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Thoughts on Competition and Aikido

Bring up the word competition among aikidoka and the typical response is that Osensei disapproved of competition and that is pretty much the final word on the matter. It is a broad brush concept which seems accepted on all levels regarding competition. There are many good things about competition so let’s discuss the matter deeper instead of dismissing all of it.

What Just Happened?!

What just happened?! That experience on the mat when you execute an attack, then nage adeptly steps to avoid it, and blends perfectly to redirect you with such light pressure that you don’t even feel it – you end up on the ground wondering what on earth happened. It is such a wonderful thing I cannot help but smile and even laugh every time it happens. It is the ivory tower perfection that aikidodoka seek, and it is truly marvelous.

Atemi - Taboo or Integral to Aikido?

Atemi is a strike meant to compromise an attacker's balance. Many aikidodoka (aikido practitioners) are uncomfortable with striking, some remarkably so.

There seem to be two primary sources for hesitance to use atemi, at least that I have noticed first hand:
1) They believe strikes are meant to cause pain and injury, which is contrary to the principles of aikido as laid down by the founder of aikido.
2) Mature and civilized people have respect for others and are not violent people. They equate striking with savagery and are actively resistant to indulge in it.

Martial Arts and Violence - The Three Realms

Here is something for all martial artists, not just aikidoka, to consider. The martial arts world consists of three primary realms, where practitioners of each specialize in certain aspects of hand to hand combat. Why consider this? In the larger sense, to increase your understanding and perspective. In a more personal sense, to give you a reason to set aside your scorn for those from other realms.

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