Recommended reading: “Interview with Morihiro Saito (2)” by Stanley Pranin

The article below has been selected from the extensive archives of the Online Aikido Journal. We believe that an informed readership with knowledge of the history, techniques and philosophy of aikido is essential to the growth of the art and its adherence to the principles espoused by Aikido Founder Morihei Ueshiba.

Aikido consists of taijutsu (body or weaponless techniques) and bukiwaza (weapon techniques) so we have to practice both. I have to teach at least the basic techniques from those the Founder left us. I am doing this because it is my duty to do so. It is more understandable for students if I explain multiple-attack techniques through the sword rather than taijutsu. I cannot explain and have them understand true Aikido well unless I explain the sword through taijutsu.

The Aikido Journal archives now include more than 800 articles in twenty different languages and numerous video clips. We are constantly adding new articles and translations in our effort to document aikido and related disciplines past and present. If you would like to support us in this effort by taking out a subscription to the Online Aikido Journal we welcome you to do so by clicking this link. Remember that if you subscribe or renew for two years you will now receive the Aiki News / Aikido Journal Archival DVD absolutely free of charge. Don’t pass up this special offer!

Click here to read entire article.

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Posted by Aikido Journal on Jan 15th, 2010: Recommended Reading (post a comment)