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Course Syllabus

PE 1440 Aikido

  • Division: Social and Behavioral Science
  • Department: Physical Education
  • Credit/Time Requirement: Credit: 1; Lecture: 1; Lab: 1
  • Repeatable: Yes.
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Corequisites: None
  • Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring
  • Semester Approved: Spring 2020
  • Five-Year Review Semester: Summer 2025
  • End Semester: Fall 2025
  • Optimum Class Size: 15
  • Maximum Class Size: 25

Course Description

In this course students will develop skills and philosophical understanding pertaining to Aikido, a Japanese martial art that centers on ethical conflict resolution. Founded by Ueshiba Morihei, this unique self-defense system uses the force of an attack, gravity, weight distribution and momentum to unbalance and subdue an attacker. By redirecting the energy of an attack, rather than opposing the force, Aikido's techniques peacefully neutralize aggression. Aikido is an effective collection of martial techniques; however, it also incorporates philosophies involving non-aggressive spirit and harmonious daily living. This class is repeatable up to 2 times for credit.

Justification

Physical activity is an important component of lifetime health and wellness. Physical activity can lead to positive physiological and psychological outcomes. Obesity, cardiovascular disease, Type-II diabetes, osteoporosis and cancer risk may be reduced with physical activity. Physical activity has been identified as an effective antidepressant and treatment for depression. This class will provide access to physical activity for students enrolled.

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Develop a working knowledge of dojo etiquette, terminology, history and philosophy related to Aikido.
  2. Develop a basic proficiency in the execution of the covered Aikido skills and techniques.
  3. Develop their personal fitness as it relates to cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, balance, coordination and agility.

Course Content

In this course students will develop skills and philosophical understanding pertaining to Aikido, a Japanese martial art that centers on ethical conflict resolution. Founded by Ueshiba Morihei, this unique self-defense system uses the force of an attack, gravity, weight distribution and momentum to unbalance and subdue an attacker. By redirecting the energy of an attack, rather than opposing the force, Aikido's techniques peacefully neutralze aggression. Aikido is an effective collection of martial techniques; however, it also incorporates philosophies involving non-aggressive spirit and harmonious daily living.