Master the Aikido Techniques

Deciding to learn Aikido seems easier than actually learning this art especially when you get to see hundreds of techniques. These techniques can be difficult at times and might appear to be confusing, but a little concentration and practice can make you master all the techniques of Aikido. So, get set to know how to learn and master the various techniques of Aikido.

Observing The Attacker
The first and the foremost technique of mastering Aikido is to observe the attacker or the Uke. Remember that usually in Aikido training, older students are the first one to be nagged, so it the best chance for the beginners to observe the attacker as the beginners will first play as attackers.

Follow The Instructor
Second, most important thing to remember while mastering the techniques of Aikido is that the beginner should observe how the attacker or uke takes ukemi for the instructor. This is important for the beginner to learn how he can follow the same method with same kind of movements to protect himself from uke. Observing movements of feet and hips is very important.

Observe Nage’s Movements
Third important tip for mastering the art of Aikido is that the beginner should watch out how the nage is using the extension of his arms and whether the palms of his hand are facing upwards or downwards. Also, watch the movement of the instructor and his final feet and arms position after the technique is over.

Reproduce What You See
During his own turn, the beginner should try to reproduce exactly the same thing he has observed his instructor or the uke doing. Concentration should not be lost while practicing Aikido, as it is the most vital part of the training that strengthens the mind along with the body.

Four Points To Remember

Apart from the above-mentioned tips, Aikido learners should keep the following four points in mind while Aikido training:

• * What and how the uke is performing.
• * How the instructor is moving his feet and arms.
• * How the upper body, arms and hands are moved both by the uke and the nage.
• * What is the final movement and how the instructor finishes the move.

Main Techniques

Mentioned below is a list of main techniques used in Aikido:

• * Tachiwaza-mae: Standing attacks from the front.
• * Tachiwaza-ushiro: Standing attacks from the rear.
• * Kogeki: Attacks in Aikido.
• * Kaeshiwaza: Counter Techniques.
• * Henkawaza: Changed Techniques.
• * Jodori: Defense against staff.
• * Suwariwaza: Tori and uke sitting.
• * Hanmi Handachiwaza: Tori sitting and uke standing attack.
• * Tantodori: Defense against knife.
• * Tachidori: Defense against staff.

General Principles

• * Not all the basics of Aikido are executable techniques.
• * Basic Aikido techniques should be reasonable for being performed.
• * Attacks forms that are not feasible should not be included in the basic training.
• * Aikido training should always start with taisabaki, which is an evasive movement.

Believe it or not, if you learn the above mentioned techniques, you will sooner or later master the art of Aikido.