Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art that was developed by Morihei Ueshiba in the early 20th century. It emphasizes redirecting an opponent's energy and using their movements against them, rather than relying on brute force. The word "aikido" can be translated as "the way of harmony with the spirit."

Key aspects of Aikido include:

1. Blending and Redirecting: Aikido techniques involve blending with an opponent's attack and redirecting their energy to neutralize the attack. Practitioners aim to harmonize with the attacker's movements, rather than opposing them directly.

2. Joint Locks and Throws: Aikido techniques often involve joint locks, such as wrist locks or arm locks, to immobilize an opponent. Throws and takedowns are also utilized to control the opponent's balance and render them unable to continue their attack.

3. Circular Movements: Circular movements are fundamental to Aikido. Practitioners use fluid and continuous motions to redirect an opponent's force smoothly, allowing them to maintain control and counterattack effectively.

4. Non-Resistance and Non-Violence: Aikido promotes the concept of non-resistance and non-violence. Rather than meeting an attack with force, practitioners seek to redirect the energy and neutralize the aggression without causing harm.

5. Training with Partners: Aikido training typically involves practicing techniques with partners in a cooperative manner. The emphasis is on mutual learning, developing sensitivity to the opponent's movements, and understanding the principles of balance and energy.

6. Weapon Techniques: Aikido also incorporates training with traditional Japanese weapons, such as the wooden staff (jo), wooden sword (bokken), and knife (tanto). Weapon techniques are integrated into Aikido training to enhance understanding of distance, timing, and body movements.

7. Mind-Body Integration: Aikido emphasizes the integration of mind, body, and spirit. Practitioners strive to cultivate a calm and focused mind while maintaining a relaxed and balanced body posture during training.

8. Philosophy and Personal Development: Aikido promotes personal growth, self-discipline, and the development of a peaceful mindset. It emphasizes respect, humility, and harmonious interaction both on and off the training mat.

Aikido is not typically practiced as a competitive sport, and there are no formal competitions or tournaments. Instead, training focuses on cooperative practice, self-improvement, and the practical application of techniques in real-life situations. Aikido techniques are designed to allow practitioners to defend themselves while minimizing harm to the attacker.

Aikido is primarily practiced as a martial art and a form of self-defense rather than a competitive sport. As such, it does not have standardized rules like those found in sports or competitive martial arts. However, there are some general guidelines and principles followed in Aikido practice:

1. Safety and Respect: Safety is of utmost importance in Aikido training. Practitioners are expected to train in a manner that promotes the well-being and safety of both themselves and their training partners. Mutual respect for instructors, training partners, and the dojo environment is essential.

2. Cooperative Training: Aikido training is typically conducted in a cooperative manner. Practitioners work together to practice techniques, with one person assuming the role of the attacker (uke) and the other person being the defender (nage). The goal is to learn and refine techniques through mutual understanding and communication.

3. Blending and Redirecting: Aikido techniques emphasize blending with an attacker's energy and redirecting their force rather than opposing it directly. The defender seeks to harmonize with the attacker's movements and redirect their energy to neutralize the attack.

4. Controlled Techniques: Aikido techniques are executed with control and focus. The defender aims to maintain control over the attacker's balance and movements while executing throws, joint locks, or immobilizations. The goal is to subdue or neutralize the attack without causing unnecessary harm to the attacker.

5. Mind-Body Coordination: Aikido places a strong emphasis on the integration of mind, body, and spirit. Practitioners strive to develop a calm and focused mind while maintaining a relaxed and balanced body posture during training. This mind-body coordination enhances the effectiveness of techniques.

6. Gradual Progression: Aikido training typically follows a progressive curriculum, where practitioners learn and practice techniques of increasing complexity as they advance. The focus is on understanding fundamental principles and gradually building proficiency through consistent training over time.

7. Respect for Weapons: Aikido incorporates training with traditional Japanese weapons, such as the wooden staff (jo), wooden sword (bokken), and knife (tanto). Practitioners learn weapon techniques to enhance their understanding of distance, timing, and body movements. Respect and proper handling of weapons are emphasized during training.

It's important to note that Aikido training can vary between dojos (training schools) and instructors. While the principles mentioned above are generally followed, the specific training methods, teaching styles, and etiquette may differ. It is advisable to consult with the instructor or dojo to understand their specific guidelines and expectations for training.