Thread: Randori
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Old 07-29-2004, 05:37 PM   #24
senseimike
 
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Dojo: Rising Star Aikido
Location: South Bend, Nebraska
Join Date: May 2004
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Re: Randori

I feel it's never too soon to start randori. Beginners should have more experienced and compassionate ukes to build their confidence and skill level. I even introduce randori in the kids classes. As far as actual strategy, I feel that timing is very important. Another point to think about is control of the uke. There are many instances where uke can be used as a shield against attack or even an obstacle to slow attackers down. I do tend to throw ukes in each other's way, helps to set the pace for the randori. Remember, you're in control of the situation, not the attackers. While I don't feel that randori should be a street fight or full contact, I do feel it's a training exercise to ready you for a real life situation. If one can maintain composure when being attacked by 3, 4, or 5 uke then the goal of my randori has been reached.

Mike Taylor
Godan
Chief Instructor, Rising Star Aikido
South Bend, Nebraska, USA
www.risingstaraikido.com
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