Customer Reviews (2)

An Educated Man's Foundation for Aikido
This was written in 1961, after Koichi Tohei's first volume, "Aikido: The Arts of Self Defense" (1960).At that time, Tohei was Chief Instructor of the Aikikai.Later on because of politics, conflict, and all of that, Tohei formed his own organization, and for a while stopped using the term "Aikido" in favor of the term "Ki" (same as Chinese "Chi").

Tohei explains the principles of Aikido in plain easy to understand language. Included throughout are numerous photographs and illustrations.The inside portion of the book shows a stately Ueshiba Morihei Sensei (founder of Aikido), and a young Ueshiba Kisshomaru, as well as a young Tohei!

Principles such as ki, as well as a demonstration of 15 techniques explaining balance, rotation, physics, etc.Good chapters at the end about the history of Ueshiba Morihei Sensei and also Tohei Sensei. Earlier editions of this book were issued by Rikugei Publishing, the later paperback edition by Japan Publications, the same company that did Mas Oyama's What is Karate and Kazuo Kudo's Dynamic Judo, so the quality is definately there.

Handbook on Aikido
This is Tohei Sensei's second book. In the first chapter he teaches us what Aikido is. The 2nd chapter he explains Ki and then the one point. The rest of the book explains the technical side of Aikido, complete with photos.

Tohei Sensei takes us through each technique with both explanations and photo's. this is the best book on Aikido I have thus far read. Must be in ever library. ... Read more

Product Description
Aikido techniques stem from a harmony of body movement and "breath power" (kokyu-ryoku). Since its founding by Morihei Ueshiba, Aikido has become one of the most renowned martial arts in the world, teaching its practitioners the way of harmony as a spiritual path. With its rapid development in the postwar period, Aikido is now practiced by over a million-and-a-half people worldwide, of all ages and backgrounds. The two direct successors to the Founder have therefore compiled official course books to establish guidelines for the proper practice of the martial art.

Moriteru Ueshiba, grandson of the Founder, together with his late father, Kisshomaru Ueshiba, coauthored the widely acclaimed Best Aikido: The Fundamentals, a comprehensive training aid for Aikido students from beginner to advanced. In The Aikido Master Course: Best Aikido 2, Moriteru continues the legacy of his predecessors, providing the essential second volume authorized by the Aikikai Foundation, the central organization set up by his grandfather Morihei Ueshiba.

In this volume, Moriteru shows probably more techniques and their diverse applications than any previous Aikido textbook. Based on a thorough understanding of the principles taught in The Fundamentals, the basic techniques are given a broader application against a variety of armed and unarmed attacks and against more than one attacker. Many different kinds of pins are also illustrated in both their omote and ura forms, thus facilitating the study of Aikido techniques in a wide-ranging and varied manner.

The Aikido Master Course builds on the principles of entering (irimi) and turning (tenkan) combined with "breath power" taught in the first volume, providing the practitioner with step-by-step instructions that will enrich knowledge acquired in the dojo. Illustrated with over 1,100 photographs of the author demonstrating each technique, this will be an indispensable guide for students of Aikido who wish to deepen their knowledge of the techniques, which, in the words of the Founder himself, have "unlimited application." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

The Aikido Master Course:Best Aikido 2
The Aikido Master Course:Best Aikido 2 is a book for advanced students.The pictures are excellent, the descriptions are brief, to the point, and on a level for students who have already mastered the basics.Very easy to understand.I know of no other single book that shows so many different advanced-level techniques.This is part two.the Part 1 book, Best Aikido is a book for mid-level students.Together, they are probably the most comprehensive, exhaustive, current, authoritative references for Aikido.

Very good book.
This book is an outgrowth of an earlier work.It is well-illustrated, and produced by the bona-fide lineage of the Founder, which gives it a definite Aikikai slant (although this is not a bad thing). ... Read more

Product Description
In Aikido Sketch Diary: Dojo 365 Days, Gaku Homma introduces his readers to the annual round of events at the Nippon Kan dojo, where the new member has the opportunity to practice in daily activities the spirit of Aikido "beyond the mat." The section on uchideshi training describes goals and difficulties that lie along the path of any discipline. This book illustrates the basic Aikido belief that students learn and progress only by doing things for themselves. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A sideways approach to looking at life in the aikido dojo.
Of Gaku Homma's books that I have read so far, this is one of the best. The whole approach to life and the community that is fostered in many aikido dojos is reflected in practical terms. Homma's continued perceptionthat North Americans are unclear about Japanese traditions and hissometimes negative attitudes about fundamental human behaviour patterns issomehow frustrating for me. Still the book comes together as a series ofshort stories about his and his dojo's experiences while living andstudying in Colorado in a way that is humourous and enlightening. Whatcomes through is the success that can be found in community effort andpositive purpose. The illustrations are more professional looking than someof his previous works, and reflected the subject matter very nicely. Thisbook could be read by the aikido practioner or non-aikido practioner forideas on how to live in a society responsibly.

