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 Aikido Student Handbook: A Guide to the Philosophy, Spirit, Etiquette and Training Methods of Aikido.

1. If you are a beginner (in the first few months) this is a great book. Not just an eye-level, unconvoluted, unpretentious introduction to the philosophy and aims of aikido, but also deals with some of those universal questions of most beginners- like how to approach practicing with veterans. Nice, pleasant read, which will only increase your enthusiasm.



2. This little book has been amazingly useful. I am the instructor of an aikido dojo and I have made extensive use of this book. I give a copy to interested people who come to watch a class to thumb through while we are doing warmups or repetitive exercises (I find it really piques their interest and when I ask if they have questions after class, they have fewer and the questions are less basic and more insightful after having skimmed this. It answers some of the questions new people don't even know enough to know they SHOULD be asking. I also use one as part of the introductory package for starting up with us - at $10, you can't go wrong. Aikido technique can only be learned on the mat, and this IS NOT A TECHNIQUE MANUAL (nor was it ever intended to be). New students need some of the why's, etiquette and terminology and philosophy in concise, understandable form - that's what makes this a great guidebook. Great job! Instructors, try giving all your new students a copy of this book the day they leave from their first class - I believe it will pay for itself in increased student retention.



3. A good book, with an interesting point of view, but included information is very basic. If you are looking for technical content, it ain't here...



4. As a beginner in Aikido, I found the book helpful in demystifying some of the etiquette and language, as well as providing a good backround on the sport and some of the philosopy. I would recommend it to any beginner and expect that it will remain on the bookshelf as a reference to many of the terms used in Aikido.



5. I have a couple Aikido books now and this is a very good book for me being 1) new to Aikido and 2) new to martial arts in general. Found the words sounded out in the back of the book to be very helpful. A good buy!

2 comments about Attacks in Aikido: How to do Kogeki, the Attack Techniques.

1. This book pinpoint aspects of Aikido training that is in some dojos neglected, the attack and how to perform it properly. In Aikido, being a peaceful martial art, focus is on the defensive techniques how to correctly avoid and lead the "opponents" attack away. On this topic there are numerous publications, books, videos, and youtube-clips available. To my knowledge no or very few discus the attack form since that is not Aikido. But in my opinion Aikido is a relation between the the "attacker" and the "defender". In order to perform the best Aikido both partners need to be at their best. However, I actually didn't realise that I missed a book on this topic before it landed in my mail box!
   
   In a clear, concise and well structured way Stefan guide us through all common attack forms practiced in Aikido dojos, grips, strikes, kicks, and weapon attacks. The book is filled with detailed descriptions on how to perform the attacks, together with discussions on the origin and purpose of the attack with reference to other martial arts (e.g. kendo, karate). The thorough descriptions are accompanied by plenty of photo illustrations which ads on to the clarity and the understanding.
   
   Independent on Aikido style, this book should be in the reference libary in any Aikido dojo.
   
   If I was required to propose improvements to this book I would only have one, print it on glossy paper ;-)



2. I am very fond of this book indeed. It is just what the author said about it in preface. Nothing more, nothing less. A useful tool. I'd say it is particularly useful for people somewhat familiar with marital arts, especially the one of its subject. It would not reveal much to a newbie, because there are things to know to understand, what the author is talking about. On the other hand an expert marital artist would or at least should know the most of the material covered. Which leads us to Aikido student to gain the largest benefit out of it. Knowing principles of attacks really helps, that is.
   Also people not that familiar to English should also have a fair chance of reading this book after adding a few new words to their vocabulary.
   
   My thanks to author who gave the possibility to read a unique dense material free of non-related literal crap. There are times, you have to read some chapter twice or more to uncover all the detail. Thanks Stefan, it is a good book.

4 comments about Aikido Weapons Techniques.

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.



