5 comments about Way of Aikido, The: Life Lessons from an American Sensei: Life Lessons from an American Sensei.

1. After receiving mastership in Usui Shiki Ryoho Reiki. I started exploring other Japanese disciplines dealing with Ki (Lifeforce Energy).

   This book crossed my path, and to say I was disappointed would be an understatement.

   In my opinion this book was writen solely to enlist new students.

   The author gives some background of Aikido and it's founder O Sensei. Unfortunately Mr Leonard spends most of his time talking about the Esalen Institute, and LET (Leonard Energy Training (if memory serves)).

   If you have questions or comments; E-Mail me. Two Bears.

   Wah doh Ogedoda.




2. I came across this book in my travels and found it very intriguing. I found the idea of Aikido interesting and investigated further. I found Mr. Leonard gave a great over view to the philosophies of the founder on Aikido. He incorporated Aikido into your everyday life situations and it has truly changed my life. I now practice in the Martial Way of Aikido and my life has not been the same ever since. Thank you Mr. Leonard.



3. At a recent aikido seminar, I asked some friends why they practiced aikido. All three of them had slightly different answers, but all mentioned that it made them a better person. I remember thinking they seemed to be on to something, but I couldn't authentically give the same response at the time.

   I took up aikido six years ago in Asia because it was a martial art that fit my non-violent sensibilities. I continue to practice it because, like George Leonard, aikido represents a path to mastery that defies quick fixes. It's a modern day spiritual discipline that is challenging, fun and it trains my character. This book captures the essence of that discovery in George Leonard's own words and expresses it in language that most anyone can grasp. You won't find here a treatise on how to do aikido techniques (you learn that through practice on the mat), but you will find practical wisdom for everyday living.

   George Leonard is a trained and seasoned writer, which brings ease and enjoyment to the reading of this book. He is also trained and seasoned in aikido, and his reverence for life and cultivation of the human spirit come through clearly in his stories. I recommend it to those interested in aikido, but also to the broader audience of those interested in a spiritual approach to life.




4. A friend found this at a second hand bookstore during the holidays and gave it to me for Christmas. I've been practicing Aikido for only six months and have begun to discover that I'm fascinated by both the martial and spirirtual aspects of the discipline. Thus, my friend's reasoning for this gift.

   Mr. Leonard does a fine job of presenting some concepts which may awaken a desire to learn more about the philosophy and spirit of Aikido. Unfortunately each phrase or statement which moves in that direction is a bit of sales pitch to participate in his seminars or join his organizations.

   Not being a California resident and lacking a total interest in sales pitches related to Aikido, I've spent some time doing research of my own and speaking more closely with my Senseis about Aikido's philosphy.

   Buy this book if you want some inspiration to discover your own path. Otherwise, it's more suited to be the required reading for one of his seminars.




5. I found this book to be very informative. Geo. Leonard has found a way of utilizing the principles of an elite martial art for every day life.
   Any one interested in improving themselves could definitely benefit from this book.

5 comments about Aikido Exercises for Teaching and Training.

1. I'd sincerely recommend this book to very beginners and... yes, to sensei.
   The most valuable point of the book is that instead of usual plain listing of the standard techniques of this or that style, it concentrates on the basic principles - "how, why, and when it works", thus offering basic building blocks, and lots of unique tips and tricks. The principles are beyond the style differences, and thus applicable to everyone.
   For sensei it contains many tips of how to handle difficulties of beginners.



2. Book was interesting and informative. Book covered some items that I haven't seen addressed anywhere else. I would recommend this book especially for people new to Aikido.



3. Very well presented material. There is something here for any level of training. Many core concepts explained.



4. Very helpful for priming & review of aikido dojo protocols for both teaching and learning aikido warm-up, basic training, principles and techniques in general.



5. This an excellent book to help with learning aikido. We give a copy to every new student who joins our dojo to supplement our classes and expand the student grasp of knowledge.

5 comments about Total Aikido: The Master Course (Bushido--The Way of the Warrior).

1. As a practitioner of Aikido and Aikijutsu I find "Total Aikido: The Master Course (Bushido--The Way of the Warrior)" a useful reference point. Any student of aikido will find the details in this book golden.