An informative approach to building aiki spirite in a dojo
I found Aikido Sketch Diary to have many practical ideas in how tocontribute in the transformation of spirite. As over a twenty year veteranof Aikido it was great to read of a dojo that is trying to intergrate thebest of both Japanese and American culture. I have never worked with SensiHomma or seen him but after reading his book I was impressed by what is inhis heart and only hope to have the chance to practice with. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

PROVEN Aikido Self-Defense +++
There are several softcover versions of "The Power of Aikido" -- with various cover colors and two different claimed authors, Thomas Makiyama versus Claude St. Denise. They are all identical in content. Considering the sensational title and more sensational book covers -- this little work is a good example of "not judging a book by its cover". "The Power of Aikido" is without much Japanese or metaphysical terminology -- yet the Japanese background history, religion, and philosophy leading up to Aikido is covered nicely in summary at the start of this work.

But where this work SHINES is via the VERY fluid, clear, sharp and COMPACT [line-drawings] illustrations and [plain-words] explanations of the "Exercises" -- which are precisely ordered via a numbered logic-tree based on self-defense attacks and counters. These "Exercises" appear to be much like VERY pre-modern Yoshinkan Aikido -- due to the VERY apparent Tenchi Tegatana [Heaven-Ground Hands-Sword] in the postures and patterns of movement [such as the "sword-holding" On-Guard on page 17 and after] -- as well as the VERY practical self-defense of the various exercises. These types of movements have been PROVEN from 1000 years of Japanese Civil Warfare -- to modern first-responder professionals thru-out the world -- and they DO show just how "gentleness can overcome the strong" +++ ... Read more

Product Description
After many years of dedicated training in the classical fighting arts, Morihei Ueshiba developed Aikido, drawing on the rich history of the martial traditions of Japan, and refining them into a wholly new system. In its relatively short history, Aikido has become one of the most renowned martial arts in the world, teaching its devotees the way of harmony as a spiritual path.

Moriteru Ueshiba, the grandson of Morihei, presents in this book, a systematic approach to mastering the basics of Aikido. He begins by outlining its most basic element—proper movement—and explains that with this as your base will you be able to approach the techniques in the correct order. He then goes on to emphasize a logical, step-by-step approach to mastering the techniques, so the student can progress toward Aikido's ultimate goals—forging of the individual spirit, and fostering harmony between oneself and nature, and the body and mind.

With PROGRESSIVE AIKIDO, Ueshiba offers a highly accessible, informative guide to the principles of Aikido, through meticulously detailed explanations and illustrative photos. It will be a valuable resource for the novice and advanced student alike. Though this book is aimed primarily at beginners, it is the author's wish that while it should help motivate beginners to absorb as much as possible from their masters, it will also inspire more advanced practitioners to maintain the desire to improve, as espoused in the words of founder Morihei himself: "Never cease forging your mind and body to refine your character through training—this is the first principle." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Great reference for studying Honbu-style Aikido
I study Honbu ("original") and Iwama style aikido, and I've purchased a number of aikido books, including Best Aikido and Kisshomaru Ueshiba's Aikido. I like all the books, but I keep going to Progressive Aikido for reviewing techniques. It's my favorite book for going over the things I've learned or am about to learn in class. Why? Because the photos are clear (photo quality is better than the other books, and it's easier to see the details), with many close-ups, and also photos from different angles for the same technique. There are many pointers along with the photos, with short and clear advice that makes you feel like you're taking an aikido class and the teacher is pointing out something to you. The other books don't include such detailed exposition of techniques.

Some people say, this book is redundant if you have the other books. Maybe this is true, in a certain way. Honbu-style changes a little bit over time, but the techniques are generally the same. They are tried-and-true. However, this is in fact the latest book from the heart of Honbu-style aikido from the head of aikido, who is the grandson of Morihei Ueshiba; so it is best not to take lightly the efforts of someone who has lived and breathed aikido all his life. So what is the contribution of this book? I'd say the detailed but succinct descriptions and advice which makes the book not just a reference manual but also an instruction manual (for both teachers and students). It is clear that in the book the author addresses key points and issues that he must have noticed students having to learn (or fix) all the time. Also, this is the first book in English (as far as I know) by Moriteru Ueshiba himself only (Best Aikido was a collaboration between father and son), so although Honbu-style is meant to be the "original style" and not really changeable, per se, I think each new doshu inevitably brings his own perspective and points of emphases, etc., and we can read with interest here the perspective and style of the current doshu.

In summary, I'd say, unless you're studying a rather different style of aikido (e.g., yoshinkan), this is a book definitely worth having. Especially if you're an earnest student of aikido who wants to make sure to get the techniques right, and would enjoy getting some pointers and advice from the doshu himself, via the printed page.

It's a nice book, but I was hoping for more.
Quality photography and construction.Well formatted, but the content is similar to previous books by this author, the current head of the largest Aikido organization in the world, and grandson of the Founder.I guess I was just expecting his latest book to be more comprehensive and telling.It's still a good read, although a much better value at the Amazon price than the cover price.

Beautiful beginner's book on Aikido
I bought this book after comparing it with other similar books, including "Best Aikido" by this book's author & his father.I decided to buy this one because the photography was far better, and much of the presentation struck me as more clear and detailed.

So, any criticism of this book as old wine in a new bottle should be taken with a grain of salt.For someone already experienced in Aikido and owning introductory books, this new one probably has little to offer.However, my sense is that it's not an attempt merely to grind out a new book to sell which is really just old material.Rather, it seeks to present its material in a clearer, more accessible format.That is why I chose it as my first book of basic Aikido technique.

