DIFFERENT SCHOOLS
Today, there are two different forms of the martial art of aikido.
Kenji Tomiki founded the Tomiki aikido school. This martial art deviates from the traditional aikido practices in that it focuses on competition. Competitors go through four stages of competition. The first is called kata, where pairs compete and choose the kata (techniques) they wish to illustrate. Ninin-dori is a freestyle martial arts fight where two participants battle against an opponent. This competition mainly serves as a test of how well self defense martial arts students can do under pressure, and how quick they respond to their opponent's moves. The third type of competition is called randori kyoghi. Two unarmed martial arts students fight and show how skilled they are in particular techniques. Non-activity can lead to disqualification, so movement is imperative. Tanto randori is the last type, and it consists of weapons. Martial arts students must defend themselves against a knife or short sword.
The second form of aikido is called yoshin aikido. It was founded by Gozo Shioda, and it is also a variation on Ueshiba's martial art. The emphasis here is on developing intuition and controlling one's self through hard and rigorous training. The goal in this martial art is harmony, rather than containment of ki.

Techniques Comming Soon!