“One of the several influences of the increased availability of martial arts training is the lack of emphasis on the combat effectiveness in the modern budo…” The contemporary role-playing utilized by...
Archive - June 2010
Josh Gold“Koichi Tohei and his long-forgotten letter,” by Stanley Pranin
As a follow-up to yesterday’s blog consisting of an overview of Koichi Tohei Sensei’s early years in aikido, I would like to address a subject that has long been shunned. It is an important point...
“Aikido for Dummies,” a poem by Mark Shaughnessy
I saw a sign while in my car For an Aikido seminar That humbly promised to impart A path of peace through martial arts. The teacher was to be a man Of strength and wisdom from Japan, And I was nervous, I’ll admit, For...
“Alternative and Mainstream Budo,” by Nev Sagiba
One thing I’ve noticed over the years is that things are often opposite to what they appear to be. When the word “alternative” is used, I find myself asking, “Alternative to what, exactly?”...
Recommended reading: “Founder of Aikido (35): Birth Of The Kobukai Foundation” by Kisshomaru Ueshiba
The article below has been selected from the extensive archives of the Online Aikido Journal. We believe that an informed readership with knowledge of the history, techniques and philosophy of aikido is essential to the...
“Ping Pong Ball of Fear,” by Drew Gardner
Who could possibly be afraid of a featherweight, hollow, small plastic ball? Well, it has scared the hell out of me. While playing table tennis (ping-pong) with a skilled opponent, I fear losing the contest. I have won...