The Essence of Aikido

Rating:
Summary: Excellent introduction to philosophy and martial aspects.
Review: Co-authored by an outstanding Aikido Sensei and one of his former students (an accomplished practitioner and instructor of several arts in his own right), "The Essence of Aikido" is precisely that. It contains an exploration of the philosophy, without which the true understanding of the art is (in my opinion) impossible. It also illustrates several of the basic techniques, including both empty hand techniques and more practical Aiki-based defenses to attacks with weapons, kicks, and the like.

A must for both those new to the art and the more experienced Aikidoka.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent introduction to philosophy and martial aspects.
Review: Co-authored by an outstanding Aikido Sensei and one of his former students (an accomplished practitioner and instructor of several arts in his own right), "The Essence of Aikido" is precisely that. It contains an exploration of the philosophy, without which the true understanding of the art is (in my opinion) impossible. It also illustrates several of the basic techniques, including both empty hand techniques and more practical Aiki-based defenses to attacks with weapons, kicks, and the like.

A must for both those new to the art and the more experienced Aikidoka.

Rating:
Summary: Don't Waste Your Time With Aikido!
Review: Having studied under the late Bill Sosa for a year and a half, and after reading this book, I can tell you don't waste your time with Aikido. Except for the black and white pictures, and both the defender and attacker wearing hakimas which makes it difficult to see the foot placement, this is a great book. That's if you truly believe that multiple attackers will get tired and give up after you have thrown them multiple times without causing any permanent injuries to them. Instead, I would suggest studying Aiki-jujitsu and supplementing your studies with "The Way and the Power: Secrets of Japanese Strategy" by Fredrick J. Lovret. Only then, will you have a true understanding of the essence of Aiki.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent Akido Primer
Review: This is an excellent book for all Aikido students. Easy to read and follow. Great book to understand what it is to start a martial art, espcially aikido. Basics are answered and this book will help you from your very first class. From dojo etiquette, how to fold your hakama, history, philosophy, basic techniques and waza.

Rating:
Summary: The best book out on Aikido fundamentals.
Review: While the text introduction of aikido is commendable, I thought that the quality of the photographs of this book was poor. Major shortcomings were graininess and lack of flow from frame to frame. Furthermore the angle of photography was poorly mapped out. Another major problem (in my opinion) was the insistence that both uke and shite wear hakama, which resulted in poor comprehension as to foot positioning. I have heard that Mr. Sosa is a very capable aikido teacher; in this sense it is a shame that the book does not do him justice