Our Lineage

Morihei Ueshiba – The Founder of Aikido

Morihei Ueshiba (1883–1969), known as O’Sensei or “Great Teacher,” is the founder of Aikido, a martial art based on harmony, balance, and self-mastery.

The Foundation of Aikido

Originally trained in several traditional Japanese martial arts, including Daito Ryu Aiki-Jujutsu, Ueshiba was a highly skilled and formidable martial artist. However, through years of training, reflection, and spiritual study, he came to believe that true strength was not found in defeating others, but in achieving harmony with them.

This philosophy became the foundation of Aikido.

Ushiba’s Philosophy

Victory Over Oneself

Rather than meeting force with force, Aikido teaches practitioners to blend with an attack, redirect energy, and neutralise conflict without unnecessary harm. Ueshiba believed that the greatest victory is the victory over oneself, and that martial arts should develop character, not just combat ability.

O’Sensei’s vision was to create a martial art that could:

Develop the body, mind, and spirit

Promote peace rather than violence

Help individuals live in harmony with others

Today, Aikido is practised worldwide as both a highly effective system of self-defence and a path of personal growth.

At West Coast Aikido, we proudly carry forward the teachings and philosophy of O’Sensei in everything we do.

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