SELF DEFENCE
The main problem with aikido as a self defence art is that the aim of aikido is to resolve conflict with the minimum damage to the attacker and the techniques reflect this attitude.
The training tends to reflect this attitude and students immediately begin to train in what are VERY advanced techniques. It is MOST difficult to control an aggressor and often this “problem” is solved by using compliant “attackers”.
THIS APPROACH IS WRONG.
The first lesson MUST be DO NOT GET HIT rather than immediately beginning with techniques which have no value at all until the basic principles are understood.
Basic training should teach basic PRINCIPLES not advanced techniques.
The first principle is GET OFF LINE. It is enough for a beginner to train simply in body movement and evasion rather than attempting to execute techniques in the first few practice sessions.
The main problem with aikido as a self defence art is that the aim of aikido is to resolve conflict with the minimum damage to the attacker and the techniques reflect this attitude.
The training tends to reflect this attitude and students immediately begin to train in what are VERY advanced techniques. It is MOST difficult to control an aggressor and often this “problem” is solved by using compliant “attackers”.
THIS APPROACH IS WRONG.
The first lesson MUST be DO NOT GET HIT rather than immediately beginning with techniques which have no value at all until the basic principles are understood.
Basic training should teach basic PRINCIPLES not advanced techniques.
The first principle is GET OFF LINE. It is enough for a beginner to train simply in body movement and evasion rather than attempting to execute techniques in the first few practice sessions.
Thanks again to the Koroko Kokoro Kai Aikido Dojo FB page for this.
www.aikido4beginners.co.uk
