Aikido is performed by blending with the motion of the attacker and redirecting the force of the attack rather than opposing it head-on. This requires very little physical energy, as the aikidoka (aikido practitioner) "leads" the attacker's momentum using entering and turning movements. The techniques are completed with various throws and/or joint locks.

As a variation of Aikido, the Yoshinkan style is more akin to the prewar Aiki Budo techniques taught by O Sensei (Morihei Ueshiba), and therefore also generally closer to aikijujutsu than those styles of aikido developed post-war. There is an emphasis placed on correct form, balance, and timing rather than correct flow.