Talk:Aikido

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[edit] Featured Article Promotion

Congratulations to all the people involved in the work leading to the promotion! jmcw 13:38, 31 August 2007 (UTC)

[edit] Link to Gallery of real Aikido Pictures and Glossary

I think a way to improve this article would be more pictures, or sub articles that include more pictures. What a glossary of every Japanese Aikido word? Many are listed in this article but I think more exist. I think there could be some great sub-articles written relating to Aikido. Where do you focus your effort next? Tkjazzer 22:54, 1 September 2007 (UTC)

[edit] "Grappling"?

Somehow this doesn't sound right. I don't remember doing a lot of "grappling" recently in my dojo.

What are people's views on this? And what would be an alternative description, which would surely be better? —Preceding unsigned comment added by Kerledan (talk • contribs) 09:34, 10 September 2007 (UTC)

Try reading the definition at grappling, it includes joint locks and throws. --Nate1481( t/c) 11:35, 10 September 2007 (UTC)
Well, I did read the definition at grappling , of course, or how could I have commented on it? And I don't think it is the right word to apply to aikido. It's too much associated with wrestling. —Preceding unsigned comment added by Kerledan (talk • contribs) 10:21, 15 September 2007 (UTC)
We just had this discussion a couple weeks ago. Look in the talk archives. Do you have a suggestion you'd like to make? Transentient 16:19, 19 September 2007 (UTC)
At the gross level of taxonomy being used in the box, grappling is most accurate. JJL 17:40, 19 September 2007 (UTC)

'Grappling'is quite wrong here. Aikido is characterised by a lack of grappling techniques: how can you 'grapple'with multiple attackers? Grappling implies wrestling. Aikido isn't wrestling. Contrast with judo. Let's look at another example of a 'gross taxonomy' to use JJL's observation. If I say a whale is a subset of fish I am quite wrong except that a whale has some features which could be considered fish-like. But it's not a fish. Aikido has some features which could be considered grappling like, but it certainly isn't grappling. So I suggest a change here.

This is the discussion page, so shall we discuss? Kerledan 14:25, 20 September 2007 (UTC)

An excellent way to begin our discussion would probably have been for you to suggest something better, if you don't like grappling. 208.49.172.2 20:46, 20 September 2007 (UTC)
But having to come up with an alternative before expressing reservations about something would mean that vast areas of human innovation and discovery would not happen! And anyway, it's for just this sort of thing that wikis work so well, there are some interesting replies. I *still* don't like 'grappling', indeed I can't offer an obvious alternative, but, well, perhaps there is one out there somewhere. Kerledan 16:33, 21 September 2007 (UTC)
Well, the other options appear to be striking, kicking, punching, or weaponry. I think the use here is consistent with the entry at Grappling. Subdividing things too finely defeats the purpose of the infobox. JJL 14:38, 20 September 2007 (UTC)
Grappling may imply wrestling, but it is not equivalent to or interchangable with wrestling. Wrestling is a specific subset of grappling (one that usually focuses on pinning techniqes, and excludes throwing or breaking techniques). Grappling includes the study of:
  • pins
  • joint locks
  • throws
  • clinching
  • choke holds
As long as you're doing at least one of these, you're grappling. Aikido's primary technical focus is upon throwing and joint locking. If throwing and joint locking are grappling, then aikido is grappling. a=b, b=c, so a=c. Bradford44 14:41, 20 September 2007 (UTC)

being grabbed, and then doing action that results in that person being thrown, or doing action that results in a joint lock or pin, is most DEFINITELY grappling. I'm not sure what else you could call it. Wwilson 1 14:46, 20 September 2007 (UTC)

What about the Japanese wikipedia pages on aikido? Perhaps there's a term we could borrow. Could someone who understands Japanese take a look and see how they classify things? I still don't like 'grappling', but thanks for the contributions so far. Kerledan 16:33, 21 September 2007 (UTC)
I really like grappling, though I'd prefer it cross-listed as grappling and striking. Since we have to pick one, in my opinion, grappling is the best category in which to place Aikido. 69.140.235.229 14:14, 23 September 2007 (UTC)

Should the the field in the template to be changed to 'focus' in a similar way to the Martial arts article, to reflect that most styels may include amny thigns even if they focus on one area. -- Nate1481 (talk • contribs) 08:04, 24 September 2007 (UTC)

