The Aikido Student Handbook

Rating:
Summary: A very useful book for new ( or prospective) aikidoka
Review: Having recently begun studying aikido, I had (of course) many questions: how to select a dojo; dojo etiquette; aikido's history; the different schools/branches, their similarities and differences, and how they came to be; how to wear a gi and tie an obi. O'Connor's book is a wonderful reference, answered most of my questions, and introduced me to many things I wouldn't even have thought to ask. This is not a picture book of aikido techniques, so if that's what you want, look for another book.

O'Connor walks the reader through the history and philosophy of aikido, which is very useful. He then, in short chapters peppered with photos and illustrations, answers common questions about etiquette, training methods, and, in general, "what to expect" when practicing aikido. Advanced students may find some of it very basic, but it was very valuable to me as a raw beginner. (My only gripe: no mention of the painful toe knuckles one gets when first learning to sit seiza for long periods of time! My sensei has impressive calluses on the tops of all his toes...)

Nobody wants to behave inappropriately or disrespectfully, and nobody wants to waste time doing something he will ultimately not like. O'Connor's book is very helpful in preparing new students for what to expect, and I recommend it without reservation.

Rating:
Summary: A very useful book for new ( or prospective) aikidoka
Review: Having recently begun studying aikido, I had (of course) many questions: how to select a dojo; dojo etiquette; aikido's history; the different schools/branches, their similarities and differences, and how they came to be; how to wear a gi and tie an obi. O'Connor's book is a wonderful reference, answered most of my questions, and introduced me to many things I wouldn't even have thought to ask. This is not a picture book of aikido techniques, so if that's what you want, look for another book.

O'Connor walks the reader through the history and philosophy of aikido, which is very useful. He then, in short chapters peppered with photos and illustrations, answers common questions about etiquette, training methods, and, in general, "what to expect" when practicing aikido. Advanced students may find some of it very basic, but it was very valuable to me as a raw beginner. (My only gripe: no mention of the painful toe knuckles one gets when first learning to sit seiza for long periods of time! My sensei has impressive calluses on the tops of all his toes...)

Nobody wants to behave inappropriately or disrespectfully, and nobody wants to waste time doing something he will ultimately not like. O'Connor's book is very helpful in preparing new students for what to expect, and I recommend it without reservation.

Rating:
Summary: Includes nothing on training
Review: This book proved to be a great intro to Aikido and martial arts in general (especially Japanese ones). It included discussions on practical Aikido, weapon forms, dojo edicate, everything (and it was the only one I have found that came straight out and said how long it takes to become a black belt - 5 years). But, if have already taken martial arts and know something about it, this book might be a little basic for your needs.

Rating:
Summary: A must have if you're just starting or thinking of beginning
Review: This is a great introduction BEFORE you enter the dojo to train. It is just what it says, a handbook. This book is a great guide for the beginning Aikido practitioner or for someone who is still investigating. It gives practical advice about how to find the right place to begin practice and what to expect once you begin practice. For more on Aikido see Greg O'Connor's second book.

Rating:
Summary: A must have if you're just starting or thinking of beginning
Review: This is a great introduction BEFORE you enter the dojo to train. It is just what it says, a handbook. This book is a great guide for the beginning Aikido practitioner or for someone who is still investigating. It gives practical advice about how to find the right place to begin practice and what to expect once you begin practice. For more on Aikido see Greg O'Connor's second book.

Rating:
Summary: Includes nothing on training
Review: This is not a very comprehensive book. Some of the material is duplicated throughout. There is nothing on the actual techniques or methods in the book. If you are interested only is something that discusses etiquette and the approach MENTALLY to training, then this is a great book.

Rating:
Summary: Helps keep your head on when starting Aikido
Review: When I started Aikido I bought The Aikido Student Handbook. It's been a great help on some of the questions I didn't know I had. ;) The Aikido Student Handbook helps you ask the right questions.