In a potentially dangerous situation, how can the confrontation be resolved satisfactorily whilst preserving the integrity of both parties as far as possible?
In a confrontational situation where an attack is imminent but has not yet begun (if it had begun, there would be a movement whereby the aikidoka would seek to synchronise with it), the aikidoka has the choice between ending the confrontation or provoking an attack from their opponent.
In the first instance, he will wait vigilantly or move away; in the second scenario, he presents the attacker with an attractive target: the aikidoka adopts an open stance, in which he exposes a hand, an arm or both, or even another part of his body, as a target for a hold, a blow or a stab.
An adversary genuinely determined to attack is unlikely to turn down such an ‘offer’, as they will be convinced – and this conviction will only be reinforced – that ‘one should only start a war if one is certain of being able to win it’.
The aikidoka can also use the initiative in movement as an additional strategic tool: by moving towards the potential attacker, the latter will most likely launch their attack immediately, as this reduces the time required to carry out their decision to attack, which they have already made.
The advantage here lies with the aikidoka, because, on the one hand, they are prepared for the attack, offer the attacker a target of their choice and, furthermore, determine the timing of the attack.
Despite this approach, the defensive nature of aikido is preserved, as offering an opening to an attack, just like taking the initiative towards a potential attacker, does not in itself constitute an offensive action. From the perspective of aikido, they serve to exert positive control over the situation whilst preserving the integrity of both parties.