The Best Aikido eBooks for Beginners

Atemi: The Thunder and Lightning of Aikido revisits the source of the art by teaching the striking methods that made Ueshiba's techniques so effective. This is the most comprehensive text on striking in Aikido, and it begins with the notion that strikes should not be disregarded in modern dojo. It explores the common (yet mistaken) notion of atemi as a secondary aspect of Aikido, and argues that such an idea is incorrect, since O-Sensei's own teachings reveal that striking is the very core of the art.

The authors describe through brilliant and specific examples and clear photographs, how atemi is used in Aikido pins and throws while still keeping with the physical philosophy of the art. The journey continues as they then demonstrate how Ueshiba Morihei and some of his most important students viewed atemi and technique as one, instead of separate aspects of the art. The text is divided into three sections: Shodan (beginner's level), Chudan (intermediate level), and Jodan (advanced level). The final chapters suggest ways that O-Sensei taught his students how to develop internal power, which can be channeled into Aikido's powerful strikes. Atemi: The Thunder and Lightning of Aikido presents a thorough explanation of O-Sensei's teachings and suggests that many practitioners have only scratched the surface of the art's true nature.

Get your aikido training off to a great start--from basic footwork and throws to training and demonstrations. This martial arts guide is a perfect introduction to aikido for beginners. Are you planning to learn Aikido, but don't know where to begin? Are you looking for a teacher? Are you taking a class but confused by the unfamiliar terms used to describe the techniques? This aikido book offers an easy, yet comprehensive introduction to everything you need to know to feel confident and be successful.

You'll learn about:The origins of aikido--its philosophy, history and techniquesHow to find a teacher and a class that is right for youGetting ready--what happens in a typical Aikido class?The essentials--stances, strikes, grabs, throws, and pinsHow to complement your aikido training with ki exercises, multiple-person training, and freestyle exercisesHow to succeed in Aikido-- how to create an effective training program, test for belt promotion, and participate in competitions and tournamentsResources to help you further develop your Aikido skills.

Real-life applications of Aikido for self-transformation, conflict resolution, and joy. • Explains Aikido solutions for peacefully resolving difficulties that arise with intimidating and unpredictable people, those who are stubborn or don’t listen, insincere people who want something from you, and chaotic situations. • Presents Aikido’s step-by-step protocol for developing the receptiveness of the beginner’s mind and deescalating potentially violent or dangerous situations. • Shares stories of how Aikido helped the author transform interpersonal difficulties into peaceful interactions.

Illuminating the inner philosophical and practical aspects of Aikido, 47-year Aikido practitioner and 6th-degree black belt Susan Perry, Ph.D., uses personal stories of joy, achievement, and hardship to demonstrate real-life applications of the transformational principles of Aikido. She introduces the origins and techniques of Aikido, providing a brief biography of its founder, Morihei Ueshiba (O-Sensei), and compares his philosophy with that of Aristotle. She explains in detail how Aikido helped her resolve difficulties at work, as a student, and as a teacher/sensei. Through each story shared, the author offers a glimpse of the beginner’s mind, a state essential to personal transformation and also the key to transforming conflict into a peaceful interaction. Perry also shows how the tools of Aikido—the sword, bokken, and jo—not only help correct posture but also are symbols cutting through darkness, revealing the truth of reality. She discusses the importance of experiencing the beautiful qualities of the mountain forests, which calm and cleanse the spirit. And she explains how a deepening practice of this martial art leads to an aiki state of sincerity, inner peace, and boundless joy. Revealing how Aikido can help you face your fears and develop your heart and soul, this book shows how this martial art can help you embrace change, cultivate a strong center, and ultimately live a joyful life of engagement with the world.