Information Portal 2009 by PCV

Have you ever wondered if what you know about Aikido is accurate? Consider the following paragraphs and compare what you know to the latest info on Aikido.

Due to the dynamic nature of Aikido, most experts say that there are no definite “styles” or “techniques” in practicing the martial art. After the development of aikido by Morihei Ueshiba, called “O Sensei,” many students were inspired to train under his tutelage.

After their training, the Great Teacher encouraged his students to put up their own dojos so they can spread the tenets of his martial art. Aside from encouraging them to set up dojos and share the knowledge he taught, he also inspired them to develop their own styles and interpretations as long as these techniques adhere to the basic principle of aikido, “not fighting force with force.”

The aikido founder reiterates this principle over and over again because the techniques of aikido, when applied without care, can damage or kill instead of diverting or immobilizing the opponent.

With the emergence of various dojos all over the world, more and more techniques were born. Despite the differences in techniques in various dojos, there is a set of the common techniques in which almost all dojos use. Each of this technique is carefully taught to the student so he or she can discover its strengths and weaknesses.

Although most people say that there should be no superior or inferior technique, only the student or the individual practicing it can truly tell which technique works well for him or her. Here is a list of the most common aikido techniques practiced by almost all aikido practitioners in dojos today:

1. “Ikkyo”. Also known as the “first technique,” ikkyo refers to the control exercised using only one hand on the elbow and the other one on near the wrist that leverages “uke” to the ground. This technique uses a grip that can apply pressure into the ulnar nerve on the medial side of the person’s arm.

2. “Nikyo”. This is referred to as the “second technique.” Nikyo involves the use of an adductive wristlock that loops the arm while applying painful nerve pressure.

Knowledge can give you a real advantage. To make sure you’re fully informed about Aikido, keep reading.

3. “Sankyo”. This is also called the “third technique.” Sankyo is known as a “pronating” technique that directs upward-spiraling pressure throughout the person’s arm, elbow, and shoulder.

4. “Yonkyo”. Is also popular as the “fourth technique.” Just like iikkyo, yonko is also a shoulder control but with requires the use of both hands in gripping the forearm. The practitioner’s knuckles?usually from the palm side?are applied to the opponent’s radial nerve against the forearm bone.

5. “Gokyo”. This refers to a variant of ikkyo where the hand that grips the wrist is inverted. Also known as the “fifth technique,” gokyo is common in tanto and other weapon take-aways.

6. “Shihonage”. Here, the practitioner’s hand is folded back past the shoulder and locks the shoulder joint. This aikido technique is also called the “four-direction throw.”

7. “Kotegaeshi”. This is popularly called the “wrist return.” This aikido technique is a characterized by a supinating wristlock-throw, which stretches the person’s extensor digitorum.

8. “Kokyunage”. In English, this is translated to “breath throw.” This term is coined for various types of flowing “timing throws” in duration of any aikido session.

9. “Iriminage”. For aikido practitioners, this is known as the “entering-body throw” or throws where “nage” moves through the space occupied by “uke.” This is considered as a classic form that resembles the “clothesline” technique.

10. “Tenchinage”. A.k.a. the “heaven-and-earth throw.” This technique involves the “uke” grabbing both wrists of the “nage.” Moving forward, the nage sweeps one hand low (“earth”) and the other high (“heaven”), so he or she can unbalance the uke.

When word gets around about your command of Aikido facts, others who need to know about Aikido will start to actively seek you out.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson, now offering Unlimited Reseller Hosting from $5/month

Aikido

Current info about Aikido is not always the easiest thing to locate. Fortunately, this report includes the latest Aikido info available.

Imagine walking home late at night when suddenly a group of people come out of nowhere and begin to surround you. The individual can cry out for help in the hopes that the locals will offer assistance or just give the money and hope that the hoodlums will leave after that.

But what if these people want more just than the money in the bag? The use of pepper spray or mace can probably knock two of the individuals out but something better is needed for proper defense. A good example is learning a martial art and if the person does not want to inflict that much damage, then aikido is the way to go.

What is aikido? This is a Japanese martial art just like Judo or Karate that uses primarily the arms to block offensive moves and then redirect it back with the same force to the opponent.

It is like catching a ball with one hand and then returning it back to another player. The moves are very fast which will surely amaze anyone who has seen one of Steven Segal’s action movies.

Aikido unlike other martial arts has been around since the 1930′s. As more students learned from the man who invented it, a number of dojo’s both in Japan and in other parts of the world were formed. This has also led to the development of different techniques in Aikido such as Aikikai, Yoshinkan and Yoseikan.

Practicing with a sparring partner and doing drills in the dojo is nothing compared to actual combat. This is the reason that the best way to stay in shape is to participate in a competition better known as Tomiki Aikido.

