The Japanese martial art of Aikido was developed by Morihei Ueshiba during the twentieth century. His unique approach to the martial arts emphasizes blending, instead of clashing with an attacker's energy. It is characterized by circular actions and smooth extension of power. It teaches fluid, supple, effective movements which are free from any form of rigidity. Muscle power is not needed but rather a relaxed, controlled body. There is a constant reference to one's "center", as the point of concentration of energy and balance; there is the predominance of references to "ki", or "inner energy", as the particular form of energy to be used. Aikido helps students understand what is going on in the mind and body when techniques are employed.

Aikido is an art of self-defense. It has no tournaments, competitions, or contests. There is no attack in Aikido. When techniques are applied, after a certain degree of mastery has been achieved, they have the potential of leaving no serious injury in their wake. The student has complete control over how much damage is brought upon the attacker. Different situations call for different responses or levels of resolution. Preventing a friend from driving drunk would need to be dealt with differently than a criminal entering your home. Mizu Aikido teaches different evels of self-defense, depending on the circumstances. Through intense training with joint locks, chokes, throws, take-downs and some strikes, students learn how to control their defense, enabling them to resolve a situation in an appropriate way.

Mizu Aikido stresses realistic martial arts training. Only through functional self-defense techniques and developed situational awareness can one feel confident in a sometimes unsafe society. It is important to practice Aikido in a sincere fashion, always taking into consideration the unpredictability of real-life confrontations. All formal instruction of techniques are usually followed by "freestyle drills". These drills were developed to practice techniques in a free, unchoreographed environment. More importantly, they show how energy can suddenly change or how techniques can break down due to factors such as resistance, speed, adrenaline, environment, and stress. Learning how to compensate for the factors while still applying effective Aikido techniques, equips the student with a more realistic self-defense arsenal. Without a commitment to train in a realistic fashion, the martial arts can be very misleading and dangerous, leaving some with a false sense of security.

The art of Aikido is not only a system of combat, but also a means of self-cultivationand improvement. According to the founder, the goal of Aikido is not the defeat of others, but rather the defeat of the negative characteristics which inhabit one's own mind. Aikido training works at many levels; physical, mental, spiritual and functional. Many have found it a method for improving their coordination, reflexes, timing, and general physical well-being. In time, it can be applied to everyday life, whether it's feeling more confident, dealing with stress, being more aware, communicating with others, or driving a car. With dedication, Aikido has the potential of presenting endless opportunities for improving one's life.

It must be emphasized that there are no shortcuts to proficiency in Aikido. Attaining proficiency is simply a matter of sustained and dedicated training. No one becomes an expert overnight.