4. I have just started Aikido classes and this book could not have come at a better time. It is a reminder of the actual training I have had in class. It also gives me more information on the few jo, tanto and bokken techniques that I have received in class. Some of these techniques and katas I have seen in an Aikido seminar so I know it is real. Everything is there, grips, etiquette, stances, ki from the Aikido point of view. There are also some knife techniques using the wooden knife known as the tanto. This is an excellent book for the beginner or intermediate student. The author has two other books on Aikido, Aikido Basics and Advanced Aikido. Phong Thong Dang is an Aikido 6th degree black belt with extraordinary experience, skill and knowledge. In addition he is also a 6th degree in Tae Kwon Do, a 5th degree in Judo and an 8th degree in Shaolin Kung Fu.

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.

5 comments about Aikido in Everyday Life: Giving In to Get Your Way Second Edition.

1. Authored by Terry Dobson, one of the earliest Occidentals to study Aikido in Japan under the Founder, and a self-described "oddball", this book is somewhat crytic in its approach, and one might possibly have to understand a lot more about the author to really get their head around this one. One man's trash, another man's treasure...



2. On the mat, we learn the techniques of Aikido - the ways to move, the joint locks, the pins - but this book is about the spirit of Aiki. Knowing how to blend with your attacker when they come at you, thrusting the jagged edge of a broken beer bottle is good to know. Knowing how to blend with someone BEFORE they break the beer bottle and come after your throat is better to know.
   
   This book is true to the goal of all Aikidoka; no matter what is coming at you, no matter how fierce the attack, no matter how many attackers, stay centered. Remaining centered gives you your best attempt at blending with the coming attack.
   
   Having just finished reading the book, I cannot attest to how well the techniques work. I can attest, however, to how much easier it is to handle conflicts since I began practicing Aikido and began actively and purposefully looking for ways to be more centered during arguments. This book gives tips on the techniques I lacked or stumbled upon by accident. Still, like my Aikido, this will take practice, but the fun is in following the path!



3. The headlines in today's news make the practice of the art of aikido--especially the psychological type of aikido--an idea whose time has finally come. And it's so great to see that this book is still around and available through Amazon.
   
   I read it, re-read it and initially used the first edition 15 years ago until the cover was torn and the pages were dog-eared and smudged. It was an invaluable personal resource: one of those splendid gems that "fell off the shelf" and into my hands just when I needed it. At the time I was having an awful time dealing with criticism and sarcasm from family members. This book taught me not only how to handle the slings and arrows of such "family fortunes," but to work on myself first (where all good things come from). A re-reading of this seminal work has given me the opportunity to put even more muscle and flesh on the bare bones of my initial encounter.
   
   Terry Dobson himself was a student of aikido. His attitude, his patience, and common-sense way of talking to the reader using helpful examples are grounded in his own pioneering martial arts experience. Terry Dobson actually studied the martial art with its originator, Morihei Ueshiba. The book's added diagrams give simple and concrete ways to visualize the dynamics of aikido's human energy, its usefulness in conflict, and its core of acceptance and nonviolent action (And that's "nonviolent," NOT "passive").
   
   If you become a sponge like I did you will soak it all up. If you use this book as an instruction manual and consult and review it frequently, you will enhance your self-confidence and give you a valuable toolbox for nimble interactions and conflict resolution--with sensitivity and integrity.



4. I actually used these techniques on one occasion while in my fourth year of college. I unfortunately allowed my second roommate to allow a third roommate to live with us who was a freshman. One day he came home extremely angry, about something other than myself, I don't recall. However, I was in his room and he was very irate and directed his anger towards me. Ironically, I was reading this book at the time and the principles in this book came to mind. I don't remember what I said but I was able to diffuse the situation and my roommate calmed down. He said "Wow, I was ready to fight you man!" (very immature guy at the time) but was no longer angry and I was able to talk with him about whatever the issue was. This encounter solidified for me that these concepts work. They are very simple and easy to apply. Applying geometric shapes to conflict is very much appropriate. Simplest is best.
   
