Crisis of Faith

Mary Malmros wrote: Having a boring Boxing Day, are we?

No.

dps

David Skaggs wrote: I wonder if Ronda stills feels that way now.. dps

She's looking for a rematch with Holm, not switching back to judo.

Katherine

I confess I haven't read the whole thread. Just replying to the OP, I would say there is only one way to find out how effective you really are: Ask some ukes not to cooperate. Also, have them attack in a more realistic way - from short distance, without exaggerated movements etc.

Whatever the outcome, take it for granted that you will look awkward compared to the nice choreographies that you are used to. But you will start seeing what is and what is not truly effective - and what it takes to make it so. Thus giving you the chance to develop confidence. And there can be positive surprises, too.

Aikido is a way that never ends. Good luck on it!

As it happens, I just commented on Aikido and self-defence here:

http://www.aikiweb.com/forums/showth...d=1#post346568

Feel free to reply. I may well elaborate on my post, if the interest warrants it.

In my dojo we train with resistance once the student reaches an appropriate level, just after having learned the shape of the form. This allows them to find where kuzushi is obtained and helps them to refine their application of their art.

In response to OP, I feel this is where randori is important. Static technique requires some level of compliance from uke because they know what you are going to do. Static training has its place though, it teaches you the principles. You have to start somewhere.
I don't believe in the whole 20 yr technique statement. Some people have only done 1 year 20 times. Like the previous posters comment about touching the elephant. Your perception fits what you experience. There are some parts of the elephant I'd prefer not to touch though..