Instead of using potentially crippling kicks or punches, the Aikido student learns to apply various wristlocks, arm pins, or unbalancing throws to neutralize aggressors without serious injury. This is the primary way in which Aikido differs from most other martial arts. Also, unlike most martial arts, Aikido is non-competitive.

The basic movements of Aikido are circular in nature. Most attacks are linear. The Aikido student physically blends with, rather than directly confronts, an aggressor's linear attack and converts it into a circular motion that renders the attacker helpless.

About half of Aikido's techniques involve joint locks which enable the attacker to be moved to a pinning position where he or she can be held without injury. Other techniques involve throwing the attacker. Much practice time is spent learning how to fall safely.

Because of the harmonizing quality of the movements, spectators of Aikido often comment on the dance-like, graceful quality of the movements. This harmonizing, with the energy (or "ki") of one's training partner, has the potential to transform the lives of aikido participants.