Aikido is very impressive, but competitive sports don’t apply here, because if two aikidoka faced each other, nothing would happen. There’s no attack in aikido; everyone would wait for the opponent to move. Of course, we learn how to throw punches in class, because that can always be useful, but our main focus is self-defense,” aikido sensei Sylwester Dudkiewicz tells us in this WEEKLY INTERVIEW. He also tells us how much aikido changed his life and why aikido classes are for everyone – from children to the elderly.
What is Aikido really?
[INTERVIEW OF THE WEEK] Sylwester Dudkiewicz: If someone wants to try it, there are no limits.
2025-10-30 14:30
„Aikido is very impressive, but competitive sports don’t apply here, because if two aikidokas faced each other, nothing would happen. In aikido, there’s no attack; everyone would wait for the opponent to make a move. Of course, we learn how to throw punches in classes, because that can always be useful, but our main focus is self-defense,” aikido sensei Sylwester Dudkiewicz tells us in the INTERVIEW OF THE WEEK. He also tells us how much aikido changed his life and why aikido classes are for everyone – from children to the elderly.
What is aikido really?
Sylwester Dudkiewicz: „Aikido is, above all, a martial art.” Unlike martial arts systems like Krav Maga, it’s also a whole environment that requires immersion. The name aikido means the path of body and mind. The idea is for the body and mind to align, resulting in an external effect. There are many varieties of aikido, each with a different approach to techniques. For example, the Kobayashi school doesn’t introduce new techniques; techniques have been unchanged and rigid for years. Other varieties try to adapt more to what’s happening. In the Fudoshin variety, the approach is more spiritual, almost religious. Generally, aikido uses the opponent and their energy to defend itself.
When did aikido come into your life?
– I wanted to try it a long time ago, when I first saw Seagal’s films. I really liked it, but back then, aikido was considered a bit of a cult, and there was some resistance in my family. It wasn’t until a priest in the TV series „Plebania” (The Presbytery) experienced aikido that everyone started to warm up to it. A friend took me to my first class, which was 25 years ago.
Are there any aikido competitions?
– No, the thing about aikido is that there are no sports competitions. We only meet at conventions and meetings where we can learn from others. Aikido is very impressive, but competitive sports don’t apply here, because if two aikidoka faced each other, nothing would happen. In aikido, there’s no attack; everyone would wait for the opponent to move. It’s not a demonstration martial art. Of course, we learn how to throw punches in class, because that can always be useful, but our main focus is self-defense.
Has there ever been a situation in your life where you had to use these techniques for self-defense?
– Since I started training, I’ve only had one situation where I could have used them. However, I think my external „ki” energy meant I didn’t have to in the end; luckily, everything fell apart. However, my friend was attacked after her third class, used leverage, and successfully defended herself. This proves that it’s effective, even after just a few classes.
Are aikido classes for people of all ages? When can you start training?
– In Germany, the average age for people starting aikido is over 60; there are no restrictions. It’s a martial art for gentlemen, and its calm approach and consideration make aikido attractive to older people. There are also known cases of people with cerebral palsy using wheelchairs performing aikido techniques, and people with disabilities can do the same. Aikido can also be used as a form of rehabilitation. In Japan, children practice aikido elements from the age of three. In Poland, until now, the belief was that it should start at 10-11 years old, but recently this has been shifting. You can conduct classes for younger children through play, learning mobility, and slowly introduce elements of aikido techniques throughout the entire experience. If someone just wants to try it, there are no restrictions.
What is needed for classes? A mat, clothing?
„Really, nothing is necessary; you can conduct classes on techniques that don’t require a mat or tumbling. Long pants are essential for the uniform, and you’re often on your knees during classes, so protection is necessary. We practice barefoot, barefoot, barefoot. Once someone gets more into it, they don a kimono with a white student belt. This belt is only exchanged after earning first dan for black belt. To earn dan, you have to pass an exam in dozens of techniques. Randori, or defense against an attack from multiple people, is also one of them. I’ve been preparing for three months for my second dan exam. I had to memorize the order of dozens of techniques, and I also had to prepare physically.
Do you think the aikido classes you run for children can be good motor preparation for other sports?
„I think so. Our classes include various movement games, learning falls and rolls.” All of this has a positive impact on children’s motor skills and coordination. This can later be applied to other sports. Perhaps swimming lessons are better preparation for physical activity. Adam Wasiak has already taught self-defense classes with elements of aikido, which have also been incorporated into physical education classes at schools.
Do you ever perform aikido demonstrations for external entities?
– Yes, sometimes we are invited to various events related to Japanese culture. Sometimes these are schools, companies, or organizations, where we are invited to showcase aikido as part of that culture. We have also been invited to the Japanese Embassy for demonstrations.
Have you been to Japan yet?
– I haven’t been, but I would love to. It’s unrealistic for me right now due to the costs, but if I can save up enough money, I’ll definitely go someday.
How many people around you know you practice aikido?
– My immediate family knows, of course, but I don’t think my extended family knows. Unless they’re following social media. It’s hard to recognize someone practicing aikido on the street. It’s only when something happens and someone uses aikido techniques that it becomes obvious. I can recognize someone who uses aikido techniques and who had something to do with it when I see them in action.
How much time do you spend practicing aikido and conducting these classes each week?
– It’s much more now, since the free classes at the Łódź Municipal Sports and Recreation Center, which I run for children of various ages, started. It can be about 10-12 hours a week.
Aikido training involves practicing combat techniques, but it’s also strength training.
– We try to utilize the opponent’s strength, so any special physical fitness isn’t required. We do strength training ourselves, but it’s not necessary or essential. A person attacked on the street won’t be warmed up, stretched, or prepared. We have to go with the flow. The point is to feel confident in every situation.
How much has aikido changed your life?
– I once thought about it… I think it gave me more peace in life and the ability to deal with problems. There’s no point in forcing everything. Sometimes you need that inner peace, reflection, and then you can find a solution. This aspect of „ki” makes me calmer; bad things seem to pass me by. My approach to people has also changed. I pay more attention to relationships.
Do you think it’s possible to suddenly stop at this stage? Or will aikido be with you for the rest of your life?
– I think once you get into it, it sticks with you. Even when I took a two-year break, I came back because it keeps you going. Anyone who starts aikido and experiences it firsthand knows that it works and is effective.
How do you find teaching classes with children?
– I think I’ve always strived for that, because I know that starting earlier increases the chance that these children will stick with aikido. When I started classes at the Łódź Municipal Sports and Recreation Center, I didn’t expect such a positive response. As soon as I earned my master’s degree, I felt we should start classes for children, and based on that, we could expand our section. These classes are essential for these kids, as even a few PE lessons a week isn’t enough for them.