More on Aikido

Aikido practice is becoming increasingly interesting. During our last practice we practiced with actual wooden swords. (Rather then before, when we practiced with short wooden staffs, meaning you could grab the tip). We learned some cool moves to disarm an opponent armed with a sword as well. (Yes, not too useful in today's world, but still pretty cool). We also learned this interesting move that involves grabbing the wrist a certain way and cause intense pain. Definitely something I want to try again.

Yesterday I went to an Aikido demonstration (and actually participated briefly). One thing about this, Aikido is extremely traditional and we had to follow some very traditional rules during the demonstration. (Definitely did a few "faux pas", our Aikido Sensei usually stopped us before we did something too wrong). Here are some of the rules:

1. Do not make noise or speak loudly around the changing rooms.

2. Bow to the Senseis when you pass them

3. Follow the special bowing ritual before getting into the performance area (get on your knees, bow twice, clap twice, do a third bow that you hold for several seconds)

4. All performers are to sit on the floor, when others perform you are either to sit in the Senza position (on your knees) or with your feet crossed. (Unless the Master of this school demonstrates, then you have to sit in Senza).

5. When all the performances are done, every group that performed bows to the "home" group. The "home" group remains until everyone else left the performance area.

What I definitely learned about this, is that sitting in the Senza for extended periods of time really hurts. Also that Aikido is absolutely awesome. Especially the last 2 performers, the second to last performer did a bunch of moves including knocking 8 people to the ground. The very last performer was the Sensei of the school and I believe the highest ranking master in all of Akita. He challenged his students to attack him in any way, he would send them flying in the air no matter what they did. The guy was probably in his 60s, not someone you want to get into a fight with.


Pictures on this are...coming, Since I didn't know how things would work, I did not get a chance to get my camera out of my bag and I ended up taking a lot of pictures but with my Sensei's camera. I should be able to pass those on, once I get them.