Novice, Beginner's Question

[Please visit our sponsor:]

[thecrowrains]

Greetings Aikidoka,
I'll even admit, I'm not even a beginner but I've always admired and/or respected Aikido. I've yet to step foot in a single class; but I've addressed my curiosity by at least buying a book at the local Barnes & Noble's booksellers.

Anyone care to expend some thought in a reply about how Aikido differs from Taekwondo, Northern Shaolin Kung-Fu, and Jeet Kune Do?

*I mentioned those above three due in part to that has been the bulk of martial training.

peace, namaste',
Eric

[gdandscompserv]

In many ways similar and in many ways different.
I happen to believe that the sensei is more important than the art.

[thecrowrains]

Mr. Wood,
thanks for the succinct reply. "In many ways similar" < Would it be safe to say that the similarities include the same striking techniques of hands and feet? I would assume that the dissimilar techniques include the locks, traps, etc.?

There's only ONE Aikido school in the main Anchorage bowl area = approx. 100 miles roundtrip. Argh.

peace,
Eric

[kironin]

Best answered by trying out a class and talking to the local teacher.

There may be some small clubs closer that you may not be aware of that the teacher of that school could point you to.

[maxwelljones]

Aikido is a rather unique martial art. It may fall somewhere between judo and taijiquan, in my maybe-wrong opinion, in focus.

Aikidoka don't focus much on hitting people, except in the way tori will occasionally strike, or at least feint, to divert uke's attention before applying the technique, and in the way uke attacks tori to initiate the technique.

On the other hand, arts like taekwondo and Jeetkunedo are "hard" arts, where the emphasis is almost solely on effective ways to strike, with devastating effect, in rapid succession. Karate involves some takedown techniques, but places comparatively little emphasis on them beside the striking techniques more commonly associated with it.

But, as said, the best thing you can do is attend a dojo and see for yourself if aikido, or whatever style you choose, provides the tools you can use to achieve what you want, in terms of instilling self-discipline and/or learning to use physical force in defense. No one art is superior to all others, but you'll have to choose one that best fits the goals you are hoping to achieve.

[mwible]

aikido is almost a complete opposite of the arts u just listed(in my opinion and understanding). the only strikes u will use in aikido are just meant to stun and/or loosen up your attacker. aikido is used only as self defense. it is primarily based on joint locks mainly involving the wrist and arm. and throws. using your opponents body weight against them and getting them off balance to have complete control over them from start to finish.

[crbateman]

Take some classes. Go in expecting nothing. Soak up and experience firsthand. Then begin to ask questions. You'll be surprised just how fast you will be able to arrive at many of the answers yourself.

[GaiaM]

I have visited Aikido North in Anchorage and they are great folks. Best of luck!

Gaia