Aikido is a Japanese martial art founded in the early 20th century by Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969), also known as O-Sensei (Great Teacher). O-Sensei was a master of several Samurai arts including Kenjutsu (sword), Sojutsu (spear) and Jujutsu. He was a deeply spiritual person and realized that peaceful resolutions were necessary for ending violence in the world. O-Sensei ultimately created a martial art in which aggression is met with compassion. Aikido is sometimes referred to as the "way of harmony."

Aikido is primarily an unarmed art; however, there is substantial training with the sword and staff. Movement is characterized as dynamic, circular and efficient. Attacks are resolved through maintaining proper timing, distance, and feeling; conflict is avoided. With daily practice the body will become stronger and endurance greater. Along with the practical application of Aikido as a form of self-defense, the training can serve to improve one's quality of life by following the basic principles of Aikido: relax completely, stay calm, keep your center, and stay positive. As students continue to practice Aikido, they experience a transformation in mind, body, and spirit.

New York Eastside Aikikai (NYEA), established in 2009, is affliliated with United States Aikido Federation (USAF), under the direction of Yoshimitsu Yamada Shihan, 8th Dan.
NYEA offers Aikido classes for adults and children. Adults will find the Aikido experience rewarding, as they achieve the ideal balance of physical and mental training. The training at NYEA is vigorous and intense.
Classes for children start at age eight and continue up to age sixteen. The kids class is energetic and playful, and attention to safety is paramount. As experience and understanding deepen, kids develop confidence and leadership skills, and they help others to grow. Aikido is a martial art, but it does not encourage fighting; the focus is on developing self-protection skills and finding peaceful resolutions.