Thread: In a quandary
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Old 05-17-2011, 06:14 PM   #19
Mary Eastland
 
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Dojo: Berkshire Hills Aikido
Join Date: Aug 2002
Posts: 1,476
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Re: In a quandary

Quote:
Carsten Möllering wrote: View Post
So how is aikido a martial art then?
What are the aims of your practice if not becoming confindent of being able to protect yourself?
How do you understand waza if not trying to make them "work"?

I have to admit I don't find the aikido I was taught and I try to teach in these statements. We do a very "soft" aikido. But one aspect clearly is it's use for self-defense.
I don't think aikido waza is "non-aggressive". (And never heard something like that on a tatami.) I think it is the person who is or is not.
I am not sure how you can assume that I don't train for self- defense in aikido by what I wrote. Being aware of my circumstances at all times helps keeps me safe.
Not sure what is wrong with that. (in honor of Tony)
Mary
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