Aikido Clips

**Togakure** · 11-10-2005, 02:22

Here are some Aikido clips that I found when I ran a search on my Japanese family name. Interesting, that the master shown has my younger brother's Japanese name as well (no, to my knowledge we are not related).

Notice how he enters, blends and redirects, rather than counter force with force. It seems as if the aggressor is not attacking with much force; this is because of the great skill with which his energy is redirected and his aggression mitigated.

If you are looking for visually impressive kicky-punchy-kikkyo-asu, you should search on Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Kung Fu or the like. Aikido, properly practiced, is subtle, flowing, beautiful and rather effective in its intent.

One of my favorite techniques is demonstrated in clip 2: Kote Gaeshi. It is especially effective in response to frontal punches and grabs, which are so often encountered in real-world altercations. In this clip, the nature of the attack is somewhat obscured by the aggressor's body, but Chida Sensei's response is clearly demonstrated.

Enjoy.

**GoreBag** · 11-10-2005, 02:41

Excellent clips, but some of them show their choreography. Some of the movements are rather brute-force-oriented, though, like the first throw in clip number 6.

**Togakure** · 11-10-2005, 03:02

Originally Posted by NeonGod

Excellent clips, but some of them show their choreography. Some of the movements are rather brute-force-oriented, though, like the first throw in clip number 6.

Yes, these are from a demonstration. The attacks and responses are known beforehand; they aren't spontaneous. It would be great to find some clips of "real-world" aikido, but as competitions aren't generally a part of the aikido practice, these would be rare at best (if anyone finds some, post them!).

After reviewing #6 closely, it seems that the aggressor is attempting to use force via a wrist hold of some kind. It appears that Chida sensei waits, then gives, then quickly redirects--using strength as well as leverage in this particular technique--to throw his partner. It seems to me that the energy he expends to accomplish this is minimal in comparison to the result.

**Togakure** · 11-10-2005, 03:30

Here are some more, including a very short one of O'Sensei. The second one of Sensei Saito responding to multiple attackers with bokken is fun.

**Dutch_guy** · 11-10-2005, 17:19

cool clips, thanks for sharing them Toga.

**Togakure** · 11-10-2005, 19:50

De nada ... my pleasure

.

**A.Saturnus** · 11-10-2005, 22:51

Originally Posted by TogakureOjonin

Yes, these are from a demonstration. The attacks and responses are known beforehand; they aren't spontaneous. It would be great to find some clips of "real-world" aikido, but as competitions aren't generally a part of the aikido practice, these would be rare at best (if anyone finds some, post them!).

After reviewing #6 closely, it seems that the aggressor is attempting to use force via a wrist hold of some kind. It appears that Chida sensei waits, then gives, then quickly redirects--using strength as well as leverage in this particular technique--to throw his partner. It seems to me that the energy he expends to accomplish this is minimal in comparison to the result.

I have a DVD with various Aikido clips. Among them, videos made in Steven Seagal´s Japanese dojo. His style is more aggressive and "real-world" like. Not that there were competitions but the ukemi would try to attack and overcome the nage.

Of course, it´s difficult to see how effective Aikido is. One of the charms of Aikido is that it appears so effortless. My sensei never appears like a martial arts fighter, but just a normal guy making ordinary movements. But when you touch him, it´s incredible what force (but not physical strength) is in that movements.

**Togakure** · 11-11-2005, 00:10

Originally Posted by A.Saturnus

...Of course, it´s difficult to see how effective Aikido is. One of the charms of Aikido is that it appears so effortless. My sensei never appears like a martial arts fighter, but just a normal guy making ordinary movements. But when you touch him, it´s incredible what force (but not physical strength) is in that movements.

Yes indeed. I was trying to think of ways to describe what you just did, but despite several attempts, it just didn't read right. I thought it better to remain silent than paint an inaccurate picture. Thanks.