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Old 03-28-2007, 09:57 PM   #8
Russell Pearse
Dojo: Takemusu Aiki Association
Location: Sydney
Join Date: Apr 2006
Posts: 13
Australia
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Re: Poll: How important is working with strong-gripped, "static grabs" in your aikido

Hi:

I believe that strong hand grips from a static position is absolutely critical to correct training. It is the basis of Saito Sensei's training methodology that all techniques start from a static position with a strong grip before proceeding to more flowing technique.

It is like starting from a worst case scenario, when someone has caught you in a strong grip and you have no alternative but to find the way through. It teaches you to find the line of least resistance and the correct body structure for the development of power. If you can't do it from the worst case scenario, then you won't be able to do the technique correctly in a more flowing way.

If you train only light and flowing it is possible to cheat yourself and think you are doing it correctly. It is only when a 120 kg gorilla has got the other end of your arm that you discover whether you can do the technique or not.

Cheers,

Russell
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