   I am organizing my books at the moment and thus decided to write a review for this book as I plan to re-read it. I had an encounter in a parking lot with a reckless driver and I didn't handle the situation well. If I used a simple parley method I think it would have worked out better. Our instincts are to attack people immediately when harmed. However, the wisest choice, and in the words of Stephen Covey "Seek first to understand, then to be understood" (5th habit).



5. Because of its non-aggressive approach to conflict resolution, Aikido's techniques are often viewed as physical metaphors for side-stepping the stress and strain of daily life in the office, behind the wheel and at home.
   This is perhaps the finest bridge out there in transforming "an equilibrium of mind and body" into a way of life.
   I'd highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the martial arts, and all those who aren't.

5 comments about The Art of Peace.

1. This book was recommended to me by my first Aikido instructor; he said it would help me understand the philosophy of Aikido. I was at university at the time and just wanted to hit the mat, not the books; so I didn't get around to buying it.
   
   The book is humble, quite short in length; but once you have read it you will want to read it again and again. It has had a profound affect on my life. If you want to learn Aikido, why not hear what O'sensei had to say.



2. this book isnt about AIKIDO, THE ART OF PEACE, every page is but simple kindergarden quotes that fill up half a page if that---has nothing to do with the training mindset,ideas,philosophies,mediations,stories,examples,just quotes.some dont even make any sense! if you are truley searching for the art of peace, i would suggest look elsewhere.if this came with arms, i'd get it in an armbar and flip it then do some jeet kun do on the cover, maybe hit it with my kitana,give it a good muay thai kick!



3. This book has begun to expand my horizons and renew my desire to continue on my quest for inner understanding and conquering my fears.The Art of Peace



4. This little 126 page text was written by the founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba. Each page has brief and concise gem of wisdom from the Aikido Master. His dislike of material things is clear in this volume. For example, "One does not need buildings, money, power, or status to practice the Art of Peace. Heaven is right where you are standing, and that is the place to train." Aikido is the most non-competitive of the martial arts. There is an amusing saying among some martial artists. "How do you beat an Aikido expert? Answer: Don't attack him." Aikido is the most esoteric of the martial arts, believing in what they call KI, which is supposed to be a mysterious force in the universe. Though I disagree with many of the basic principles taught by Ueshiba; nevertheless, I highly recommend this book for its insight into Aikido.
   Rating: 4 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Season of the Warrior: a poetic tribute to warriors, Martial Art Myths, Never trust a Politician, Pro-Systems Combatives Vol. 1, 2, The Monadnock Defensive tactics system, Use of the Monadnock Straight Baton, Shotokan Karate self-defense techniques: combat Karate for the street).



5. These book has one of the must powerfull thaughts of a great human Being, Morihei Ueshiba, the creator of the Aikido, the martial art based in the old Samurai defernse stile, an art of peace and balance, a way to centery your life and your being, These book enhace the value of being a sword of change and contribution by being a warrior in a new dimentionf of the meaning of being in service.
   Cuote " When your eyes engage those of another person, greet him or her with a smile and they will smile back. This is one of the essential techniques of the Art of peace" pp97 ob the book.

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

1. 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.



2. 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.



3. 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.



4. 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.



5. Though I never held any rank in Aikido, I have rank in several related martial arts and studied numerous other combat arts.(Jujitsu, Judo, Kendo, Kenjutsu, Krav Maga, Aikijutsu, Combatives, Karate). I only took up Aikido for a short time but I have always respected the art for its many beautiful and practical techniques. In fact, as a law enforcement trainer several of the techniques I teach came originally from Aikido or Aikijutsu. This book is clearly one of the best books on Aikido I have ever read. The detailed explanations combined with the very clear photographs and illustrations, make this book a MUST OWN for anyone who is studying Aikido. It is best to use this great book in combination with training under an Aikido expert to really get the most out of it. In conclusion, this is a book that should be in every serious martial artist's personal collection. Rating: 5 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Monadnock Defensive Tactics System, Use of the Monadnock Straight Baton, PR-24 Baton Advanced Techniques, Tanto-Jutsu Manual, Wakizashi-Jutsu Manual, Never Trust a Politician, Martial Art Myths).

