and resist. But in Aikido, tension will make your
movements clumsy and ineffective. This also applies to ukemi, learning to relax during
rolls and falls will help you absorb impact safely and fluidly.
Why We Bow and Why We Clean
Etiquette is woven into Aikido practice. We bow when we enter the dojo, when we
leave, and when we train with each other. These bows aren’t about hierarchy, they’re
about respect. Respect for the space, your training partners, your teachers, and the art
itself.
We also clean the dojo. It’s not just about hygiene; it’s an act of mindfulness. A clean
space reflects a clear mind and a commitment to being fully present.
Rolling, Falling, and Throwing Yourself Around (on Purpose)
One thing that shocked me early on was just how much intentional falling there is in
Aikido. We don’t just get thrown, we often throw ourselves. Ukemi is a core part of
training. It teaches you how to move safely through momentum, impact, and the
unexpected.
For me, this was especially intimidating. I had just received the green light from my
doctor to begin training after years of recovering from a spinal injury. The idea of rolling,
let alone being thrown, felt horrifying at first. But with encouragement from my Sensei
and senpais, and patient practice, I began to trust my body again, bit by bit. Ukemi
helped me rebuild that trust. It may feel awkward or scary in the beginning, but over
time, it becomes second nature and even fun.
Techniques and Terminology
Aikido has its own language (mostly Japanese) and it can feel like information overload
at first. Don’t let it overwhelm you. Asking questions, taking notes, and using reference
materials can help a lot. Be patient with yourself as you absorb new terms and
movements. You’re not alone.
Progress Takes Time – and That’s Okay
Aikido isn’t something you “master” quickly. It requires consistent practice, repetition,
and patience. You’ll find yourself repeating the same movements hundreds of times,
refining them little by little. Resist the urge to rush. Focus on form before speed or
power. The smallest refinements often make the biggest difference.
Ego is Your Enemy
One of the best pieces of advice I got was to leave my ego at the door. Progress in
Aikido isn’t about how tough or skilled you appear. Instead of trying to “win” against your
training partner, you’ll learn to work with them, not against them. The more you help
your partner learn, the more you’ll grow together.
Aikido is a Journey, Not a Destination
Rank and belts are far less important than skill, understanding, and mindset. Progress
in Aikido isn’t measured just by belts but by your ability to move fluidly, respond
intuitively, and train with awareness.
A Lifelong Practice
One of the most inspiring things about Aikido is how adaptable it is. People of all ages,
body types, and fitness levels can train and thrive. I started at 40. Sure, there are days I
wish that I’d begun when I was younger and more flexible, but the truth is, Aikido meets
you where you are and grows with you. Many practitioners continue well into their 70s
and 80s. This art isn’t just about mastering techniques, it’s about developing a way of
moving, thinking, and responding that supports you throughout your life.
If you are just starting out: keep showing up. Stay curious. Ask questions. Laugh at your
mistakes. And most importantly, enjoy the process.
April 2025
Dennis Velasquez is a member of Multnomah Aikikai