Greg O'Connor

from cover

Aikido is a unique martial art. Modern, sophisticated and highly evolved in its philosophy and ethics, it is beautiful to watch and exhilirating to perform.

Aikido is in fact an alternative to violence. Its aim is not to overcome the opponent, but to secure a safe conclusion for all. Therefore, it enables anyone, regardless of size, strength, gender or athletic ability, to defend themselves and others. Awareness of the effectiveness of Aikido not only as a self-defence method but also as a tool for leadership, conflict resolution, stress management and a profound way to healthy living is therefore increasing rapidly.

The Elements of Akido explains:

how aikido varies from other martial arts; how aikido translates into everyday living and enhances its quality; the benefits of aikido; the training methods, including the concept of Ki; how to find a reputable aikido teacher and school

'This wonderful compendium is the book I would have longed to have during my early years in the art'.--Stanley Pranin, Editor-in-chief, Aikido Journal

Greg O'Conor has studied Aikido and other martial arts for over twenty-five years. He is one of the few full-time professional certified Aikido instructors in the world. He is the founder and chief instructor of Aikido Centers of New Jersey and Akido Centers , Inc. and co-founder of Aikido Schools of New Jersey. He is the author of other books and articies on Aikido including The Aikido Student Handbook.

Contents

List of Illustrations, Acknowledgments, Foreword-Yoshimitsu Yamada
Introduction
1 What is Aikido?
2 A Brief History of Aikido
3 The Philosophy and Ethics of Aikido
4 Centering and Ki
5 The Look of Aikido
6 The Pracitce of Aikido
7 Benefits of Aikido Training
8 Aikido as a Way of Life
9 Finding an Aikido Teacher
Conclusion
Glossary of Japanese Terms
Further Reading
Useful Information
Index… (mehr)

from cover

'Here is a well organized selection of essentials that every student of Aikido can use. The topics covered are treated with respect and the light touch and humorous approach makes it easy to read and absorb the lessons. It illuminates the Aikido goal of personal growth, in the context of rigorous trainng, with clarity and strength. It's a book we've needed for a long, long, time.'--Mary Heiny, 6th Dan, Aikido teacher, Ottawa, Canada

'An excellent primer for anyone studying the art of Aikido or even thinking about it. It's a wonderful adjunct to learning Aikido and I wholeheartedly endorse it.'--Tom Crum, author of The Magic of Conflict

'What an inspiration for the beginner's mind! Our future on this earth depends greatly on how we inspire peace and teach our children and future generations. I highly recommend this incomparable work of love. A book of great magnitude.'--Pat Hendricks, 5th Dan, Chief Instructor, Aikido of San Leandro, California

'The Aikido Student Handbook is one of the top Aikido primers on the market today! Providing a detailed acount of what is expected from students training in an Aikido dojo, it answers two important questions (among others): 'What is Aikido?' and 'What is a dojo?' The Aikido Student Handgbook is a much needed book which I will urge my own students to read.'-Susan Perry, Editor in Chief, Aikido Today Magazine, Claremont, California

'Fabulous!...this book will help a lot of people.'-Terry Dobson, Aikido teacher, author of Aikido in Everday Life

Contents

Preface
Foreword
Introduction
About the Founder
About Aikido
What You Will Get from Aikido
The True Power of Aikido
What is a Dojo?
Looking for a Dojo
Common Questions
Joining a Dojo
Etiquette
Training in Aikido
Weapons in Training-Bokken and Jo
Promotion and Advancement
Conclusion
U.S.A.F. Test Requirements
Aikido Terms
Suggested Reading… (mehr)