The techniques of Aikido are not new. On the contrary, they are based on ancient samurai wisdom perfected on the battlefield. What distinguishes Aikido from other martial arts, however, is its unique philosophical component. Aikido's Founder Morihei Ueshiba, known as O' Sensei, dedicated his life to the study of Bujutsu and the practice of spiritual rituals to purifying his mind. The combination of his intense physical and spiritual training ultimately gave birth to Aikido.