That's not a bad idea, maybe you should bring it up at the WP:WPMA talk page. There has been a similar problem ongoing at jujutsu, where people feel that "primarily grappling" is insufficient detail for the infobox. Perhaps "primary focus" instead of "style"? Bradford44 17:17, 24 September 2007 (UTC)
This seems to be a problem at many martial arts pages, just as it is when speaking to many martial artists--everyone feels that their style is "complete" and that whatever a person might want may be found in it. I frequently see martial arts pages that will define iaido as "primarily weapons, with striking, flying kicks, joint locks, pressure points, throws, groundwork, and telekinesis" (well, maybe I'm being a bit hyperbolic here). People add striking in at Judo as technically it includes atemi-waza. This kind of tendency to expand can make the descriptions useless even if they are not strictly speaking incorrect. Unless a relatively short list of allowable categories in the taxonomy is created, and styles are limited to one category as their "focus" (even if that focus is "mixed" which is also an over-used term), we'll be back to square one.
Well, this is a bigger issue than Aikido can solve, but I've had it on my mind and your mention of it got me thinking again. JJL 13:06, 25 September 2007 (UTC)
Started the discussion here If on the template we add a description saying "whatever do you spend more than 50% of you class doing, that's the focus, everything else is supporting; describe it in the article not the info box" it would make it clearer. As to over using mixed, I whole heartedly agree, Jujutsu is technically mixed, but you spend most of the class learning locks & throws ,a few strikes yes but not lots. Other of arts include bits of grappling, karate has trips & sweeps but lising take downs as a focus or mixed because it included them is misleading, it focuses on kickes & punches. --Nate1481( t/c) 13:53, 25 September 2007 (UTC)


The problem with 'grappling' and the whole host of terms is I think that they don't map onto (in this case) a Japanese martial art. We are using English, but most of us will use quite a lot of Japanese terms in aikido. I think this is because these terms don't translate well, and that's the root of the issue with 'grappling' etc and the reason for my being uncomfortable with it. To give an example: 'nikkyo' *might* be tranlsated into English as 'second principle', but I wouldn't risk it. It is, simply, 'nikkyo', and needs to be given a gloss in English, not a translation. Those of us who have learnt nikkyo have it in our vocabularies and don't us 'second principle' or some other attempt at translation; if someone asked us what it is we'd give a short explanation, not attempt to translate. So I suggest that changes should be made to the info box to reflect as Natel1481 mentions: these changes should put the specialist terms (Japanese in this case) with a gloss in English for each. Kerledan 16:06, 26 September 2007 (UTC)


Hello fellow aikidoka, and happy new year! I know this has been much discussed already here and in the archives. I agree that 'grappling' is technically in the right ballpark and perfectly encompasses joint locks, throws and pins. I also understand Peter's viewpoint, quote "The definition of grappling is given in the first line of the grappling article and correctly in my opinion has little to do with how training occurs but the type of techniques available. Peter Rehse 17:37, 26 August 2007". I think what is bothering me about the term is the subtle difference in spirit or style of technique of the word - to me it implies fighting, struggling and 'trying to throw' each other. This sort of contradicts the rest of the article (and indeed as you know the goals of aikido itself) which is describing blending and harmony. I wonder if this could be detrimental to promoting aikido to people who are looking for a martial art like aikido, but come to the wrong conclusion about it because of the word 'grappling'? I see myself still a relative beginner (1st Dan), but I know that if I feel any struggle when uke attacks, I'm not doing the technique correctly (whether that be in position, timing, centralised extension, flow, harmony, using too much tension...). Oh, and this struggle happens most of the time for me by the way ;-) The more I 'try and throw' uke, the less likely the throw will happen. I agree that an alternative focus is difficult to find, and there doesn't seem to be a better one available. Maybe we could agree that 'grappling' is a best-fit solution, rather than the ideal one. However I totally agree with Peter in that it would be beneficial to at least change the text 'Aikido is primarily a grappling art...' to 'Aikido is an art...'. Polygonuk (talk) 19:10, 9 January 2008 (UTC)
Agreed. I took a stab and rewording that paragraph - if anyone has a strong objection, revert the change - or feel free to morph it further! Speaking of Peter, I wonder what he is up to. I noticed last week that he hasn't been active on Wikipedia in quite a while.—Mrand T-C 20:17, 9 January 2008 (UTC)
The reorganised version is much better, describe aikido first, classify it afterwords. On Polygonuk's point, all I'd say is that maybe the first response definition of grappling is to narrow? --Nate1481( t/c) 09:42, 10 January 2008 (UTC)

[edit] Angie

Would Angie from Trauma Center deserve a mention? Or should I keep my trap shut? She does know Aikido. Look at the episode Infiltration in TC:UTK or TC:SO. THOMASNATOR 09:52, 24 September 2007 (UTC)

I don't think we should add people/actors that know aikido. (Steven Segal isn't mentioned, too.) First I thought you could track them in a seperate list, but no... well, maybe as a people category? --Goonies (Tell me!) 12:22, 24 September 2007 (UTC)
Correct, trivia is discouraged. Bradford44 17:00, 24 September 2007 (UTC)
You could start a List of celebrity aikidoka page. I suggest that you model it off this 'List of celebrity judoka' or this 'List of Celebrity Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners' and link to it in the 'See also' section as is done in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu article, or from elsewhere as I did for the Judo article. --David Broadfoot (talk) 11:42, 29 January 2008 (UTC)