Aikido unlike other martial arts has not yet taken center stage in the Olympics. However, there are regular competitions organized by university clubs and local dojos in the community.

Is everything making sense so far? If not, I’m sure that with just a little more reading, all the facts will fall into place.

The competition just like in Karate, Tae Kwan Do or Judo is between two people. The player who successfully strikes the other opponent gets earns a point.

Aikido is a martial art that can be learned by almost anyone regardless of gender or age. All the person has to do is signup in a dojo, learn the basics and then practice regularly to develop better skills.

The individual may not get it right the first time or fall more often than others but everyone had to undergo the same thing in order to become a better fighter.

When the person is ready, it wouldn’t hurt to participate in Tomiki Aikido, which is held monthly in different states. The person should just see if there is anything on the bulletin board or online since certain clubs also announce such events on the web.

Aikido is primarily for defensive purposes. There are no sharp offensive punches or kicks normally associated with other martial arts. It can prepare anyone both physically and mentally to respond to various situations.

Self defense is something everyone needs to learn. Having a small knife or pepper spray can help bit if the odds are too many, then it is time to use hand to hand combat. An attack may not happen tomorrow or one week from now but the skills learned in Aikido will come in handy to be able to defend oneself against criminal elements and stop becoming a victim.

There’s a lot to understand about Aikido. We were able to provide you with some of the facts above, but there is still plenty more to write about in subsequent articles.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson, now offering Unlimited Reseller Hosting from $5/month

Aikido

With the visible convergence of East and West cultures, more and more people are discovering and rediscovering new means self-discipline especially in the field of martial arts. One of these means is called “Aikido,” a very popular Japanese martial art.

KNOWING AIKIDO

?Do not fight force with force,? this is the most basic principle of Aikido. Considered as one of the non-aggressive styles in martial arts, Aikido has become popular because it doesn’t instigate or provoke any attack. Instead, the force of the attacker is redirected into throws, locks, and several restraining techniques.
Since aikido uses very few punches and kicks, the size, weight, age, and physical strength of the participants or the opponents only partake only a small role. What’s important is the skilled Aikido practitioner is skilled enough to redirect his or her attacker’s energy while keeping him or her in a constant of unbalance.

The history of Aikido as a martial art can be traced when Morihei Ueshiba discovered and developed its principle of aikido. Known as “O Sensei” or the “Great Teacher,” Ueshiba made sure to develop a martial art that is based on a purely physical level using movements like throws, joint locks and techniques derived from another martial arts like “Jujitsu” and “Kenjutsu.”

Hopefully the information presented so far has been applicable. You might also want to consider the following:

Technically, aikido was stemmed out and developed mainly from “daito-ryu aiki-jujutsu” while incorporating several training movements similar to the “yari” or “spear, “jo” or a short “quarterstaff” and from “juken” or “bayonet”. Although these jujitsu movements are prominent while practicing the martial art, many practitioners agree that strongest influences of aikido is that of kenjutsu.

When he finally developed the minor and major principles of Aikido, Ueshiba emphasized that the martial art does not only pertain to self-defense techniques but can also play a major role in the enhancement of the practitioner’s moral and spiritual aspects eventually leading them to place greater weight on the development and achievement of peace and harmony. In fact, because of the great emphasis in the development of harmony and peace, seasoned aikido practitioners say that “the way of harmony of the spirit” is one phrase that could describe or translate the term “aikido” in English.

Just like any other martial art, aikido has various techniques that include ikkyo or the “first technique,” “nikyo” or the “second technique,” “sankyo,” or the “third technique,” “yonkyo” or the “fourth technique,” the “gokyo” or the “fifth technique,” the “shihonage” or the “four-direction throw,” the “kotegaeshi” or the wrist return, “kokyunage” or the “breath throw,” “iriminage” or the entering-body throw, “tenchinage” or the “heaven-and-earth throw,” “koshinage,” or the “hip throw,” “jujinage” or the “shaped-like-’ten’-throw,” and the “kaitennage” or the rotation throw.”

Although aikido is not about punching or kicking the opponent, it is not considered as a static art. It is still a very effective means of martial arts because it requires the aikido practitioner to use the energy of their opponent so they can gain control over them. When you will look at the martial art closely, you will realize that aikido is not only a means of self-defense technique but can also serve a means of spiritual enlightenment, physical health or exercise or a simple means of attaining peace of mind, concentration, and serenity.

Although different aikido styles gives great emphasis on the spiritual aspects to varying levels?some to greater or lesser degrees?the idea that the martial arts was conceptualized in order to achieve peace and harmony remains the most basic ideology of the martial art.

