Dojocho's blog

by Bill Gleason Sensei (6th Dan) of Shobu Aikido of Boston
This article was first printed in the Shobu Aikido Aiki News newsletter (May 2001, Vol 2, No. 2).

When the founder passed away in 1969, sword training at the Honbu dojo in Japan ceased to exist as a part of the regular curriculum. At that time sword training was only available for select high ranking students and was conducted somewhat behind closed doors. Although the taking away of an opponents weapons continued to be a part of the testing process, teaching the use and handling of sword was, for all practical purposes, suspended completely.

Since that time the controversy over whether or not the practice of sword is really an integral part of, or even valuable to, aikido training has continued to intensify. There is little doubt however that Ueshiba Morihei O-sensei, the founder of aikido, considered it as an essential part of his teaching as well as his own training. He constantly used weapons, especially the sword, to show the principles of aikido. Why is swordsmanship so valuable for understanding the essence of aikido? If we view this question from an historical perspective the answer becomes quite clear.

I had the pleasure of visiting Sand Drift Aikikai (for the first time) over the weekend to attend a seminar with Robert Zimmerman Shihan of the Toronto Aikikai. While Sand Drift hosted the seminar, Grady Lane sensei of the Brevard Aikikai was hosting Zimmermann sensei.

This article was originally posted at: http://www.shuhari.com/site/view/ShuharisMeaning.pml

Shu Ha Ri is a term the Japanese use to describe the overall progression of martial arts training, as well as the lifelong relationship the student will enjoy with his or her instructor.

Please be advised that our Dojo Page has been updated, including new information regarding the payment of dues, mat fees for visitors, and information regarding children and teens training at our dojo.

If you have any questions, please contact me via our contact form HERE.

Thank you!

Dan Dease
Dojocho

Originally posted here: http://www.toitsu.de/texte/tohei_en.htm

Interview with Koichi Tohei and Shinichi Tohei

William Reed conducted the following interview with Master Koichi Tohei, along with his son and successor Shinichi Tohei (Waka Sensei), on May 19, 2000. The interview was conducted in Japanese, and then translated by William Reed with Tohei Sensei's approval.

I found this on YouTube and thought it was very interesting. Having had conversations with Frank sensei about these types of masters, I saw many similarities between what Frank described and what this guy can demonstrate. It also reminded me of Systema "hits" and how little energy they use. Take a look:

Here's a great aikido clip from Karl sensei's dojo, Shoshin Aikido of Montreal. If you're ever in Montreal, do yourself a favor and stop by and train with Karl. He's a great guy and a true aikidoka!