[edit] Criticism Section

I think there are a couple of problems with the criticism section of this, otherwise very good, article. Firstly, the sentence stating that 'it suffers from a lack of realism'. This could be said of most, if not all, martial arts as they are practised today - in karate, for example, one does not physically harm another person, the same can be said of iaido, kenjutsu, shaolin etc. etc. In addition, the techniques used in aikido, with the exception of techniques that are specifically designed to break an elbow, for example, are generally implemented with 'full intent', both on behalf of uke and tori. Indeed 'full intent' is very important, particularly with atemi and particularly in Iwama and Yoshinkan forms. The techniques are also practised in response to multiple types of attack (grabs, punches, etc).

Secondly, the point about 'never resisting' is false. To truely perfect ones technique, resistance is required. By practising with a compliant partner, ones technique will suffer because there is no need to perfect the technique. Therefore, in order to progress, one must train with a non-compliant partner, and one must resist when acting as uke. This is also a part of 'full intent'. I think the article should reflect this in some way. Telemeister —Preceding unsigned comment added by 211.30.201.172 (talk) 13:25, 28 October 2007 (UTC)

Read the section - it is the critique of those outside aikido which was being addressed.Peter Rehse 15:52, 28 October 2007 (UTC)
Welcome to Wikipedia. One your first paragraph: While a lack of realism can be identified in the training methods of most martial arts, when applied to aikido, the criticism seems to encompass a more broad picture, including up to it being nearly useless for self defense to all but a few select people (near "masters") in the world. On the second paragraph, it is my understanding that there are some aikido styles which train with the goal of there being basically no resistance, at all, ever. Having said all this, if you can come up with some improved wording on one or more of these topics, feel free to propose it here! —Mrand T-C 19:52, 28 October 2007 (UTC)

Thank you Peter and Mrand. I don't believe that having a critique that aims to satisfy the ignorant is a goal of wikipedia. As for it being 'nearly useless' for self defense, I would seriously question that. Perhaps this is more of a perception than reality. The Tokyo Riot Police are trained in Aikido (Yoshinkan Aikido on the Senshusei course). I might be mistaken, but I believe the US Secret Service use several Aikido techniques in the course of their work - particularly Koshi-Nage and Nikkyo.

I have been involved with Aikido in Australia for a long time now, and I do not know of any aikido style that preaches a lack of resistance. Of all the styles listed in the 'aikido styles' section, the Ki Society is the only style with which I have little experience, so it may be possible that they don't resist in training but I doubt it. I will have a look at some of my books and see if I can dig up some references. User:Telemeister —Preceding unsigned comment added by 211.30.201.172 (talk) 23:13, 28 October 2007 (UTC)

I think you folks are confusing Uke with nage in terms of resistance. In an Ideal Aikido world, uke would be thrown no matter how he tried to 'resist', and nage would throw him without needing to 'resist' anything himself. The only major problem with resistance I see around here, is some folks 'resistance' to the idea of Aikido being a nice practical martial art on multiple levels. Wwilson 1 00:25, 29 October 2007 (UTC)

