Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere: An Illustrated Introduction provides a complete foundation in the practice of one of the most distinctive and effective Japanese martial arts. Aikido was created in Japan in the 1920's by Morihei Ueshiba, also known as Osensei. To possess the skills, techniques and attitude of the true practitioner of aikido, one must achieve a very high level of integration of the powers of mind and body, the harmonious combination of physical means and ethical motives. By controlling body position and learning how to harmonize vital physical and mental powers, anyone (regardless of size, strength or weight) can fend off attacks using this sophisticated martial art. Written and illustrated by husband/wife team, Oscar Ratti and Adele Westbrook, Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere, with over 1,200 illustrations, includes many Aikido techniques in chapters such as: What is Aikido? The Foundations of Aikido The Practice of Aikido The Basic Techniques of Neutralization Advanced Practice And more!

This introduction to aikido aims to train the reader to sense theirpponent's intentions and turn his movements to your own advantage.

Aikido-a martial art deriving its effectiveness, like judo and karate, from the flow of ki-- techniques that, when thoroughly mastered, enable the gentle to overcome the strong -- exercise and sport for men and women of all ages, based on natural movements and harmony of mind and body Ancient theory, modern practice: Dynamic Aikido brings together the whole spectrum of theoretical and applied aikido. Through it, one can become perfectly attuned to one's opponent, can sense his intentions and turn his movements to one's own advantage. Comprehensive and fully illustrated, DynamicAikido presents the basic postures and stances, fundamental techniques and applications: how to cope with a frontal attack, how to avoid an attack from the rear, how to sense and thwart the pickpocket. An essential companion for every beginner, a vital reference for students of all levels.

Due to its nonaggressive nature, aikido is rapidly becoming the martial arts form most preferred by law enforcement officers. Now, all readers can learn valuable skills needed to thwart an attack and subdue an aggressor in The Secrets of Police Aikido. In aikido, it is preferable to move out of the way of a punch, and it makes more sense to quickly take a person down, rather than stand toe-to-toe and punch it out. Readers of this book will develop a better sense of awareness and learn to control a situation by moving to positions of advantage and readiness. Chapters discuss the history of aikido, warm-up exercises, rules to keep in mind when approaching an opponent, maintaining self-control, and techniques for handling virtually any situation a reader may face. Anyone interested in the martial arts will find The Secrets of Police Aikido both valuable and necessary.

Presents an introduction to the fundamentals of aikido, covering training, techniques, and principles of the martial art.

Master the techniques of aikido with this illustrated martial arts guide. Complete Aikido is the authoritative text on this enlightening martial art and self-defense system. This definitive aikido guide is packed with history and philosophy and offers precise descriptions with over 400 photographs illustrating the correct--and incorrect--way to execute aikido techniques. In the almost thirty years since the death of aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba O'Sensei, his many students have spread his philosophy and vision across the world, including author Roy Suenaka. Complete Aikido provides insights into the three leading styles of this Japanese martial art: the original art developed by founder Morihei Ueshiba O'Sensei, the Shin-Shin Toitsu aikido of Koichi Tohei Sensei, and the Suenaka-ha Tetsugaku-ho aikido of Roy Suenaka Sensei. Both a fascinating martial biography and a comprehensive instructional manual, this aikido book is a must for all practitioners seeking the way of harmony.

A study of the ethical and philosophical principles of Aikido, as envisioned by its founder Morihei Ueshiba, and how this unique martial art can deepen our connection to nature Here is a unique approach to the teachings of the Founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba, as interpreted by his direct student of fifteen years. Mitsugi Saotome examines the spiritual philosophy of the Founder, the warrior ideals of feudal Japan as the basis of his martial arts philosophy, and the scientific principles underlying the philosophy of Aikido technique. The author shows that the physical movement of Aikido is the embodiment of principles of the spirit. Negative force is not countered with aggression but is controlled and redirected through the power and balance of spiral movement. This is the shape of Aikido and the dynamic shape at the foundation of all energies of existence. Aikido movement can only be understood from its roots in universal law and the processes of nature. The sincere practice and study of Aikido deepens our appreciation for the perfection of nature's balance and brings us back into harmony with our environment, other people, and ourselves. Abundantly illustrated with the author's drawings, diagrams, and calligraphies, as well as photographs demonstrating Aikido techniques, the book also offers a history of Aikido, personal anecdotes about the Founder, and translations of several of his lectures.