Are you ready to learn aikido, but don't know where to begin? Are you intimidated by the unfamiliar terms or the powerful aikido techniques? With Aikido Basics you'll become an expert in this Japanese martial art in no time! Whether you are considering taking up this martial art, or you've already started, this aikido book offers an easy, yet comprehensive introduction to everything you need to know to feel confident and be successful. You'll learn about: The origins of aikido philosophy, history and different styles What really happens in an aikido class invaluable tips on choosing the right school, getting ready for your first class, and basic training methods The essential elements stances, strikes, grabs, throws, and pins How to complement your aikido training ki exercises, multiple-person training, and freestyle exercises Effective ways to succeed in aikido create a training program, test for belt promotion, and participate in competitions and tournaments Resources help further develop your aikido training.

Master the wooden weapons used in Aikido with this comprehensive martial arts training manual. Although aikido is often thought of as a nonviolent, noncompetitive martial art, the use of weapons was introduced by the art's founder O'Sensei Morihei Ueshiba. In fact, aikido techniques that use wooden weapons can enrich all aspects of your practice, helping you to understand both basic and advanced aikido technical tactics as well as conceptual strategies and skills. Building on the authors' belief that no empty-hand system is complete without weapons training, Aikido Weapons Techniques: The Wooden Sword, Stick, and Knife of Aikido demonstrates weapon use both as a training tool to better illustrate aikido principles, and as a self-defense against weapon attacks. It focuses on the three primary weapons used in aikido: Ken--the wooden sword Jo--the wooden staff Tanto--the wooden knife A complete discussion of each armament is included, with descriptions of the stances, grips, techniques, forms, defenses, and training appropriate for each. With over 200 step-by-step photographs and detailed instructions, this aikido book provides an in-depth exploration of weapons use in aikido--from its spiritual implications to technical theory and practical application.