Just a reminder the section was included because lack of it was a stubling block to Featured Article status. It was demanded by Wikipedia editors. They are actually right - the aritcle should not be written for an aikido audiance but a general one and one of the things that a general audience tends to ask (especially after perusing the martial arts forums) is the question of aikido's effectiveness. For the actual debates please see the archives. My personal back ground and belief has always included resistance training in aikido but those that avoid it all together are out there.Peter Rehse 10:30, 29 October 2007 (UTC)
Judging a martial art based on youtube clips is very common in this day and age. I don't think it is so much the case that the way the art is practiced is under fire for involving a lack of resistance; rather, it is that when non-practitioners watch clips of shihans doing techniques it looks to them as though uke is unresisting. In many cases this is because the shihan is good. :) Transentient 14:03, 29 October 2007 (UTC)
Regardless, it's a common criticism of aikido that it appears to be harder to apply to self-defense/is trained in a less realistic fashion, and hence that criticism should be acknowledged IAW the ideas of WP:NPOV. JJL 14:24, 29 October 2007 (UTC)
It seems like some people are missing the point that the criticism section doesn't necessarily deal with what is wrong with aikido (if anything). The point is to include what aikido's detractors believe is wrong with aikido, and the purported reasons therefor. People (particularly some anon people who keep wandering by) seem to keep getting bent out of shape that the article is saying aikido sucks, when in fact all the article is saying is that some people think aikido sucks. In reality, the article properly presents various viewpoints without drawing any conclusions as to the validity of such viewpoints. If negative viewpoints are notable and properly referenced, debate regarding their accuracy or validity is beyond the scope of this talkpage. Bradford44 17:23, 29 October 2007 (UTC)
I understand the point of criticism, but this section, rather than explicitly dealing with 'beliefs' or 'perceptions' presents itself as being factual, without giving proper reference. I believe it does draw a conclusion without reference - for example "forms of practice in which the training partner never resists any aspect of the technique ". This presents itself as being fact without reference (to either fact or belief). Bradford44 is right in stating that if negative viewpoints are notable and properly referenced, debate regarding their accuracy or validity is beyond the scope of this talkpage. Unfortunately, they are not properly referenced and do not present them selves as 'perceptions'.
JJL states that it is a common criticism of aikido that it appears to be harder to apply to self-defense and hence that crticism should be acknowledge. This sort of statement needs to be referenced though. For example, Shioda Sensei (Dynamic Aikido, 1968) talks about the length of time it takes to train a student and how a particular technique is not as important as developing reflex actions and 'aiki' awareness. I still believe that this section needs more work.Telemeister
To be honest I feel the secitons main failing is how tame it is, the "complain:response" style is not in the best interests of the article as the section reads like a some of the self justifying section in the various created 5 minuets ago articles on dubious arts. The section also implies that a majority have adapted to the criticism, which is misleading as the normal response seems to be that non-compliant training is not needed, or what is referred to internally as such would not usually class so by the criticiser. I am coming from a external perspective (look @ my profile for my MA background) but the section needs to be actually critical --Nate1481( t/c) 13:32, 2 November 2007 (UTC).
I completely agree with Nate, here. I've always assumed that the criticism section would be fleshed out more over time, but after its initial creation to get through FA, it has gone untouched. The truth is, many criticisms are made about aikido, and some are more fair and accurate than others, but at least all of the notable or serious criticisms (with references) need to be addressed in a serious, rather than dismissive, manner. Bradford44 15:35, 2 November 2007 (UTC)
I can think of a place that you could source criticisms, not a reliable source but would list most of the common ones. It is however highly critical --Nate1481( t/c) 16:02, 2 November 2007 (UTC)
My response is identical to Bradford44's. I created it the section during FA to get the ball rolling, but I don't have the time or resources to find additional well sourced criticisms. For the most part, "responses" to the criticisms should be addressed by the article itself, not in this section.—Mrand T-C 17:44, 2 November 2007 (UTC)

Perhaps that injury paragraph in the section should be moved. Its not a critism per se but I am not sure where it should go.Peter Rehse 18:37, 2 November 2007 (UTC)

Perhaps under "3.1 General fitness and training"? --Mike Searson 18:40, 2 November 2007 (UTC)
I thought so but the end of the Uke and Nage section also seems to fit in parts.Peter Rehse 18:45, 2 November 2007 (UTC)
Bradford's edits have addressed most of my problems, the section now acknowledges the criticisms and dose not try to directly answer them, and it is balanced in that the criticisms are stated not championed. While not finished (it's a wiki) it is now a good section that can be steadily developed rather than a 'tagged-on' dismissal. --Nate1481( t/c) 16:41, 5 November 2007 (UTC)


[edit] strikes

i thought it was a well known criticism that most Aikido dojos rarely teach striking and therefore many aikido practitioners have a very unusual way of "throwing a strike" when doing drill work their partner - or is this just an well known observation? Does not any reference say this? And the no kicking bit even though O-sensei was a great kicker... aren't there more criticisms about that anywhere in the literature? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 75.47.161.106 (talk) 07:20, 30 October 2007 (UTC)

Striking is extremely important in Iwama and Yoshinkan styles of aikido, I can not speak to other styles though. I have heard this, but mainly on martial arts forums, which aren't he best places to get information. Westbrook and Ratti (Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere) discuss the importance of the attack. As for the no kicking, I have seen it done (very rarely though) in Aikido training (a version of yonkyo was applied) - I don't remember reading anything about it though. User:Telemeister
Good atemi, as well as good attacks, are considered very important by a number of different aikido styles. However, no (non cross-training) aikido school that I'm aware of actually studies how to deliver strikes. This is a common criticism - there is a difference between an aikido school that trains as if striking skills were very important and incorporates strikes in its aikido techniques (which there are quite a few of), and a hypothetical school that actually trains its students in how to strike. Bradford44 15:40, 2 November 2007 (UTC)

[edit] citations

much of this current articles' citations comes specifically from one source

while I do not doubt it's validity, and while I think it is an excellent source. For the good of the article, I feel it might be wise to diversify the citation sources. Even if that means tracking down the original publications the "Encyclopedia of Aikido" was based on.

