The Similarities Between Tai Chi and Yoshinkan Aikido

Yoshinkan Aikido and Tai Chi are two martial arts that share many similarities. Both are based on the philosophy of using an opponent’s own momentum against them, and both emphasize redirecting an attacker’s energy rather than meeting it head-on.

In addition, both Yoshinkan Aikido and Tai Chi place a strong emphasis on the importance of proper form and posture. However, there are fundamental differences between these two martial arts; Yoshinkan Aikido is mainly practiced for self-defense whereas tai chi is mainly practiced for its health benefits.

This article will explore some of the similarities between the Japanese martial art of Yoshinkan Aikido and the Chinese martial art of Tai Chi.

Similarities of Yoshinkan Aikido and Tai Chi

The first similarity between Yoshinkan Aikido and Tai Chi is that they are both based on the philosophy of using an opponent’s own momentum against them.

This means that instead of trying to match an attacker’s strength with brute strength, a practitioner of either martial art will instead use their opponent’s force to their own advantage.

This can be done by redirecting an incoming strike or by using an attacker’s forward motion to throw them off balance.

Another similarity is that they both emphasize redirecting an attacker’s energy rather than meeting it head-on. This is in keeping with the principle of using an opponent’s momentum against them.

By redirecting an incoming attack, a practitioner can avoid taking any damage while at the same time putting their attacker off balance and in a position where they can be easily countered.

In addition to these two major similarities, both of these martial arts also share the belief that proper posture and form are essential.

Tai Chi practitioners strive to maintain perfect alignment in their bodies at all times, allowing them to gain greater power and control over their movements to execute techniques effectively, whereas Yoshinkan Aikido practitioners are always in the kamae stance that allows them to react to an opponent from any direction.

Conclusion

Yoshinkan Aikido and Tai Chi share many similarities. Both martial arts utilize an opponent’s momentum as well as the importance of proper form and posture.

We encourage you to try out both these martial arts to experience these similarities yourself.