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Kevin Leavitt · 01-12-2007, 03:25 AM

No, I have worked with Saotome Sensei a number of times in which he incorporated kicks into his classes. It was never to learn how to be a better kicker or to demonstrate the efficiency or lethality of kicks, only to convey the principles he was trying to teach in the class.

Justin asked a question earlier about where you draw the line concerning what you can include in aikido. BJJ, Kicks, knifes, etc. Yes you can include any and all techniques that are humanly possible. Where you draw the line is principles. The principles of aikido are based based on the philosophical beliefs first established by the founder, and generally agreed upon today by the majority of people who identify with the word or art of aikido.

Typically it centers around the concepts of peace and harmony, or the resolution of conflict, first through private victory by mastering and conquering yourself, and then by public victory, when we can take the private victories and use them to achieve balance, peace, and harmony in the world.

It strives for interdependence.

Therefore, the techniques used are much unimportant, and anything could be used to demonstrate or practice these points and to help us realize the lessons.

01-12-2007, 03:25 AM	#58
Kevin Leavitt Dojo: Team Combat USA Location: Olympia, Washington Join Date: Jul 2002 Posts: 4,376 Offline	Re: Within the Parameters of Aikido? No, I have worked with Saotome Sensei a number of times in which he incorporated kicks into his classes. It was never to learn how to be a better kicker or to demonstrate the efficiency or lethality of kicks, only to convey the principles he was trying to teach in the class. Justin asked a question earlier about where you draw the line concerning what you can include in aikido. BJJ, Kicks, knifes, etc. Yes you can include any and all techniques that are humanly possible. Where you draw the line is principles. The principles of aikido are based based on the philosophical beliefs first established by the founder, and generally agreed upon today by the majority of people who identify with the word or art of aikido. Typically it centers around the concepts of peace and harmony, or the resolution of conflict, first through private victory by mastering and conquering yourself, and then by public victory, when we can take the private victories and use them to achieve balance, peace, and harmony in the world. It strives for interdependence. Therefore, the techniques used are much unimportant, and anything could be used to demonstrate or practice these points and to help us realize the lessons.