5 comments about Aikido Exercises for Teaching and Training: Revised Edition.

1. 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.



2. This is an excellent book for people new to Aikido or even people who just want to know a bit about Aikido. It would also be of value to teachers of Aikido (which would include senior students who need to work with beginners). The book is well written and is packed full of amusing and insightful quotes (and longer pieces) from other Aikodokas (students of Aikido).
   
   A brief table of contents:
   
   1. Introducing Aikido -- discusses what Aikido is and is not equipment, etiquette, learning and teaching.)
   2. A Brief Ki Class -- Introduces the "ki" in Aikido. Ki is a combination of attitudes and basic principles that underlie the art.
   3. Aikido Class -- How to warm up for Aikido (getting the body ready is important as I learned the hard way)
   4. Rolling, Falling and Flying -- Most of the time one person is "throwing" and the other is falling. Learning how to fall without getting hurt is an important skill in Aikido (and everyday life for that matter)
   5. Grabs and Strikes -- The basic "attacks" used to trigger the Aikido defenses.
   6. Locks and Throws -- The basic Aikido defenses
   7. Weapons and Toys -- A tiny taste of Aikido weapons technique (a high-level topic) and other ways to train.
   8. Off the Mat, In Real Life -- Basic ways to apply the attitudes to life. Includes a very interesting section on verbal self-defense.
   
   The chapter on stretching has some useful material on the effects of muscle tightness which can lead to pain that is felt both in the offending muscle but also quite some distance away.
   
   The latter part of the book goes through many of the basic Aikido techniques. Each move it demonstrates also contains a reference to the technique two other good Aikido books: Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere: An Illustrated Introduction and Total Aikido: The Master Course (Bushido--The Way of the Warrior). This is very useful since one problem with Aikido is there a a number of different schools which differ in some ways, particularly in how they name the techniques.
   
   If you're just starting out or maybe just want to get the lay of the land before finding a dojo, then this is the book I would recommend starting with. If you get into it you would probably want the Dynamic Sphere book and then the Total Aikido book. These will provide you with outside information for many years of study and training.



3. This is a good book to have as a reference for the various warmup exercises and techniques of Aikido. I learned a lot of these things many years ago at a dojo where the instructor spoke in Japanese, so I didn't fully understood what he was explaining at first. This book has been very helpful in clarifying some of the finer points.
   As fellow students of Aikido know, the techniques become deeper with each year of practice and many things become clear as you progress through the levels and micro-levels of the various moves. This book is helpful as a guide along the way if you are already into it, and it is a good beginner reference if you are just getting started at a dojo.
   
   The layout of the book is logical and it is nicely written.



4. One of the more useful and humble features of this book is its concordance. Every Aikido technique discussed in Shifflett's book has a cross reference to discussions of the same technique in other well known Aikido texts. This makes it easy for the beginner to rely on Shifflett's book as their starting piont. Then, using their guide, refer to other books for different perspectives on that same technique. On the merits of this feature alone, I would recommend this book.
   
   I generally found that I could go from class to this book, and understand the author's treatment.
   
   However, I could do with fewer "off the mat" examples. Shifflett tries to bring Aikido to life with excerpts from Music, Physics, and just about everything under the sun in order to make Aikido seem more "accessible". However, in creating so many examples, the opposite impression is subtly communicated; namely that Aikido is competely inscrutable and we poor westerners need a dumbed down version of it if we are to progress at all. Also, Shifflett seems to take aim at people who want to use martial arts for self defense, as if it represents some horrible Machismo, and we'd be better off not studying if that is our aim. I do not agree with that particular viewpoint.
   
   Despite this reviewer's differences in philsophy with the author, there is much that is useful in this well-written book. The chapters on stretching and warming up were thorough, as was the chapter on innovative ideas for creating at-home practice tools.
   
   Buy this book, but keep that grain of salt handy.