[edit] shihōnage subpage?

we should make a subpage for shihōnage. -- a lot of people would click the proposed link in the criticism section since it relates to known deaths in aikido training. Tkjazzer 22:32, 4 November 2007 (UTC)

I still think people would like to know more about what shihōnage is besides just a throw that locks the shoulder joint... a picture maybe? I think people see death and want to know what it is exactly - so why not make a subpage? Tkjazzer (talk) 05:34, 31 December 2007 (UTC)
People who are that interested in one detail can follow a link or even google for specialized websites. This is only Wikipedia, not the whole universe.Wegesrand (talk) 08:34, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

[edit] romaji

As a Japanese translator by trade, I can't say that I've spent more than 2 minutes of all the time I've learned Japanese studying the various systems of Japanese romanization. I've seen at least two ways to write things, I learned the names of the two systems and my teacher always used the less popular one. The next time someone goes through and switches all the romanizations around I'd like to see the rationale or logic behind such a change explained. I'm wondering whether it's not just a game of, "I learned romanization this way so it's the right way", which would be unfortunate. I personally thought the changes just made the romaji less legible. If anyone feels differently feel free to change it back. Let's all please remember that romanization of Japanese is not Japanese, so there is more than one way to do it and there is no need to be overly picky over a 'fake' language.Wwilson 1 22:26, 12 November 2007 (UTC)

Wayne makes a great point here, which I just want to follow up a little more specifically on as it relates to the terms used in this article (especially in case the editor whom Wayne reverted is following along). We use Revised Hepburn romanization on Wikipedia, and for two reasons: 1. it's by far more common than the other major system, Kunrei; and more importantly, 2. the WP:MOS-JP says so, and if you don't like it, take it up there. That said, the anon editor's changes were primarily to things not covered by any rule of Hepburn romanization. Specifically, they spaced out all of the compound words, such as "iriminage" → "irimi nage" and "tenchinage" → "tenchi nage". This is neither right nor wrong, although they are perhaps best regarded as compound words. I sometimes write them with hyphens, for example. Nevertheless, everyone should understand that this article is intended to reflect as inclusive a view of aikido as possible, and I believe these terms are most often written as single words, with neither spaces nor hyphens. One exception is nikyō, which is very frequently written with two k's (even on the English version of Aikikai Honbu's website). This doesn't change the fact that the word is pronounced にきょう, and not にっきょう, and we therefore romanize it strictly according to the Hepburn system, with one k. At any rate, I'll stop rambling; my point is just that striving to be encyclopedic includes rigorous attention to detail and consistency, and to that end we choose systematic ways to present various types of material and do our best to stick to them. Bradford44 04:10, 13 November 2007 (UTC)
Much better said than me Bradford, I think I learned Kunrei, I remember it being awkward, with ch sounds being spelled with a 't'. Anyway, you said it all better than me!Wwilson 1 16:26, 13 November 2007 (UTC)
Two cents from an outsider, i.e. non-linguist, I struggle with English...
The spaced/hyphenated versions are easier for someone unfamiliar with the words to get there head/tongue round, which in an encyclopaedia's is an important consideration. The hyphenated version would seem the closest to a group of kanji being used to produce a compound word to my mind, and if there is no hard an fast rule of right and wrong the question should be which is most useful. --Nate1481( t/c) 16:41, 13 November 2007 (UTC)

[edit] Injuries

I guess a common injury might be a carpet-burn (mat-burn) from being "dragged"/ rubbing the mats. Should we add it? Tkjazzer (talk) 18:29, 9 December 2007 (UTC)

In my school, we like to say that there's a difference between getting an injury and getting hurt. Getting hurt means you experience pain, discomfort, cuts, scrapes, bruises, etc... An injury is something that prevents you from coming back and getting hurt some more tomorrow. Getting hurt is part of training, while injuries should be taken seriously and care should be taken to avoid them. I don't think mat-burn is particularly worth mentioning. Bradford44 (talk) 01:18, 10 December 2007 (UTC)
I agree. I used to get more "hurt" wrestling with my brother when we were kids than I do on the mat.—Mrand T-C 02:30, 10 December 2007 (UTC)
I would agree with your assessment Bradford, at least in that differentiating pain and injury is important. But if the article doesn't mention that things such as mat burn or minor scrapes and bruises are a common part of correct Aikido training, then it's not comprehensive like an FA should be. It doesn't necessarily need to be framed as a criticism, it just needs to be mentioned. You can't assume that readers know that some pain is a natural part of Aikido training. VanTucky talk 02:44, 10 December 2007 (UTC)

The other thing I would somehow mention is chance of injury from someone throwing someone in to someone else. It seems to be mentioned in most aikido introduction videos. Tkjazzer (talk) 04:24, 31 December 2007 (UTC)

