Using the Jo

I like using the jo in a technique. It helps you develop your skills and understand the technique. But, you do need to be more careful when using it. It is very easy to get hurt with it.

Hard vs soft Aikido

I have been trying to compare the different styles of doing Aikido for years. Both styles can be very power full. The hard style which is a rougher form is more based upon techniques. The techniques are done very hard. There is little bending if any with the uke. I think it's a robot style. The soft style which is done with ki is more based upon bending with the uke. It can be very power full but much more grace full.

Hard and safe training....

It's important to train hard but it needs to be done safely. I have noticed some people can't find the tradeoff between the two. It's a tough subject to discuss.

Email Ki

Someone wrote me a rotten email at work. It was very insensitive. My response used ki. She replied and I believe she knew she was in the wrong. I redirected her words into kind words. It's amazing what you can do with ki.....

Front rolls...

It was my turn to lead the exercises. It was a small class. Just so perfect for something new. I introduced a new front roll exercise. I felt I needed to do something different for the front rolls. It involved picking up 2 pens in 2 consecutive rolls. Many members responded positively to it. I was happy I came up with it....

September and Aikido

During this cool month, it's great for training. It's not too hot or cold. Perfect for expanding your Aikido. ...

Understanding a technique...

Sometimes techniques happen so fast. When you get home, you try to remember what was taught to you. I have in the past written it down in a notebook. When the technique comes up again, I refine it in my notebook with things I forget to include with it. By putting it in your own words, you will be able to understand it. good tip for a beginner...