True, what this book says about Aikido philosophy is very brief.But that is such a large and important topic that one would do best to buy separate books devoted to that topic (as I have already).

So, if you want a well-illustrated manual on the basic techniques of Aikido, I find this is an excellent choice.

From fundamentals to basic techniques to applied skills
The Ueshibi family as continued the Aikido tradition founded by Morihei Ueshiba, handing down the lessons learned from O-sensei and presenting his art and philosophy to a greater world audience. This book, "Progressive Aikido," was written by his grandson Moriteru Ueshiba.

"Progressive Aikido" is essentially a workbook for those who are beginning their journey down the path of Aikido.There is very little of the Aikido philosophy, which can be found in other works such as ""The Art Of Aikido: Principles And Essential Techniques." Instead, it lays out techniques in a progressive, logical pattern starting with the fundamentals and going up to more advanced skills.

The emphasis on fundamentals and basic moves makes "Progressive Aikido" a solid reference for new students, enhancing the lessons learned in an Aikido class.No one is ever going to learn a martial art from a book, but it helps to check yourself against the pictures and get a glimpse into future techniques.

Those who have an extensive Aikido library will probably find "Progressive Aikido" redundant.The Ueshiba family has been very prolific in bringing Aikido to the world, and there is an impressive amount of books available.However, for those who are just beginning to practice the art, there is plenty of useful information and a solid framework around which to build their skills.

Definitive work on mastering Aikido
Moriteru Ueshiba is the grandson of Morihei Ueeshiba, the Japanese master who developed Aikido, one of the most renowned martial arts in the world.Moriteru Ueshiba is Aikido Doshu and chairman of the International Aikido Federation.

The most important and fundamental element in Aikido is proper movement based on the principle of circular motion where the center remains stable (as in a spinning top). This new volume has explicitly detailed explanations of the movements accompanied by hundreds of clearly illustrated photos.

In Aikido, self-defense is equated with presence of mind, and the practice of the art is a path to harmonybased on the integration of the mind and the body.It is not a competitive sport.

This latest publication by Moriteru Ueshiba will be valuable not only for the novice but for the advanced practitioner as well. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Title says it all.
This book was supervised by no other than Koichi Tohei, and it shows. It focus' on not only the body and techniques, but on development of the mind as well. This book has two parts: Unification of Mind and Body, and Shin-Shin Toitsu Aikido Techniques. Waza are well illustrated and explained. A great addition! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Perfect for Fugakukai students
I agree with the early reviews. I just wanted to let everyone know that there is a cheaper paperback version available on Amazon.

A supplement to my Aikido training
This book was very detailed from beginning to end pertaining to the basics of Aikido.I am currently studying Aikido/Judo (3 months now) under the instruction of Sensei Henry Copeland.This book by no means replace the instructor in learning this fine art but only aids to help further ones training.A good, informative book which anyone in Aikido should read.

p.s. now to finish Sensei Geis's "Twelve Winds"

A good book.
This book is a good reference text for students of the Geis interpretation of the Tomiki System of Aikido.It looks like it would be useful to members of not only Fugakukai, but also Jiyushinkai & any other organization that uses "the Walk," the 8 hand releases/blends, the Basic 17 & the Big 10.I deducted a star because the line-drawings do not always match the text descriptions of individual techniques.

May also be of interest to Shodokan members.

Overall, a good book.

Aikido : Principles of Kata & Randori
This book is excellent in technically illustrating some of the more subtle techniques of Aikido, and the budo aspect of Aikido in randori. Much of the Kenji Tomiki's earlier traditional training under founder, Morihei Ueshiba, prior to WWII can be observed in the techniques and in the terminologies used. Most Aikidoists, with over 30 years of experience will appreciate and remember fondly some of the older and more familiar techniques, as well as the original terminology used here. I know, I do.

Overall, Nick's book is an excellent manual for the introducing beginners to Aikido concepts and structure. It also makes good reference material for those serious Aikidoists that would like have more of an expanded education into Aikido, and its roots.

What I've been looking for!
I've been training in Aikido for almost a year and have been looking for a good, single reference to help me remember the order of specific techniques, etc. in the Karl Geis school.Finally, I've found it.I alsoenjoyed the training perspectives for both teacher and student, as well asthe section on randori.It is well written and thought-provoking. ... Read more

Product Description

The first thing that that this book promises is that it makes no promises. Instead, it invites the reader to re-consider and to re-value his views and priorities about life, motivating him to become a promising person. Not just by reading this book, but through practice.

Customer Reviews (3)

The book in between
If you're looking for a technical martial arts book, then "The Book In Between" is not what you are looking for.
On the contrary, this remarkable book offers a theoretical analysis of the most important aspects of life, from simple "daily routine" subjects,to more philosophical and esoteric ones, from the perspective of an Aikido teacher.
I must confess that in the beginning I was quite reluctant of reading a book of this kind, written by someone who refuses to refer to his background and rank in martial arts. I thought "who is this guy anyway?" That is, of course, until I saw the pictures! In these black and white photos, the author is demonstrating a series of very impressing Aikido techniques, some of them rarely seen nowadays.
As for the text, the author develops his point of view and ideas in various subjects such as nutrition, sex, money, ethics, etc. He is also daring to "touch" sensitive personal and social matters such as religion, politics and death, without neglecting martial subjects such as the Japanese sword, chain of command and how a martial arts' school is to be run.
His opinions, no matter how strict and cynical they may seem are surely reflecting the way of the warrior in modern, daily life. Whether you agree or disagree with him, you will find his ideas quite objective and very down to earth, not at all driven by some sort of fanaticism.
The "vehicle" the author uses to get us to his point is a very "original" writing style (one that sometimes looks like poetry) with a lot of proverbs.
Although you will probably need to read the book more than once to get to the point, it is a "must" at your private library.
By the way, this guy also has a site (marioaikibook.com)
Check it out!

