Learn Aikido

· Always start with taisabaki, an evasive movement! It is not aikido if not started by avoiding the oncoming attack - even if the attack is a mild or slow one. · Blocking the attack should not be necessary. To block the oncoming force is not really aikido, which should avoid confrontation. Sometimes blocking is practical, but if it is necessary, then the technique needs modification. · Techniques should function to execute. An aikido technique should be possible to perform, and to do it in a way that avoids as well as controls the attacker. · Similar solution for gotai, from static, and jutai, in movement. If a basic technique that works in movement needs to be significantly changed when done from a static start, it should be modified. · Basic training should be done with low postures. The balance and control of low stances is essential to have as standard for basic techniques. · Forces should be united (aiki). In aikido techniques the forces of the attacker and the defender should be joined, and not work against each other. · The need for atemi, strike, should be limited. The aikido techniques should be possible to do with few or no atemi, which otherwise tends to be 'an easy way out'. · Tori’s starting position should be such that uke’s attack is reasonable. The target that uke is supposed to aim for, must be easily reached - not hidden or blocked or otherways awkward for uke. · Tori’s starting position should not be such that only one aikido technique is appropriate. It is no good if tori is positioned ideally for one aikido technique, but awkwardly for other techniques. Tori should stand able to do many different techniques. · Tori should control the situation all through the technique. From the start to the finish, whether it is a pinning or a throw, tori should be in charge and remain aware. · The fundamentals (such as center, ki, posture, etc.) should be stressed in training the basic techniques. The techniques are mere expressions of the fundamentals, and do not work well without them.