[edit] Yoshimitsu Yamada

http://www.nyaikikai.com/yamada.asp Should this article link in a see also section? Tkjazzer (talk) 18:36, 9 December 2007 (UTC)

Nope, it's already linked from the Yoshimitsu Yamada] article.—Mrand T-C 02:42, 10 December 2007 (UTC)

[edit] criticism - slapping the ground

while some styles slap on falls and others don't - I think I definitely am critical of slapping the ground while falling down. I'm not an aikido expert but I do know physics - I understand the concept of making more area - but slapping the ground just adds additional force to an impact. What is up with this? I'm watching a Christian Tissier DVD and the uke (spelling?) is just slapping the ground like crazy... what's the point? I'm sure someone has published this somewhere and we can find a reference for an official criticism - what are your thoughts? 75.47.188.212 (talk) 22:56, 9 December 2007 (UTC)

When I slap, I try to do so without activating my arm or shoulder muscles. I.E., I don't *hit* the ground with my hands and arms with added force, I let them fall with the same momentum as my body. Therefore, no "additonal" force." Having said that, it is absolutely not unique to aikido, and I'm certain it didn't start with aikido. In my opinion, it doesn't belong here.—Mrand T-C 02:39, 10 December 2007 (UTC)

[edit] Recent edits mentioning practice of Iai batto-ho by aikido schools

I reverted the following addition: "Sword-drawing techniques or Iai batto-ho are also sometimes practiced to supplement the training of forms. It is included in the syllabus of Birankai International." It also included a reference to Birankai North America's homepage.

I don't doubt the truth of the assertion that sword-drawing techniques are practiced by some aikido programs. However, I see several problems with including this in the article. First, the article attempts to include as inclusive a view of aikido as possible, and aikido schools or organizations with iai training in their formal curriculums are in the extreme minority. Furthermore, use of the term "iai batto-ho", which literally means "iai sword drawing methods" ('iai' doesn't have a good translation) is in the extreme minority even among schools of swordsmanship. Also, singling out Birankai International, a school that doesn't even have a wikipedia article, as an example gives the appearance of promoting that school (of course, it might be the only one that teaches "iai batto-ho", which is another reason not to mention it).

In any event, a featured article such as this requires rigorous referencing. If a secondary source could be given for the actual point cited, namely that "sword-drawing techniques ... are also sometimes practiced ...," I might feel differently. However, a citation to Birankai's website's iai section only supports the fact that Birankai practices iai, not that the supplementary practice of iai by some aikido programs is anywhere close to notable enough to include in this article. Please feel free to respond to my concerns if you disagree. Bradford44 (talk) 02:56, 4 January 2008 (UTC)

[edit] Possible minor edits to consider

Is it worth slipping in Kenshiro Abbe's name as the teacher sent to England in 1955?

Kaitenage is more often referred to as 'Tumbling throw' than 'Rotary Throw' in 'Ki' styles. Would an experienced Japanese translator care to offer an opinion as to which is the better translation?

Nile (talk) 04:37, 31 January 2008 (UTC)


[edit] On the Main Page

Apparently ~75% vandalism isn't extreme enough for semi-protection --Nate1481( t/c) 14:49, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

While I understand the intent of wikipedia is to be as open to editing, including anonymous editing, as possible, it does seem a bit on the ridiculous side to waste a large number of editors time reverting nearly every edit. I suppose you could look at is as this article being a magnet for all the vandals, so its easy to undo it in one place rather than chasing them all over wikipedia. I, for one, can't wait until we get WP:Flagged_revisions/Sighted_versions.—Mrand T-C 15:27, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

[edit] Someone seems to like messing with this article...

I've deleted a number of edits regarding "sugar cane" or another article someone was trying to add. I apologize if I didn't explain the deletions. I've also forgotten to sign my name. J-Guy (talk) 02:34, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

[edit] Is this in error?

Aikido techniques are normally performed by "blending" or "egging" with the motion of the EGG, rather than directly opposing the EGG. The EGG redirects the EGG's momentum, using minimum effort, with various types of throws or joint locks.[3]


I'm no expert in martial arts or editing wikipedia, but the 'EGG' references do not seem correct. Zupkuck (talk) 13:34, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

That was the result of a vandal. It's been undone. Thanks. —Mrand T-C 14:20, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

[edit] Really cool!

I really enjoyed this article and hope there are more like it out there!Historybuffc13 (talk) 02:47, 1 February 2008 (UTC)

[edit] Main page for another couple days

Howdy all, Be on the watch for vandalism for the next few days... although it is no longer the featured article of the day (195 edits in one day!), the main page keeps links to previous featured articles for at least two more days, giving vandals easy access to the page. Despite the majority of the 195 edits being vandalism, the page received some nice improvements... you can see the diff that shows before and after.—Mrand Talk • C 00:10, 1 February 2008 (UTC)

[edit] Weird language template on italicized words?

