Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art (along with Karate & Judo) that teaches profound principles for self defense, fitness - health & personal growth. While the principles of all martial arts teach self defense, the emphasis in martial arts training is not fighting. Aikido is a way of life, not a form of violence. Aikido teaches compassion in the face of brutality and harmony in the midst of conflict resulting in tremendous power and efficacy. Aikido principles manifest in other martial arts & all aspects of one's life. Aikido is unique among martial arts for emphasizing non-harm to an attacker early in the training as well as dealing with multiple attacks.