Herman-Matthias Schenker (Mechanic)
Berlin

Our personal Ithaka

Our personal Ithaka

Homer's Odysseus, after twenty years itinerancy, returned to Ithaca, filled with experiences and knowledge. He fought bravely in the Trojan war, faced Cyclops and Lestrigons, escaped from angry Neptune, and did not get lost in the Faiakas island. Ithaca was not for Odysseus just a destination, but the main reason for the outward journey to life and knowledge.
The author of "The Book In Between" calls us on a journey with him, through AIKIDO, a Japanese martial art. He wishes the reader not to be just a passenger on the boat, the plane or the spacecraft, but the Captain, something extremely difficult.
So this book stands between us and our personal Ithaca. A book that can be read more than once, and still feel like the first time.
"Bon Voyage" and don't be in a hurry to finish it. The further the travel holds, the richer the experiences and knowledge acquired.
Just like Odysseus...

Delis Taxiarchis
MBA Kobe University JAPAN
TEI of Piraeus, Greece

Save your cash...
Sorry, but this book REEKS.Although I'm sure the author spent considerable time writing this ponderous volume (most of it in a delusional state, probably), it is an enormous, overpriced collection of disjointed, preachy, and largely irrelevant thoughts.There was just no understanding it.It's the worst Aikido book I have ever seen, and the only reason I gave it 1 star was because Amazon wouldn't let me give it a ZERO. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

great place to start a study of martial arts, or to add to your toolbox
This guy is a seminal martial arts teacher. And an early exponent of mixed martial arts!

I have purist martial arts expert buddies who sneer at him because his technique isn't the same as the technique taught in their styles. Or because he doesn't teach obviously vicious and death-dealing techniques.

Well, too bad!

What they don't understand is that Tegner was writing to a civilian population in a relatively safe, law abiding world, where most guys were going to deal, at worst, with some bullying and a challenge to "take it outside". He was not, in this book, preparing guys to be commandos or inner-city cops.

Tegner knew that most of the people who read his books were not going to spend ten or twenty years in a dojo learning techniques that had only some application to the real world.

Tegner was a serious judo guy. He'd studied all his life. And judo guys aren't sissies; they call it the gentle way, but when a judo guy hits you with the biggest weapon around (the planet Earth) it doesn't feel very gentle. And you can get seriously hurt in judo if you aren't lucky.

He'd also studied broadly, and had a good knowledge of what techniques were available for hand to hand combat of all sorts, including military hand to hand.

He made intelligent choices of techniques that laymen without a lot of time to spend on training could practice to improve their chances of surviving a fight.

If you are a beginner to martial arts and want to read an author who has balanced ease of use, length of practice to proficiency, and likelihood that the techniques will send you to Sing Sing after the fistfight, this is a perfectly good place to start.

Bear in mind that no book can teach you to fight, and that you'll need to practice with a partner (very carefully and under competent supervision) and on a bag. Also bear in mind that the laws of self defense differs between jurisdictions.

In any case, buying all the Tegner books there are and reviewing the sorts of tricks he teaches is a perfectly good way to begin a study of self defense.

And I give this guy five stars partly because of the cost to technique ratio!

Self defense
Very easy to use techniques for self defense.Bruce Tegner combines best of all self defense styles and demos them for the average person. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Good Ideas to keep the kids interested.
Has some helpful exercises for those teaching kids.A bit difficult to find copies of this book for sale, however.

a good source book
I found this book helpful in identifying games and philosophy for teaching my kids Aikido.It is not a complete approach.You will still have to develop your own curriculum to balance their formal learning of aikido,with keeping them engaged and enjoying the process. ... Read more

Product Description
With its message of universal harmony, the martial art of Aikido is attracting an ever-expanding number of followers all around the world. There are now 1,600,000 Aikido practitioners in 90 different countries. The Heart of Aikido: The Philosophy of Takemasu Aiki focuses on the human values and promotion of peace that legendary founder Morihei Ueshiba believed were at Aikido's core. Takemasu Aiki means, "the life-generating force capable of unlimited transformations," an idea that serves as the spiritual foundation on which Aikido rests.

The book, translated into English for the first time, draws on the essence of the founder's philosophy and spirituality, which was based on the Shinto religion. It presents such tenets as:the importance of harmony in the martial arts, the ultimate promotion of peace by dispelling any aggression through such harmony, and the divinity of the true self and the universe.

The Japanese version of the book holds a special place in the hearts of Aikido practitioners; the English-language edition has been eagerly awaited and is sure to be greeted with great excitement. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

What a wonderful gift...
O Sensei gave us many things and the most wonderful is his understanding of what it means to live, breathe and be in harmony with the energy or ki of the universe that is aikido and which is well expressed in this short work by John Steven Sensei.

