Aikido is often known by its falls, throws (similar to judo), joint locks (similar to jujustu), sword work (similar to budo and kendo), circular motions and fluid movements - graceful, dance like qualities (like tai chi). The combination is powerful and effective.

Practice makes practical in aikido like many other martial arts. And, in the martial arts community, while many argue practicality, those who practice will become masters, while those who argue will just come up with arguments. Aikido takes many years to master, like most martial arts. But aiki techniques and keeping a cool head can be useful in many situations. Other techniques may be called “20 year techniques.” Aikido is arguably a practical martial art, like many others.

Aikido stresses learning to blend with oncoming energy - in physical and mental martial arts - on the mat in everyday life. Easier said than done, but again, practice is key

O’Sensei took Aikido from several martial arts and other disciplines. As mentioned in the identity section - he studied several military and martial disciplines and used them all as a blend to defend, block, redirect energy of oncoming opponents or energy. This is the essence of Aikido - to blend with the energy and redirect it to cause as little harm as possible to oneself and opponent.