Take time to consider the points presented above. What you learn may help you overcome your hesitation to take action.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson, who just launched this List Building Guide, on how to build a 1000 member list in a month

Aikido

Martial Arts is one of the contributions of Asia to the world. Who can forget Bruce Lee and the fact that he was first and foremost a martial arts athlete before being a movie star? Even until now martial arts is still a big hit with the increasing popularity of Asian movies like crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon and more recently the House of the Flying Daggers.

The Chinese are the first people that come to mind when it comes to these things but the Japanese are just as athletic with a rich heritage of body contact sports that can be found in their history. The modern Japan still gives honor to these things by holding tournaments and promoting such sports abroad,

One of these is Aikido. It is interesting to note that the word comes from three Japanese words from which one can derive the meaning of the one word. Ai means joining, Ki means spirit and Do means way. From this we can understand why Aikido is beyond just the physical skills of it students especially sin its proponent Ueshiba focused more on the spiritual and philosophical development of his students.

In Aikido, one is not taught violence instead one is taught to be in harmony with the opponent to be able to defeat. This might seem odd but it actually works. In approaching an opponent, the aim of the Aikido practitioner is to be one with the opponent to be able to attack him where he is weakest and in doing so diver or immobilize him but never to kill.

It’s really a good idea to probe a little deeper into the subject of Aikido. What you learn may give you the confidence you need to venture into new areas.

This is where Aikido becomes an art. Art is something beautiful to watch and something positive and Aikido is all that. At least one of the people involved in the fighting strives for harmony and harmony can only be achieved if there is grace in the movements. The moves maybe calculated but there is an air of finesse in doing these movements, not a womanly finesse but just a finesse that emanates peace. The art of peace as what they call in Aikido is one of the most positive influences of Aikido to its students and to everyone who choose to know about this Japanese martial art.

Some of the techniques in Aikido include the following. Ikkyo is the first technique. Using this technique you control an opponent by using one hand in holding the elbow and one near the wrist, this action is supposed to make you pin your opponent down in the ground. Nikyo the second technique is when you do an adductive wristlock that enables you to twist the arm of your opponent that will in turn cause enough nerve pressure.

The third technique is Sankyo which is a pronating technique that directs upward-spiraling tension throughout the arm, elbow and shoulder. There are many other techniques but the first three should get you started.

In studying Aikido, it is important to remember that along with building physical strength to be able to defeat your opponent the mental capacity should also be developed. Just like in any art, it takes a lot of practice and discipline to perfect the art of Aikido. The important thing is the one who wants to get into the art should have determination to give honor to the art by performing it in the best way possible.

Take time to consider the points presented above. What you learn may help you overcome your hesitation to take action.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson (Click on the link to learn more about me)

Aikido

Among the various martial arts that have emerged over the years, Aikido is one of those that continue to gather more practitioners. Simply because more and more people believe that martial arts should not instigate attacks but should place great emphasis on motion and the dynamics of movement especially of the opponents’ and use it against him or her.

Having the basic principle of “not fighting force with force,” aikido has become popular and has been practiced in different parts of the globe today.

AIKIDO TEACHINGS CAUGHT ON TAPE

If you are interested in learning aikido but do not have the time to attend classes in dojos or you are short of cash to enroll in an aikido class, then purchasing an aikido video would be suitable for you. By buying several aikido videos, you can learn the basic principles of martial arts.

You can even learn the different aikido techniques and practice these in the comfort of your own place. Here are some of the most popular and reliable aikido videos available today.

1. The Essential Teachings of Aikido. This aikido video features Hikitsuchi Michio Sensei, 10th Dan, as he continues his life-long dedication to the “direct transmission” of Aikido he learned first-hand from the founder of Aikido, Ueshiba Morihei Osensei. This aikido video is a three-volume videotape series that is professionally produced with English-language voice-over.
Shot entirely on location at the Aikido Kumano Juku Dojo in Shingu, Japan, individual tape includes point-by-point technical instruction, exciting demonstrations, and spirited discussions of the foundations of Aikido. Volume 1 features Hikitsuchi Sensei as he teaches how to practice “instantaneous aiki,” while the Volume 2 shows Hikitsuchi Sensei teaching “kihon waza.” A set of the Essential Teaching tapes can be bought at around $170-190.

The best time to learn about Aikido is before you’re in the thick of things. Wise readers will keep reading to earn some valuable Aikido experience while it’s still free.

2. The heart of Aikido Volume 1 to 3. This set also features Hikitsuchi Sensei as he demonstrates how the movements of Aikido stemmed from the workings of the sword and the staff. He also the “aiki bojutsu” he learned directly from Osensei. More than half of the tape is dedicated to the demonstration of numerous Aikido techniques. This autobiographical video can be bought at around $60 ?80.