For those who have a true interest in Aikido and not simply the often too common Western ideal of the mere physical techniques, this is one of the works you should include in your library.

namaste

Great book on O-Sensei's philosophy
This book is an important documention of the spiritual beliefs of O-Sensei.While one reviewer has stated that it is esoteric and difficult to understand,I think this has to do with the style of Ueshiba's presentation rather than the actual translation.For those of us who want to gain some understanding of Ueshiba's philosophy but are not planning to do years of graduate studies on Japanese religious traditions, this book is a great resource.

I gave this book four stars because I personally would have preferred a more exact translation with footnotes explaining obscure references.However, John Stevens' goal has always been to make the spiritual beliefs that lay at the foundation of aikido accessible to everyone, and I believe this book does a good job of this.There has been a long debate about the importance of spirituality in aikido, and I think this explains O-Sensei's point of view on the matter.

This book does not contain any overt discussions of waza, so if you are looking for the best angle to bend your elbow to get a good shihonage or how much weight to put on your front foot v. your back foot, this is not the book for you.

Might Appeal to the Esoteric or Advanced Practictioners
The title term "Takemusu Aiki" requires a paragraph of definition, including meanings varying in subtlety from "the life-generating force capable of unlimited transformations" to "the boldest and most creative life possible," the potential interpretations of each teaching can spin out into the realm of the infinite. If such an approach appeals to you, you might gain from this work.

Certainly if you are a disciple of O-Sensei it has value.Likewise if you are a fan of John Stevens.And while I enjoy many works by John Stevens, and I am a admirer of O-Sensei, this is presented in a manner that seemed laborious rather than insightful.Of course I realize some will say that's part of the journey.And for them this might be an enjoyable addition.

I would have preferred more entries such as O-Sensei reminding us that "I can explain and explain aikido, but in order to understand what I am saying, a person needs to practice, to experience aikido. Practice first, and then listen to explanations."

For those reasons, I personally found works such as the concise and inspirationalThe Art of Peace - by the same team - to be a better value.

Fortunately, for Art of Peace, Amazon allows you to look inside.I wish I had been able to do so with this work.It is unlikely I would have purchased.

If you want a complete set of the works of O-Sensei and/or Stevens - then consider it.But for wisdom that enlightens more than frustrates this isn't it.No doubt, some will feel the frustration interpreting this text is precisely the goal.From it comes enlightenment - or at least further development of the self.For those it might be a welcome addition.

Certainly different people learn different ways.To put it politely, this is one best left to the advanced student.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Outstanding
I am fortunate enough to own an excellent set of these 5 hard to find books.They do a great job of showing the basic technique as taught by Saito Sensei after the death of O-Sensei.Highly recommended. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

A Must-Have
Shimizu Sensei's beautifully-done book is a necessary addition to any serious aikidoka's library. The photos nearly move, they so illustrate his large, powerful movements. It is really a loss that he has never been well known in the USA, and we have had to travel to Nippon and the EU to train with him. Check his videos on YouTube, which show his technique, albeit without the well-translated explanation the book offers.

Excellent Instructions with Great Illustrations!
This is a great book on Aikido by none other than one of the students of the originator of the martial art himself.I was fortunate enough about 7 years ago to have my copy autographed by the great Shimizu himself when he came down for a short visit and trained with us in the dojo for about an hour.He is such a humble and personable man too.Recommended.

A wonderful book for those who train and those who don't
I have owned this book for seven or eight years. I bought it when my Aikido training was extremely intense...training 6 days a week for 2-3 hours at a time. While my training was mainly confined to that of United States Aikido Federation-Western Region (Chiba Shihan and Okuyama Senseai), I had occassion to see and learn from several of the leading US-based and some Japan-based Shihan at various seminars. Unfortunately, it seems that Shimizu Sensei does not have a strong presence in the US. I would love to see and tryhis style of Aikido From his book you can see that his Aikido is powerful and flowing with large movements. The photos and sequences in The Heavenly Road are fantastic. Of the numerous Aikido Books in my collection this is my favorite.

A beautiful documentary of Tendokan Aikido
This large, well illustrated book is an excellent pictorial of Tendokan Aikido, taught by Kenji Shimizu.Tendokan Aikido is well known in parts of Europe (Germany) and Japan, but is little known elsewhere in the world.

Tendokan Aikido is characterized by large flowing movements, has some very interesting variations that are somewhat unique in my experience of Aikido over the past 9 years. Kenji Shimizu Sense was one of the last of the Aikido HombuDojo uchideshi, entering the Hombu Dojo in 1964.During this final phase of O'Sensei's life, Shimizu Sensei was known as O'Sensei's favorite uke. That alone makes this book worthwhile, as for students of Aikido, this book is a definitive documentary and entertaining pictoral of this important uchideshi's Aikido style and philsophy.

The book illustrates in large panoramic pictures, the basic Aikido techniques as practiced in Tendokan style.You'll be able to see some of the interesting stylistic variations that Shimizu Sensei's large circular powerful flowing movements produces.

For any practioner of Aikido, these variations will entertain you and give you additional ideas about what is possible in Aikido.The quality of the photos and print is of high quality and the sequences are easy to understand and follow from a reader's standpoint.

