YoshinKan is a Japanese form of martial arts characterized by initiating attacks, body control and throws. There is a strong emphasis on pulling and pushing energy.

Yoshinkan is a style of akido that emphasizes correct form over correct timing, thus contributing to its image as a hard style. Heavy emphasis is placed on stance, basic movements, attention to distance, and balance. It is not a competitive style sport.

The goal of training is to provide students with a solid foundation of understanding the distinctive kamae, 6 kihon dosa, and 150 kihon waza in order to practice Yoshinkan properly. Students practice diligently to perfect these essential techniques.

Founded in 1955 by Japanese akido teacher Gozo Shioda, Yoshinkan is a style of akido akin to the Aki Budo technique practiced before World War II. In 1990, Shioda founded the International Yoshinkai Aikido Federation in order to facilitate the learning of Yoshinkan outside of Japan. Today, both the All Japan Yoshinkan Aikido Federation and the International Yoshinkan Akido Federation are now led by the founder's son, Yasuhisa Shioda.

Most dojos require some form of insurance to be able to actively participate in training. Also, real swords or knives are not used during training.

Yoshinkan emphasizes self-defense rather than open competition. Training for beginners follows a structured method that teaches students the 6 kihon dosa and 150 kihon waza. The kihon waza consist of elements such as an initiating attack, the applicable control, and whether the technique involves a pin or a throw. These techniques are further divided into Ichi and Ni techniques. Once students become proficient in the 150 kihon waza, they are able to move on and learn the remaining 3000 techniques. Also, particular attention is placed on mastering Yoshinkan's distinctive kamae, or stance.

Ichi Techniques - feeling of the energy moving away from your body

Kamae - posture or stance

Kihon Dosa - basic movements

Kihon Waza - basic techniques

Ni Techniques - feeling of the energy moving towards your body

Soke - headmaster

Uke - sparring partner

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoshinkan
http://www.kenshinkai.org.uk/