Martial Arts
Alexandre Ottoveggio has also spent most of his life practicing martial arts, especially Aikido. For over four decades, Aikido has been an important part of his life, shaping the way he thinks, moves, and approaches challenges.
He began training at the age of 7 with his father, who was a high-level Aikido teacher. From a young age, Alexandre learned discipline, self-defense, flexibility, and self-control. He also studied how to develop and understand Ki, the internal energy that is central to Aikido. Over the years, he trained hard every day with his father in the dojo. Together, they took part in many demonstrations and events. His father had a background in Karate as well, and this also influenced Alexandre’s early training. Later, Alexandre continued with Aikido and also studied Iaido, the art of Japanese sword.
Martial arts was something the whole family took part in. His mother also reached a high level in Aikido, and his sister trained when she was young. Sadly, his sister passed away in a tragic accident in Paris. Even through hard times, Aikido remained a steady and important part of life for Alexandre and his family.
When Alexandre began working in films, his martial arts training helped him perform stunts and movement scenes more naturally and safely. The skills he developed through years of practice were useful in his film work, especially in action scenes.
Today, Alexandre continues to practice Aikido. It is still part of his daily life. From time to time, he teaches classes and shares what he has learned with others. For him, martial arts is not only about fighting or movement—it is a lifelong path that brings balance, focus, and personal growth.
Aikido is a martial art based on using the strength and movement of the opponent. It is known as a non-violent discipline, focused on harmony and control rather than aggression. However, in the event of an attack, Aikido can be very powerful, using specific key katas to neutralize threats effectively. The more one trains, the more they move beyond the technical aspects and reach a deeper, more spiritual and powerful level of understanding.
The creator of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba, dedicated his entire life to martial arts. Before developing Aikido, he practiced various other disciplines, including Karate and Kung Fu. He refined and practiced Aikido well into his old age, and his teachings continue to guide practitioners today. All Aikido students follow the path and philosophy of the master.
Alexandre was fortunate to begin learning Aikido at a very young age. This early start gave him the opportunity to grow within the art, developing both technical skill and a deep respect for its values.
Aikido is not a technique to fight with or defeat the enemy. It is the way to reconcile the world and make human beings one family.


Aikido in Your Daily Life – Simple Explanation
Aikido is a Japanese martial art that focuses on harmony, balance, and using an opponent’s energy instead of fighting with force. Even if you don’t practice it physically, its ideas can be used in everyday life.
Here’s how Aikido can show up in daily life, in regular, simple English:
Staying calm in tough situations: Aikido teaches you to stay relaxed even when things get intense. In life, this helps you handle stress, arguments, or pressure without losing your cool.
Avoiding fights: Aikido isn’t about hurting others—it’s about avoiding conflict or resolving it peacefully. In real life, this means not overreacting or pushing back when someone is rude or angry. You stay calm and try to understand instead of fighting.
Going with the flow: Instead of forcing things your way, Aikido teaches you to blend with the situation and move with it. In everyday life, this means adapting when things don’t go as planned and finding a way that works for everyone.
Respect and awareness: Aikido helps you become more aware of others and treat people with kindness and respect. It reminds you to be present, listen, and act thoughtfully.
Balance and posture: Good posture and balance are important in Aikido. In daily life, standing and moving with balance helps you stay confident, focused, and healthy.
So, Aikido isn’t just about Self-Defense—it’s a way of living that helps you stay calm, respectful, and peaceful in your day-to-day actions.
When the opponent comes forward, move in and greet him; if he wants to pull back, send him on his way.
Compassion and Respect
Even during training or conflict, an Aikidoka maintains respect for others, including opponents.
Techniques are designed to protect both the defender and the attacker.
Centering and Calmness
Aikido teaches the importance of staying centered and composed, both physically and emotionally.
The goal is to respond rather than react, staying balanced under pressure.
Self-Improvement
The true opponent in Aikido is the self—one’s ego, fear, or anger.
Continuous practice develops discipline, humility, and inner strength.