What's up with the use of the {{transl}} template for all of the italicized Japanese words? All this seems to do is render the letters in a font used for kanji, making them harder to read and look wierd. I'm inclined to remove the template unless someone has a good reason why it should stay. Bradford44 (talk) 02:57, 10 February 2008 (UTC)

[edit] Aikido's parenthood?

The infobox currently lists aikido's parenthood as "aiki-jūjutsu; judo; jujutsu; kenjutsu; sōjutsu". Are all of these appropriate? The Jujutsu article describes it as "a blanket term for a wide variety of grappling-related disciplines", while aikido was specifically derived from Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu, which is already listed. And even though Ueshiba studied Judo at one time, I've haven't seen it named as a significant influence on aikido before. 75.15.117.224 (talk) 13:40, 1 March 2008 (UTC)

Partial answer found on a dicussion forum: "When Kano sent his students to learn from Morihei Ueshiba, Ueshiba was still calling the art aikijujutsu (even, specifically, daito ryu aikijujutsu). They used the scroll method of recognizing accomplishment--not belts. Kano and his students seem to have had an influence in "trimming" some of the more dangerous techniques from aikijujutsu much as Kano trimmed down some of the jujutsu." --David Broadfoot (talk) 01:50, 2 March 2008 (UTC)

[edit] uke vs. attacker

I've reverted a change of wording throughout the article from attacker to uke, but would like to discuss this further:

  • In looking at definitions, I don't believe the use of the word attacker is incorrect.
  • uke, while not technically incorrect,
    1. is not likely to be well understood by the general population, and therefore shouldn't be used over and over in the article (unless it is the only accurate term, which I believe, is not the case)
    2. sometimes refers to someone that is a trained/skilled attacker. Aikido obviously defends against everyone, not just skilled/trained attackers, so using uke seems to narrow the scope too much.

Yooden, could you explain why you believe the word "Attacker" would be wrong?

Opinions from anyone else? Thanks!—Mrand Talk • C 14:35, 14 April 2008 (UTC)

Uke is the term commonly used in aikido which would be one argument in it's favour. --Nate1481(t/c) 14:45, 14 April 2008 (UTC)
I understand what you are saying, but do you typically refer to a possible street attacker as an uke? I personally reserve uke for training partner, but maybe that's just me. —Mrand Talk • C 22:24, 14 April 2008 (UTC)
Note that I have not replaced all instances of attacker. --Yooden ☮
I learned that in Aikido, one does not have an attacker and a defender, but two partners practicing. One is applying a technique, the other is receiving it. If nage starts thinking of his partner as an attacker, not only can he not do the technique properly, he is also not practising Aikido. (There is also a higher risk for injury for either one.)
Yes, this a somewhat philosophical explanation, because that's what Aikido is, somewhat philosophical. It is not a physical exercise regime, nor a way to injure an attacker or even primarily a way to defend oneself in a fight. If that means that Aikido "suffers a lack of realism", that's too bad. The nature of uke, or the difference between attacker and uke is an important concept in Aikido.
Note that all this only refers to the style I learn, Tendoryu. I'm just a beginner, but I had the opportunity to listen to Shimizu Sensei a few times, and that's what I understood.
So, back to Wikiland, I think the article would meet all aspects if it would use uke and nage and explain them in all their glory in a section of their own, much like we have now, but earlier. That way, the reader will be able to understand the concept and the rest of the article. If they are not willing to learn what uke is, they won't understand Aikido anyway.
About your second point, I did not replace all instances of attacker. Especially referring to real fights, uke would make no sense. (An uke is not necessarily skilled or trained though.) --Yooden ☮
Howdy Yooden, and thank you for the detailed explanation. I don't want to get into a style discussion because there are many styles, ranging from nearly passive to quite aggressive - and we have to try to write the article in a way that it covers the majority of the styles. In the style you study, what do you call the action(s) that uke performs as they step towards tori? Is it an attack, or has your style invented a different term for uke putting up his arm in a simulated punch or strike towards tori/nage? Regards! —Mrand Talk • C 22:24, 14 April 2008 (UTC)
Yes, there are many styles, and what I wrote may be wrong for most of them. Unless it is however, it should be part of the article in one way or another.
I honestly can't say at the moment what we call our actions. I think we usually call the move by its exact name, eg. yokomen uchi, morote dori, etc. I wouldn't be surprised if we would call it attack however. I hope your point is not "he attacks, so he must be an attacker". --Yooden ☮
Only in a minor way. I'm mostly trying to understand your style and where you are coming from, because (if you'll excuse my bluntness) using a different word for whomever does the attack does not mean that someone can "not do the technique properly," and certainly does not mean "There is also a higher risk for injury for either one," and absolutely does NOT mean "he is also not practising Aikido." But let's not have a long drawn-out discussion about this - our goal here is to make the article the best it can be while not overly coloring it by our own POV(s).—Mrand Talk • C 16:38, 15 April 2008 (UTC)
Uke doesn't actually mean "attacker" at all, but recipient. The uke is the person who receives the technique. That usually means they're the ones who initiate the exchange with an attack, but not always (especially when reversals or counters are involved), and that's not the definition. Uke is more accurate than attacker (I suppose "recipient" would also suffice, but I think we should prefer uke and simply explain the jargon). — Gwalla | Talk 21:49, 14 April 2008 (UTC)
Hrm. I don't find myself disagreeing with most of what you said, which must mean that I didn't write it clearly. My point was that when dealing with a martial art, it is typically viewed as being able to defend against a possible attacker. Should aikido be described throughout the article as defending against an attacker, or against an uke? Which leads to the same same question as I had for Nate1481: do you typically refer to a possible street attacker as an uke? —Mrand Talk • C 22:24, 14 April 2008 (UTC)
I think that's a false dilemma. If the article describes Aikido's theory and practice as well as Aikido's effect on a brawl in the street, it must use both. --Yooden ☮