I was a student of Tendokan Aikido during my time in Hong Kong during 1996 and 1997 and wrote this review in thanks for my time there, and to point out Shimizu Sensei to those of us in the USA;at this point it seems unlikely that Shimizu Sensei has any students here in the USA who would ever bring him here to teach.

"The Heavenly Road" employs photographic detail
Kenji Shimizu's "The Heavely Road" utilizes detailed photographsshot at interesting angles to shed light on aikido's most dynamictechniques. The neophyte and the serious practitioner, alike, will continuelearning about the many nuances of this most subtle martial art even afterreviewingthe same techninque, many times. Photographs taken from aboveare particularly useful. Severalpractitioners of aikido whom I sharedthis book with later bought their own copies. I highlyrecommend "TheHeavenly Road." It is one of my two favorite books that deal with theart of aikido. ... Read more

Product Description

Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969) drew on his extensive martial arts experience as a young man, fusing this knowledge with his deeply-held religious beliefs, to create the modern self-defense art of Aikido.

During his long career, Ueshiba associated with some of prewar Japan's most colorful characters, including famous jujutsu master Sokaku Takeda, the charismatic religious leader Onisaburo Deguchi, and numerous members of Japan's military, political, and business elite. Here is the captivating story of the birth of aikido, based on the first-hand accounts of Ueshiba's top students prior to World War II.

The interviews contained in "Aikido Pioneers - Prewar Era" have been meticulously edited from hundreds of hours of conversations conducted over a 30-year period with those closest to the Founder. These early devotees of the art offer an insightful portrayal of the character of the Aikido Founder, and a detailed description of his teaching and activities, spanning nearly half a century. More than 100 photos, many published for the first time, add an important visual dimension to the testimonies of the interviewees. This is an essential volume for those desiring to discover the roots of Aikido, a true cultural treasure of Japan.

About the Author: Stanley Pranin is a 5th degree aikido black belt, and Editor-in-Chief of "Aikido Journal," formerly known as "Aiki News." An avid historian of Aikido, Pranin has lived in Japan for more than 20 years conducting research into the art, especially the life and work of Aikido Founder Morihei Ueshiba. He is the author of "The Encyclopedia of Aikido," and hundreds of articles written about every aspect of this Japanese martial art.

Customer Reviews (3)

Reach Out and Touch O-Sensei

REACH OUT AND TOUCH O-SENSEI

A Review of Aikido Pioneers Pre-War Era
Interviews by Stanley Pranin
Published by Aiki News-2010
356 pages

Review by Robert Noha


Introduction

Like the 1950 Akira Kurosawa film Rashoman, which shows multiple perspectives of the same event, this book of interviews provides 20 unique perspectives on the life and teaching of Morihei Ueshiba, founder of Aikido.The interviews were conducted by Stanley Pranin, editor in chief of the Aikido Journal.

The interview subjects range from his son and successor Kisshomaru Ueshiba and nephew Yoichiro Inoue to Tenryu, a famous sumo wrestler, and four students who founded their own systems of Aikido:Gozo Shioda; Kenji Tomiki; Koichi Tohei and Minoru Mochizuki.

This book is a priceless opportunity to learn about the life, times and teaching of the Aikido founder.It is especially valuable in that it provides details of the critical era before the Second World War when Aikido was becoming the art it is today.

Aikido Pioneers is a valuable addition to three recent books that also focus on O-Sensei and his teachings.The first is a biography of O-Sensei, A Life in Aikido by his son Kisshomaru.The other two are translations of lectures by O-Sensei done by John Stevens:The Secret Teachings of Aikido and The Heart of Aikido.

Interview Excerpts

The interview with O-Sensei's nephew Yoichiro spans a period of O- Sensei's life from the early 1900s when they practiced Judo together, until the mid-1930s.Like the rest of the book, it provides multiple perspectives as a family member, fellow practitioner and student/assistant in the very early days of Aikido.

Of great interest are interviews with two well known students sent from the Kodokan Judo Headquarters by Judo founder Jigoro Kano:Kenji Tomiki and Minoru Mochizuki.

Tomiki's perspective is one of a university professor interested in adapting the teachings of O-Sensei to that of a modern competitive art.

Mochizuki shares fascinating stories about Judo Founder Jigoro Kano and 10th Dan Judo master Kyuzo Mifune as well as his experiences with O-Sensei.

Interviews with several pre-war students, who did not continue their training after the war, provide a perspective much like the majority of students today who practice for a limited period rather than a lifetime or to become an instructor.

There is one emotionally powerful interview with Shigemi Yonekawa who is one of the ukes in the 1935 Asahi News Film.He explains his reason for discontinuing his training:

Aikido Journal:In other words, it was not a matter of your doubting Ueshiba Sensei's techniques, but rather a question of whether or not you could reach that level yourself.

Yonekawa:That's right.There was a mysterious, infinite power in what Ueshiba Sensei had, although "power" is a misleading term.There are various levels among human beings.Ueshiba Sensei's level was different.He had a power which naturally caused one to bow one's head when standing before him.How do you develop this kind of thing?I didn't understand that level of training.

Another interesting area are stories about O-Sensei's incredible level of skill as a martial artist.

One example is provided by Tenryu, a famous sumo wrestler, who encountered O-Sensei at a martial arts demonstration in Manchuria.

