Structure of Aikido Kenjutsu & Taijutsu (Structure of Aikido, Vol 1)

Rating:
Summary: Great book for advanced aikidoka
Review: This is a very good volume of work that helps the aikido student learn how empty-hand techniques such as shiho-nage, irmi-nage and the 5 control holds all evolved from swordsmanship techniques. Anything that aids a student in realizing the purposes behind a technique can give him or her a better grasp of how to apply it in the dojo. Philosophically, this volume also aids the aikido student in realizing the peaceful intent of aikido. Looking at some of the photo series depicting sword vs. sword conflict, you get a real grasp of the fact that Ueshiba Morihei took violent, blood-spilling killing techniques and modified them into non-violent, peaceful restraining techniques that inflict no injury. In Aikido, sword techniques that were designed to disembowel opponents have been modified to allow a diligent student to overcome a violent attack with a minimum of force or effort. Gaku Homma has done aikido enthusiasts all over the world a great service with this book. I eagerly look forward to his next book, in which he promises to do for the jo, or short staff, what he has done for the wooden sword in this book.