Synopsis An accessible and highly readable introduction to the principles and practices of Aikido, this guide covers the fundamental training methods and techniques, the philosophical and spiritual dimensions, how to choose an instructor, and more. Includes a Glossary of frequently encountered terms and a biography of Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido. 71 illustrations & photos. From The PublisherAikido is the "Art of Peace," a discipline that emphasizes harmony and the peaceful resolution of conflict, practiced by over a hundred thousand Westerners. Far more than a self-defense technique, Aikido is a physical and spiritual discipline that aims at unifying the body and spirit with the natural forces of the universe, fostering compassion, wisdom, and fearlessness. This book serves as an accessible introduction to the basic principles and practices of this popular martial art. The topics covered include the biography of the Founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969) - perhaps history's greatest warrior - highlighting the key events that led to the development of Aikido; the fundamental training methods and techniques, illustrated by dozens of photographs; the philosophical and spiritual dimensions; the distinctive styles of the principal schools; a glossary of words commonly encountered; and suggestions for further reading.ReviewsFrom Library Journal As Stevens (The Secrets of Aikido, Shambhala, 1995) asserts in his introduction, this book is intended to be the answer to the question that parents and potential students may ask: "What is Aikido?" He gives an overview of this martial art, with emphasis on the founder, Morihei Ueshibia (1883-1969). Stevens also briefly explains the philosophy of Aikido. An extensive bibliography is provided for students curious for more detail. For many beginners, the physical aspects of the martial arts are the main attraction; photographs included here show basic moves, attacks, and counterattacks. This book sets out as a novice guide and accomplishes that task quite nicely. For large sports collectionsJ. Sara Paulk, Tifton-Tift County Lib., Ga.
From The PublisherAikido is the "Art of Peace," a discipline that emphasizes harmony and the peaceful resolution of conflict, practiced by over a hundred thousand Westerners. Far more than a self-defense technique, Aikido is a physical and spiritual discipline that aims at unifying the body and spirit with the natural forces of the universe, fostering compassion, wisdom, and fearlessness. This book serves as an accessible introduction to the basic principles and practices of this popular martial art. The topics covered include the biography of the Founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969) - perhaps history's greatest warrior - highlighting the key events that led to the development of Aikido; the fundamental training methods and techniques, illustrated by dozens of photographs; the philosophical and spiritual dimensions; the distinctive styles of the principal schools; a glossary of words commonly encountered; and suggestions for further reading.ReviewsFrom Library Journal As Stevens (The Secrets of Aikido, Shambhala, 1995) asserts in his introduction, this book is intended to be the answer to the question that parents and potential students may ask: "What is Aikido?" He gives an overview of this martial art, with emphasis on the founder, Morihei Ueshibia (1883-1969). Stevens also briefly explains the philosophy of Aikido. An extensive bibliography is provided for students curious for more detail. For many beginners, the physical aspects of the martial arts are the main attraction; photographs included here show basic moves, attacks, and counterattacks. This book sets out as a novice guide and accomplishes that task quite nicely. For large sports collectionsJ. Sara Paulk, Tifton-Tift County Lib., Ga.
ReviewsFrom Library Journal As Stevens (The Secrets of Aikido, Shambhala, 1995) asserts in his introduction, this book is intended to be the answer to the question that parents and potential students may ask: "What is Aikido?" He gives an overview of this martial art, with emphasis on the founder, Morihei Ueshibia (1883-1969). Stevens also briefly explains the philosophy of Aikido. An extensive bibliography is provided for students curious for more detail. For many beginners, the physical aspects of the martial arts are the main attraction; photographs included here show basic moves, attacks, and counterattacks. This book sets out as a novice guide and accomplishes that task quite nicely. For large sports collectionsJ. Sara Paulk, Tifton-Tift County Lib., Ga.