Aikido Journal:Would you describe how you first happened to see Ueshiba Sensei?

Tenryu:Ueshiba Sensei said, "since you are all martial arts practitioners, if there is a man among you, come and test this old man"...I thought this old man was talking nonsense, and slapped his hand down as I grabbed it.But the moment I touched him I was startled.I felt as if I had taken hold of an iron bar.Of course...I immediately knew I had been defeated...and I fell down.

Tenryu went back to Japan with O-Sensei and trained with him for several months.

A second example is told by Kiyoshi Nakaura, who was for a time, O- Sensei's son in law and designated successor.

Aikido Journal:We understand that Haga Sensei (a kendo colleague of Nakakura's) tested Ueshiba Sensei on one occasion.

Nakaura:Yes...we both went to attack him, but we were thrown before we even grabbed him.Then we realized that what Mr. Ueshiba was doing was genuine.

Another area of great interest are stories relating meetings with Sokaku Takeda and Onisaburo Deguchi, the two biggest outside influences on O-Sensei and the development of Aikido.

This humorous encounter is also told by Kiyoshi Nakaura.

Aikido Journal:Can you tell us something about Sokaku Takeda Sensei?

Nakaura:Sokaku Sensei came to visit him (O-Sensei) at the Kobukan...I heard something that sounded like an argument...and went out of the dojo to find Takeda Sensei pushing a taxi driver into the gutter!It seems the driver had said something about money to Sokaku Sensei and so Sokaku got mad at him and pushed him into the gutter.So I apologized and paid the driver...

Gozo Shioda describes his view of the relationship between O-Sensei and Onisaburo Deguchi:

Aikido Journal:Did Ueshiba Sensei revere Onisaburo Deguchi as a divine being?

Shioda:Yes, he did...Ueshiba Sensei thought that he owed his power to Onisaburo Deguchi.

There is also a fascinating interview with a woman student, Takako Kunigoshi, who drew the illustrations for one of O-Sensei's books-Budo Renshu.

In this exchange she describes working on the book Budo Renshu:

Aikido Journal:Did Ueshiba Sensei cooperate in preparing the book?

Kunigoshi:Yes...while we were working on the drawings, Sensei looked at them and gave them his personal approval...Ueshiba Sensei said "if you're going to make a book of it, you have to do it properly."

Summary

This book offers its readers a fascinating look at the founder of Aikido and its history by people who were there.It provides a multi-dimensional picture of O-Sensei by students from all walks of life.

It also gives people training in Aikido today a link to students who came before us.

The front and back covers are beautifully done with a large picture of O-Sensei and smaller ones of all the people interviewed.The design is by graphic artist Joao Tinoco.

Stanley Pranin deserves our gratitude for offering this window on Aikido history, as almost all of the people interviewed have passed away.Without his efforts their stories would be lost to us and future generations of Aikido students.

there is no other such source
Stan Pranin has divided his aikido career between practice and researching its historical background. He is probably the only person to have met and talked with so many of the "old timers", and here is one of the fruits of his efforts. If you have moved beyond a superficial curiosity about aikido, or if you wish to expand your perspectives beyond one teacher and one style, Pranin sensei is your source. This is an important addition to his work. I won't try to go into detail here, but while Morihei Ueshiba, O Sensei, was widely recognized for his martial prowess in the pre-war era, Japan was full of excellent martial artists. What quirk(s) of fate brought O Sensei to such international prominence that Americans (British, French...) now study his art? What have we (almost) lost in the process? This is one of the few places to look.

Invaluable resource...
If you are interested in learning about the history and important characters behind aikido in its formative years, then you need this book.Nobody, and I mean NOBODY, has amassed more material on this subject than Stanley Pranin, and much of this would never be heard or passed on without his important work.This book is a LOT of bang for the buck.An unbiased and emphatic double thumbs-up... ... Read more

Product Description
Featuring two of the most senior instructors in Britain and one of their American students as Authors, Positive Aikido has it all. If you're a martial art enthusiast or practitioner, this is one book you have got to have in your library. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

It's about time.
This is a well written piece that gives enough explanation, and a good historical background of the school. Great Job Dave!

hard stuff
this is really a very good direct way to talk about aikido
its no nonsense stuff and to the point
i like it very much and tell you one off the best books about aikido you can buy

Positive Aikido Review
Contents of the book is very good and gives a nice overview about the things that matter about aikido. If you are just starting aikido this will help you understand more the meaning of certain key elements.
Only the way the book is made, I find very unsatisfying. It looks like it has been copied with a xerox machine, this looks very cheap considering the price you have to pay.

Very Impressed!
As an Aikido student for many years I have read many books on the art,trying to get a better understanding of what I am practicing. Most every book that I've read on the subject reads like a fortune cookie, which makes it hard to keep my eyes open. I want to thank Sensei Ellis, Sensei Eastman and Senei Rogers for writing a book on Aikido technique that doesn't require the use of a thesaurus. The book's no nonsense approach and plain English makes it an easy and enjoyable read.
This book should be on the shelf of every Aikido student, seasoned or beginner.

Fun, interesting, insightful and very readable
I have read a heard a few people say the have mixed feelings about this book and I think like everything else it boils down to taste and preference.

