This invaluable book analyses the principles that enable the student to learn Aikido efficiently. By understanding the various principles tine Aikidoka will gain the
ability to dissect Aikido into its parts, achieve a new understanding, develop a personal strategy and then apply that new knowledge in practice.

Discovering Aikido is targeted at the keen beginner and the intermediate student as well as the more advanced Aikido practitioner. The book will also be of wider interest as many of the principles that are discussed also relate to other martial arts such as Jujutsu and Judo.

The author assumes that the reader has begun to practice Aikido, or a related art, and begins with advice on etiquette, warming-up and posture, and then considers attack, technique, breakfalls, self-defense, methods of practice and much more. The sequence of the chapters follows a natural progression in terms of studying Aikido.

Many spend their lives searching for the elusive aiki, or fluid power, of Aikido.
Although no book can provide a perfect insight, this volume presents the serious practitioner with a better sense of direction and an improved understanding of what is often considered to be one of the most complex martial arts.

-A clearly written book that enables the student to learn Aikido in a proficient way

-Emphasizes the importance of both the 'individual' and independent learning

-Advocates that students should seek the principles, not the form, and then apply them when practicing technique

-Well illustrated with over 150 photographs and diagrams

About the Author:

Rupert M. J. Atkinson was born in Sheffield, England, and has studied Aikido and related Japanese arts for over twenty ears. A graduate in Japanese and Korean Studies, he lives in South Korea where he teaches Aikido under the umbrella of the Korean Aikido Federation, which is affiliated to the Akikai Hombu in Tokyo.

Length: 176 pages

Publication date: 2005