3. Practical Aiki-Do – Volume 1 to Volume 5. This series of aikido demonstrations is already in a DVD format. Compiled by Robert Koga, a former law enforcement instructor for LAPD and consultant for countless agencies in the US and across the globe, each individual volume is considered among the finest and most comprehensive works on Aikido.

Here, Sensei Koga takes the audience beyond the theory of aikido and takes them into the real world of practical Aikido by teaching techniques that can be used in everyday real-life situations. Each tape ranges from 50 minutes up to 56 minutes of playing and priced at $29.95 each.

4. Morihei Ueshiba: King of Aikido, Tape 1 to Tape 2. This series is also available in DVD format. The tape 1 and tape 2 of Morihei Ueshiba: King of Aikido present exciting historic video and features spectacular 1930s “pre-war” footage of aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba.
These tapes contain interesting collection of O-Sensei’s technique demonstrations. Playing time ranges from 60 to 65 minutes and can be bought at $24.95 each.

5. Aikido. This aikido video comes in DVD format. Compiled by Patricia Guerri, Aiki Bukikai 6th Dan, this video will lead the audience to the mastery of Aikido weapons. This aikido video comes on different languages such as French, English, Dutch, Spanish, Japanese, Arabian, and Hebrew.

It also divided into chapters, interactive menus, making of, photo gallery, certificates, and trailers as its Special Features. Playing time is approximately 85 minutes and can be bought in $29.95.

There’s no doubt that the topic of Aikido can be fascinating. If you still have unanswered questions about Aikido, you may find what you’re looking for in the next article.

About the Author
By Anders Eriksson (Click on the link to learn more about me)

Aikido

Have you ever wondered what exactly is up with Aikido? This informative report can give you an insight into everything you’ve ever wanted to know about Aikido.

Since the development of Aikido from the hands of its founder Morihei Ueshiba, it has gone through drastic changes. From the technique, practice, purpose, teaching, and training, Aikido is being interpreted in so many ways. Despite these glaring changes, the basic principle of Aikido still remains: a martial art that aims to achieve peace and harmony without instigating attack and force.

BEFORE YOU PRACTICE

If you are into aikido and already been enrolled in one of the classes, you must familiarize yourself with everything that you need to know about the martial art. You must realize that the practice of aikido starts once you have entered the “dojo” or the place where demonstrations, teachings, and training take place.

The aikido trainees are instructed and expected to exercise and observe proper etiquette at all times. Here are some guidelines for those you have just started exercising or training for aikido:

1. Attendance is important and a must. Indeed, the only way for you to improve in aikido is by attending regular classes and continuous training. Although attendance is not mandatory in most dojos, you better keep in mind that for you to learn and master aikido, you must be there when you have training so you wouldn’t miss any of the aikido teachings and trainings.

Most aikido practitioners suggest that for a student to advance in aikido, he or she should practice at least twice a week. Aside from not missing out something, attending aikido classes regularly can also help you cultivate self-discipline.

Now that we’ve covered those aspects of Aikido, let’s turn to some of the other factors that need to be considered.

2. Make your training your own responsibility. Just like in any martial art training, Aikido requires attention and dedication from you. And since you are the one who is interested in learning the martial, you should also be the one in-charge of your own exercise and training. Once you have decided to practice Aikido, it is given that you should be the one who is responsible for your proficiency and improvement.

Although instructors and senior students will be there to guide you, they wouldn’t be the one responsible for your improvement. So if you really want to improve in this martial art, make sure that you observe effectively before asking for any help and that you try to learn the techniques on your own first before you partake in any demonstration.

3. Bear in mind that Aikido training includes more than one technique. Aside from the physical demonstrations, training in aikido includes observation and modification of both physical and psychological patterns of the students’ thought and behavior. Since there are so many techniques to learn, an aikido student should be ready to react to circumstances so he or she can cultivate awareness.

4. Memorize the basic teachings and principles of the martial art. Aikido is known as one of the non-aggressive means of self-defense. That is why most aikido trainings involve cooperative activities.

In order to learn and excel in the martial art, you must be cooperative enough with your partner so you will both reap the benefits of aikido. Make sure that you’re careful when training and practicing aikido because some of the techniques can kill or damage when not practice judiciously.

5. Be prepared for anything and everything. Exercising, teaching, and training in Aikido is not simple. Because of the dynamic nature of the martial art, it can be very frustrating if you haven’t prepared yourself mentally, emotionally, and physically. Part of the training is learning to cope with frustrations that come along the training.

The best solution whenever frustration sets in is that the practitioner should observe what is or are the possible causes of this frustration and how can they overcome these challenges. They should avoid comparing themselves with others and continue improving their techniques.

Don’t limit yourself by refusing to learn the details about Aikido. The more you know, the easier it will be to focus on what’s important.

Aikido