Self-Improvement
Minoru Mochizuki, the founder of Yoseikan Budo, taught (as did Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo, Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido, and Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan Karate) that the ultimate purpose of the study was not to be the best fighter, but to learn how to develop the attitude and character necessary to confront life's challenges. The mindful, vigorous, and challenging practice of Yoseikan Budo techniques provides a practical framework to develop valuable attributes and qualities. Ultimately, students of Yoseikan Budo work hard to improve themselves so that they can engage with obstacles and build harmony in relationships at home, work, and the community-at-large.
Although Aikido is said to be non-competitive, practitioners are in a constant state of competition against their greatest opponent – themselves. While most competitive martial arts or sports view opponents as objects to be eliminated in order to come out on top, the teachings of Budo help a person to develop a humble confidence and to evolve beyond this mindset. Moral values form the backbone of the physical training in Yoseikan Budo Aikido.
Although Aikido is said to be non-competitive, practitioners are in a constant state of competition against their greatest opponent – themselves. While most competitive martial arts or sports view opponents as objects to be eliminated in order to come out on top, the teachings of Budo help a person to develop a humble confidence and to evolve beyond this mindset. Moral values form the backbone of the physical training in Yoseikan Budo Aikido.