Is Aikido really effective as self-defense?

Yes, though because it’s a purely defensive martial art, it may take longer to learn and apply technique effectively in the real world. Other good programs designed to quickly help people learn ways of surviving specific violent attacks (from knives, guns, etc.) are available, and this being New Orleans, we don’t discourage anyone from pursuing them.

Still, many Aikido principles can be brought to bear effectively in many real-world circumstances, including situations requiring physical self-defense. Greater situational awareness, remaining calm, moving purposely out of the line of attack, unbalancing attackers—all can be effective, but this is not the sole aim of practicing Aikido.