I don't have an objection to using uke, by any means. I am somewhat concerned about how many instances were changed though, so what I'm been trying to do here is play devils advocate and spark up a discussion among multiple people to determine a good criteria for when to use one vs. when to attacker and when to use uke (so as to use foreign words sparingly). Also, do we need to find a concise way to somehow explain what uke means early in the article, or is a wiki-link enough? The wiki entry for uke may need to be improved as well, because the way it is written seems to mostly imply it is with reference to a training partner.—Mrand Talk • C 16:38, 15 April 2008 (UTC)


[edit] Take Shigemichi Steven Seagal shihan

Great Masters of Aikido such as Seiseki Abe shihan (10th dan), Hiroshi Isoyama shihan (8th dan), and the late Doshu Kisshomaru Ueshiba recognized the importance of the role Seagal sensei played on the spreading of Aikido throughout the world. He definitely deserves the credit, and reference to this should be made on the main page of the article. The opinions of aikidokas concerning his private or Hollywood life should be set aside. His contribution to aikido is true and real. Many came in contact with Aikido (and why not, O-sensei's and eastern thought) through his movies. Let us not forget his credentials: 7th Dan, being the first western to ever teach in Japan, and owner of a very striking-to-eye technique, much more impressive then most famous masters. Seagal is able to impress even those who do not know aikido, a fact which is not true to most masters. As Seiseki Abe sensei once said "Seagal has the best aikido I've ever seen" (black belt magazine), and these are not the words of a mere aikidoka, Abe sensei was a direct student of O-sensei, being one of the few (if not the only) to have received, straight from the founder, a 10th degree on the art. So who are we to say Seagal´s Aikido is this or that. I stick with Abe shihan's opinion. Justice be made to the man. Please include a reference and a link to him on the "international dissemination" section. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 200.160.22.66 (talk) 23:13, 13 May 2008 (UTC)


[edit] Criticisms section

I just reverted the following text out of the article - most of it certainly does not belong in the criticism section. Does anyone think there is anything essential here that needs to be added to the article (whichever section it belongs in), with references? —Mrand Talk • C 23:03, 3 June 2008 (UTC)

Some believe that criticism of Aikido's effectiveness in unarmed martial combat against striking arts misses a crucial point: that Aikido, based on Samurai martial arts (as opposed to so called japanese "farmer" martial arts such as Karate) is a continuation of the principle of battlefield martial arts as a complement to weapons. Hence Aikido is primarily concerned with enabling a surprised Aikido practicioner to rapidly break any number of grips on his person and move regardless of attempted restraint. As a complement to weaponry this allows the practicioner to draw his weapons or reach for his weapons even if surprised. Removing the layer of "peace and harmony" that was particularly attached to Aikido during the period of american occupation after WW2, Aikido can appear as a form of pre-WWII Close Quarter Battle for the japanese officer. The knife, sword (carried by officers of the period), and short spiked staff (rifle-and-bayonet) work complementing the emphasis on breaking grip and unfettered movement. This view would certainly illustrate to non-practicioners why there is a divergence between martial artists competing in unarmed combat, who view Aikido as close to useless, and Law Enforcement and Special Forces, who hold Aikido in high regard. For the latter Aikido gives three things that most standard martial arts cannot: freedom of movement when grabbed, the ability to draw their weapons even when restrained by several attackers, and the option of neutralising an attacker without damaging them (which can always be followed up if necessary with another striking art, or with weapons to hand).