The people involved in the book Dave Rogers Sensei 3rd dan, Henry Ellis Sensei 5th dan and Derek Eastman 5th dan have an wealth of experience between them so it is safe to say they've "been there, done that and now written the book".

Being a student myself I love nothing more than hearing all the old stories, just as my father used to talk about the old footballers in the days when wearing gloves during a match would result in a hailstorm of abuse, and that's just from their own teammates. And Positive Aikido has an abundance of great stories from the early days of Aikido in Britain.

The book is divided into four categories Spirit, Mind, Body and The element of tradition. Spirit looks at a number of issues including movement, relaxation and discipline to name just a few and they are explained in a manner, which cuts to the chase. Mind looks at a variety of subjects including: Respect, etiquette, beginners and has many comments by the Authors relating to these and much more.

Body focuses on technique and has a great section titled "trouble shooting technique" this section was very informative and again there are snippets of comments and suggestions from the books author/s which make great reading.

The last section of this book is the element of tradition and this was my favorite part of the book, and it really gives you an idea of what it must have been like when Aikido was unknown and training was severe. The stories of Abbe Sensei, Ken Williams Sensei and other well known instructors is very readable and will have you giggling at some of the remarkable things that happened back then.

In Positive Aikido you certainly won't find stories of dodging bullets or super human feats, but you will find accounts by those who were brought up with a method of teaching that is frowned upon nowadays and of respect that will never die. ... Read more

Product Description
Aikido, as a martial art, embraces both the physical aspects of enhancement as well as the spiritual growth of the individual. Each practitioner discovers and journeys their own unique path - gaining a new perspective of the world around them and of themselves. How Aikido Can Change the World is a road map of that journey of discovery. This book discusses Aikido beyond the physical aspects. While Aikido is a physical martial way, its philosophies and peripherals carry over far into a practitioner's world if proper focus and realization are maintained. The author conveys his expedition of the art gained through personal experience, exploration and integration. How Aikido Can Change the World is definitely one that will be read multiple times, as each reading will provide further insight as the Aikido practitioner develops and grows. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A must read for all serious practitioners of the art
When you want to take your Aikido to the next level, you can't go wrong with the information in these pages.This is a book that explains many of the hidden benefits and goals of the art.The practice of Aikido will expand your awareness, this book helps you understand how the art can serve you and how you should serve the art. ... Read more

Product Description
If you're interested in truly effective self-defense, this is the book for you.Grandmaster Bennett will teach you how to redirect attacks and gain the advantage over your opponent.You'll practice parries, counterstrikes, joint-locks, and throwing techniques, and see how Aikido principles apply in the dojo and on the street.

The Martial Arts Series combines study of the history and language of individual martial art forms with fundamental skill instruction.Each book uses clear language and photographs to teach the most important techniques.Whether used for self-development, competition, or self-defense, this series will benefit martial arts enthusiasts of all ranks. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

i'm the grand master of this style i just made up.
wow!i quickly became suspicious, and then thought this looks terrible."no, no," i told myself, "don't be too quick to judge."then i turned to the -about the author- page where i learned that the author is a 10th degree black belt and grand master in the style he founded in 1989.he looks to be about 35 years old.if you know anything about martial arts nothing else needs to be said

Beware the sensei who promotes himself to 10th dan!!
This book is horrible!!I only have a shodan in aiki jujitsu, but I can tell you, this book is horrible!!The demonstrators of the techniques look stiff andposed.Many of the reviews complain that this book totally undermines the flowing nature of aikido.However, the martial art I practice is much more linear than traditional aikido yet we still manage to practice our techniques much more smooth and relaxed than the alledged aikidoka in this awful book.The book doesn't just demonstrate bad aikido...it demonstrates bad self defense!! Also, how come this author, if he only has a 3rd dan in Yoseikanpromoted himself to 10th dan in his own style?!?!?Save your money and don't buy this book!!!

Unoriginal
I know of this book and as an aikido instructor and practitioner, I can tell you that the techniques and movements demonstrated in this book are not original to the author.The names of the techniques used by the author are taken from a legitimate aikido style called Yoseikan Aikido.While the book says that the author has rank in the Yoseikan style, he is in no way associated with the Yoseikan organization and has never received any blackbelt ranking from the organization.I would be suspect of any claims made by this book.

Nothing is totally worthless, you can always be ...
...a bad example. Read these reviews. The ones that are negative are that way for a reason. The photos in this book display poor form. In one, you can't tell which person is actually doing the technique, it could go either way. I, too, would give it negative stars if possible. I would almost put it in my collection if only to serve as a perfect example of what not to do. As for the positive reviews, I can only offer a few explanations,
1) somebody paid them to do it
2) the author trying to fool you
3) someone who has no idea of what they are talking about
I've only been in the art for 7 years and am only ranked shodan but it is clear how bad this is.

a waste of paper.....
The sheer number of negative reviews should steer any unsuspecting buyers away from this book but....

As a practitioner of Aikido, I am embarrassed that the term "Aikido" appears on the cover. This book is garbage, plain and simple. It isn't even good self defense.

If you want a good intro to Aikido, I would recommend Shioda's Dynamic Aikido or Westbrook & Ratti's Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere.

might not be such a waste of paper if it were in a format more easily hung in a bathroom to use as, well, you get the idea....

If I could give a negative star rating I would. ... Read more