2. This is a very fine book on aikido. Clear text, crisp and easy to understand photos, and detailed and well written text. I had a specific reason for reading this text--I needed help with all the Japanese terminology for the moves, which I'm weak on--and this book presents that quite well. Both the attacks and defenses are given the full names. I note one reviewer here who says that the spelling for some of the techniques is slightly different from what he's used to. There is also better and more complete coverage for all the moves. Most aikido books seem to present only a sampling of the various techniques. This book takes a more systematic approach. Aikido especially is one art you can't learn from a book, or even good videos, but they can help you with your training in the dojo. I've also found the videos of Ken Ota, Robert Liedke, and Rod MacEwen helpful in that regard. Overall, a fine book and a worthwhile addition to your martial arts library.



3. Gozo Shioda's masterful presentation of the fundamentals of Aikido is profound. The reader is drawn into a world that is both complex and very simple, through techniques which require great skill to perform but which flow like water when done right. The Ai (harmony) element is present throughout the book, and I now recommend this book to my students and give it as gifts to my friends.



4. Gozo Shioda was a direct student of Aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba and this experience is seen through the detail of this book. The beginning of the book goes over various basics and exercises taught in Aikido. This proves very helpful for anyone who has not actually taken an Aikido class. There is a great deal of detail for various basic moves, explaining everything from breathing to shifting weight. One of the problems with soft martial arts such as Aikido is the difficulty in performing the throws or locks if you have not had an instructor. The book helps in this by explaining key points to the technique that should be remembered as well as explaining the mechanics of it in detail. Close up and side bars providing further detail along side the clear step by step pictures of the techniques as they are being performed also make it easier to learn these moves with a partner. I would give this book a perfect score if it were not for the Japanese technique names. This book was translated from Japanese. While the names of the techniques are translated to English the explanation for how to do the technique uses traditional Japanese terms at times.
   
   For example:
   from Four Direction Throw 1
   
   "1-2 From migi ai-hanmi kamae, uke grabs your left wrist and pulls in a straight line. You strike with right-handed back-fist atemi to uke's face."
   
   While this is a bit of learning curve I didn't find it as cumbersome once I had the basic terminology down.
   
   As for the practical side. While Aikido does not come as easily as learning to throw a good right hook, many of the throws and joint locks can be employed without much effort once they are learned well. The techniques are presented often against traditional grabs or overhand strikes, however much of the material can be used just as readily by simply training with someone shoving, throwing a punch or going to tackle. There was a lack of kick defenses, but most people starting a street fight will not kick high anyway. The joint locks to control people are useful, especially if you are in a position where you cannot knock someone out who attacks, such as a teacher or a security guard.



5. Uno de los mejores libros de artes marciales que tengo.
   
   Es tal vez el libro que todo principiante del aikido debería tener como guía de referencia, ya que explica cómo se producen errores más comunes que solemos cometer en las técnicas básicas como ikkio, nikio, sankio, yonkio, cómo agarrar bien al compañero (uke o tori)...
   
   Incluye también algunas aplicaciones interesantes a la defensa personal (goshin waza).
   
   Buena edición la versión en inglés, con tapa dura.
   
   Ojalá encontrara más libros como éste.

4 comments about The Essence of Aikido: Spiritual Teachings of Morihei Ueshiba.

1. A venture into the mysterious depth of Aikido. A must for all serious scholars interested in the study of O-Sensei's work and art. Unsuitable for half-hearted novices as most contents require critical study.



2. For those martial artists who admire Morihei Ueshiba and fans of the editor/writer John Stevens. I appreciated the interesting portfolio of ancient aikido art, photos of the founder of AIKIDO and his "dynamic quality," DOKA. I very much enjoyed Ueshiba's japanese poetry and the valuable interpretations of his exotic poems. One may imagine learning some new insights into the fascinating art of aikido and spiritual poems of Ueshiba. World Class Aikido book! Mostly about the ESSENCE without the

   aikido instruction type of book!




3. This book is a must have. The material on the lesser known spiritual origins of Aikido is something that few books discuss, on a subject that few aikidoka fully understand. If you don't have this book, you don't have an Aikido library.



4. If you are looking for a book on technique this isn't it, but a good overview of Ueshiba's philosophy of life.

3 comments about Aikido Weapons Techniques: The Wooden Sword, Stick, and Knife of Aikido.