5. C.M. Shifflett's "Aikido for Teaching and Training," is a thoughfully crafted handbook that should benefit any Aikido practicioner. I myself am primarily a Shaolin Kung Fu stylist, however, I was honored to have studied with Shihan Paul Silvaine of Valley Aikido in Northhampton Massachusetts between 1985 and 1989. The Aikido that he taught me was inspiring to say the least, and its circular nature blends perfectly with both Kung Fu and Tai Chi methodology. This book has helped me to rekindle his teachings, and allowed me to resume practice in Aikido. There is an amazing abundance of information within this book, and several readings will most likely be necessary to glean all of the treasure locked within its pages. The illustrations are adequate, but in some cases, I thought that a few more photos would have been appropriate. I agree with some of the other posters that the testimonials were often both humorous and fitting, but at times I found them excessive, and anxiously read on for more of the Author's expert instruction. Keep up the good work! Two thumbs up!
   
   Sincerely,
   
   Erik D.J. O'BrienThe Drums of Doom: Part 2 of The Duaredheim Staff Saga

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

1. Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere is one of those books that tells the story but you must dig a little for the information. Depending on your years of experience, or lack thereof, this book will be your Bible of Aikido or something you prop the door open with. This is not a teaching book but a tome to be savored. To be read and re-read to gather the knowledge the authors are trying to impart to you. I purchased this book three times over the years because mine keeps disappearing and would glady do it again, it is that good.
   The one drawback is that at times the techniques are numbered instead of named but even that turned out to be a plus because it forces you to pay attention. Whatever you have read about this book it is true, if you don't have it in your library, get it. This is not so much a review than it is an endorsement. I have plenty of books in my martial arts library but there is only a few that I would keep replacing and this is one of them.
   They call this an illustrated introduction but it goes way beyond that. Combined with your personal training this is a Masters thesis in paperback.



2. It was great to finally find a copy of this, it's a seminal work and for a used copy, in superb shape. Thanks!



3. I think this is the best book explaining a specific martial art that I've come across.
   
   Why is it exceptional? Several reasons. First, the authors are unusually articulate, and at times almost scholarly. Second, the book addresses both the philosophy of aikido (its tenets, values, and meditative characteristics), as well as the technique of aikido (its movements and defensive tactics), and it explains the link between the philosophy and technique in an especially coherent way. Third, the book delves into details of aikido technique using an extensive set of figural drawings and diagrams, which are easier to understand than a series of photographs would be. Fourth, the book also provides brief background regarding the institutional side of aikido: i.e., how is the art typically taught, what does does a dojo look like, what is the etiquette of a typical class, how does ranking work, etc.
   
   There's an almost anthropological quality to some of the material in this book -- again, quite scholarly. About the only aspect of aikido background that it doesn't cover in much detail is the history of the art, or of its founder, Morihei Uyeshiba. Notably, the book acknowledges up front that it provides only a limited introduction to the techniques (at ~370 pages): given its intent as an aikido handbook, rather than an aikido encyclopedia, I don't see that as a flaw.
   
   By contrast, there are many other martial arts books that basically consist of lists of techniques, with illustrative photographs that are very difficult for a non-practitioner to follow. Such books are often poorly written or poorly translated, and don't really convey the essence of what a particular martial art is, with regard to technique, philosophy, or pedagogy. This book stands out because it does convey that essence, and because the style of the writing itself actually *feels* a bit like aikido.
   
   If you are interested in either aikido or martial arts generally, this book is worth picking up. You won't be disappointed.



4. Having a long-time interest in martial arts, I remember seeing this title advertised in magazines years ago and decided to finally purchase a copy. It is well written and gives the reader a fine introduction to Aikido. Highly recommended.



5. I've studied Aikido, as well as a number of other martial arts, and don't believe that you can truly learn them from a book. That being said, this is a very nice reference for students of Aikido and other martial artists who want to learn more about Aikido. Even more, the illustrations are absolutely beautiful. Well worth getting. [...]