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