1. Aikido techniques which use wooden weapons isn't just for weapons users - it provides practice moves which can translate to all forms of basic and advanced aikido tactics. AIKIDO WEAPONS TECHNIQUES therefore is recommended not just for weapons users, but for any aikido student moving beyond the basics - and for any library strong in martial arts titles.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch



2. An excellent primer in the background and use of typical aiki weapons. It is balanced and well illustrated. This author team is excellent, and well-qualified. Their other titles are also excellent.



3. "Aikido Weapons Techniques: The Wooden Sword, Stick, and Knife of Aikido" is for beginners. It starts from the most rudimentary steps for people who have never used weapons before. The pictures are excellent. One of the most important things in learning is to start with good habits from the beginning; never let bad habits develop. This book teaches all the right habits. Since I am a novice, this book was/is perfect for me.

5 comments about Best Aikido: The Fundamentals (Illustrated Japanese Classics).

1. I have read several aikido books that demonstrate visually, proper aikido techniques. This is the first book I have read that was easy to follow, easy to understand and easy to remember. Although it was easy in all these areas, it wasn't at all lacking. The information in this book is "must have" for any beginning aikido practitioner.



2. This is a well formatted and profusely illustrated volume. All info is basic, but the presentation is very good.



3. Aikido is Budo, as the authors speak of many times in the beginning. But they do not discuss this any further than that in this book. But there is another book by these authors that discusses that. This strikes me as being a little too Capitalistic. What this book does do fairly well is discuss and show the basic moves and steps in Aikido. And since it was written by the Founder's son and grandson, I respect and trust their words very much.
   
   Now for the unfortunate aspect of Aikido, it requires 2 people to learn it. For many, this is fine. This requirement is because the martial aspect of Aikido is purely defensive, so there are no punches or kicks to practice. The funny thing is, that is what I wanted. I should have thought this out on my own and realized that you need someone to attack you before you can defend yourself, in practice or in reality. So I cannot knock the authors for this failure, it is all mine. Just take it as a warning before exploring this art on your own.
   
   In short, this book should be trusted and respected, but it is incomplete for the entire Aikido experience.



4. Best Aikido is a book for mid-level 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 mid-level techniques. This is part one. the Part 2 Book is the master's Course. Together, they are probably the most comprehensive, exhaustive, current, authoritative references for Aikido.



5. I'm a beginner (aren't we all) and have about 5 aikido books in the library so far. I am currently preparing for a kyu test and this book is the most helpful. Period. Not as good as time in the dojo, but very good.
   
   The pictures are clear and they confirm the stuff we all should already know. More importantly for me is that this book has the most understandable presentation of the names and words for the various stances, holds, throws, etc.

5 comments about The Art of Peace.

1. Named for the mythical (?) and mystical kingdom in the East, Shambhala Publications is known for bringing some of the greatest and sometimes most obscure philosophical writings of Mankind to the attention of the general public. Heavily (though not exclusively) concerned with Buddhist and Taoist thought, Shambhala Pocket Classics are an attractive set of unabridged minibooks which fit comfortably in a shirt pocket, making them perfect for reading on planes, trains, and automobiles. Titles in the set include THE BOOK OF TEA, WAY OF THE JEWISH MYSTICS, ZEN FLESH, ZEN BONES, THE TIBETAN BOOK OF THE DEAD, TAO TE CHING, POEMS BY EMILY DICKINSON, THE ART OF WAR, and this volume by Morihei Ueshiba, THE ART OF PEACE.
   
   Written as a conscious counterpoint to Sun Tzu's immortal classic, THE ART OF PEACE is a collection of aphorisms and short maxims which set forth Ueshiba's philosophy of life. Ueshiba (1883-1969), the founder of Aikido ("The Art of Peace") often referred to as O'Sensei the Great Teacher, is widely considered the greatest martial artist the world has ever seen. Aikido is regarded as the most difficult and effective of the martial arts, finding it's basis wholly in the ability to invert an aggressor's force. Aikido relies on physical conditioning and a series of locks and throws rather than injurious kicks and punches. It has been documented that in his seventies Ueshiba could restrain an attacker with one finger or evade multiple attackers with such grace that he appeared to become invisible to them.
   
   Ueshiba was a pacifist at a time when Japan was becoming increasingly militaristic. He credited his development of Aikido to a series of visions which occurred over the course of his lifetime and convinced him of the universatility of humanity. He saw Warrior traditions as having evolved beyond mere adventures in hostility into a clarion call to protect and defend, respect and honor all things.
   
