Thread: Bokken symmetry
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Old 10-19-2007, 08:19 PM   #1
John Ruhl
Dojo: Cleveland Aikikai
Location: Cleveland, OH
Join Date: Apr 2007
Posts: 39
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Bokken symmetry

I have a question about the nature of Aikido bokken practice, which I'd love to hear thoughts on.

I've read many times that Aikido empty-hand techniques are to some extent derived from weapons work, and that weapons work helps our empty-hand technique. I've certainly come to believe this in my own practice. However, our empty-hand techniques are always done "both sides" (left and right), while the bokken kata I've seen or done (which is not a lot, and all ASU) is done "right handed", ie with the "right hand on top" grip on the bokken.

Does anyone practice bokken kata "both sides", and if so have you found it helpful, especially in its benefits for your empty-hand technique? If you don't practice "both sides", is there a reason that you think it wouldn't be helpful or is unnecessary?

thanks,
John
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