   As such, THE ART OF PEACE is the taproot of all Aikido training. It is a brief book which holds many profound thoughts deserving of reflection. The Aikidoka needs to take THE ART OF PEACE as a foundation stone for further learning and awareness. Unsurprisingly, much of the substance of THE ART OF PEACE will be familiar to students of Zen, and this volume should form a portion of the library of any Sangha.



2. 
   Awesome read and instructional guide for those who may be considering embracing any serious traditional martial art as a way of living, not just for sport enthusiast or fighter "wannabe", but actually internalizing the philosophical applications of the Martial Way (Budo) on our daily doings. A guide to discover the esoteric meaning of self control, loyalty, honor, etiquette, but above all of love, the supreme Way to self respect, respect to others and to self-preservation, the preservation of those we love and nation. All these encompassed in the base of Aikido (the way of harmony), beyond the mere exoteric physical functions of pulling, grabbing, throwing and falling. Highly recommended for the martial way enthusiast. A very interesting path to understand the profound and compassionate mind of Ueshiba O'Sensei. Osu!
   
   Adames Sensei,
   Manila, Philippines



3. Anyone considering taking their martial arts study to the next level and turning it into a way of life will be enriched by the philosophies found in this book.



4. The quotes of the Aikido Founder. A wonderful book to show the heart and wisdom of Morihei Ueshiba . A gift of a book to own.



5. A great insight into the views of the founder of Aikido. Living the art of peace, not only in everyday life, also through training, is a way to inner peace. An excellent read.

5 comments about Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere: An Illustrated Introduction.

1. As a beginner of aikido, I am sometimes at a loss at remembering everything from the recent class. This book gives a good insight into aikido and has brilliant illustrations to aid the novice with technique.
   A MUST HAVE FOR ANY BEGINNER



2. This is a very good book and I'm glad I bought it. The numbering system for attacks, interceptions, and projections can be annoying, but it does reveal a certain order in the moves. For example, ikkyo has many flavors depending on the attack but is all about elbow control. Those same attacks are treated differently when the wrist gets all the attention.
   
   So, I guess the reason for the numbering system is to reveal the broader concepts.
   
   When it comes to testing for rank, you have to spend some time translating between names and numbers. While this might seem to be a big deal, it really isn't. Sensei will surely have a personal twist (pardon the pun) on everything anyway. Learn the broad concepts from the book and the fine details in the dojo.
   
   practice practice practice



3. Most of the other reviewers have said it already, so I'll cut to the chase- this is an incredible book. A few months ago, I began learning aikido. Frustrated with the lack of handouts with basic newbie information, which were provided in the judo/jujutsu I used to train at, I went looking for a book. So much of Aikido is bodily physics, and I had begun to draw the kind of force diagram one learns in a basic HS/College Physics course. After reading reviews, I went for this book and I can't say I regret it. It is the most comprehensive text I've seen, and for me the diagrams are much more helpful than more photographic demonstrations, though a combination of both seems to be the best. Perhaps it has to do with the way a person thinks- for me, this book is right on.
   
   I bought the book used for under $10, labelled as being in Good condition. I was very impressed wit the quality of the binding and paper, much nicer than your average hardcover and even of the more expensive type of book meant for academia. Definately worth the money, even at more than that!



4. I first read this book in 1989 when I started studying Aikido. It was more than useful as a beginning student and continued to be useful through my progression into teaching over the years to come. I recently moved across country and wasn't able to pack much. This book was one item I left behind. I am returning to Aikido after a three year recovery from an auto accident and even though I have my original copy in story I am happy to be shopping for a second.
   
   One of the most important aspects of Aikido is transcending the techniques and grapsing the underlying theory. This book certainly helps.



5. Having just started training in Aikido, I needed a few books to give me the proper background. If one is to own just one, this would be it. There is a lot of ritual in Aikido, and some of it I do not care for, but overall, I believe this to be a very good self defense system, which can be modulated in intensity to correspond to the ferocity of the attacker's energy and intent. The drawings and explanations are very clear, while the theory and tradition is not overwhelming. Highly recommended!

No comments about The Secret Teachings of Aikido.

No comments about Aikibatto: Sword Exercises for Aikido Students.