A Latvian multimedia clip-thing

Hello everyone...

I don't know if this is the right section for the information but most of the ppl read the "general" the most so...

http://
aikido.interaction.lv/video/AIKIDO110.wmv

This is a demo video clip from the senseis who are considered the best in baltics by many. The file is approximately 12,5 MB and needs to be renamed to a .mpg type of file.

Why I'm giving a link of this?

Because in my humble opinion this is the best Aikido overview video I have found in the net. When one of my friends asks me what is Aikido like? Then I no longer try to explain it but give this link and then explain afterwards (NO this falling does NOT hurt, YES they HAVE to jump in this way or their hands would be broken and it wouldn't look that beautiful, YES it works)

I think it't an exellent demonstration by Latvians (2 sandan brothers as I know it) and is an interesting clip to those who are yet beginners - to see what Aikido is about and as well to teachers across the world to see how it is done in such a small place as Latvia.

Opinions welcome...

Jorgen
Estonian Aikikai
Riveta Sportsclub

P.S. Their homepage address is
aikido.yo.lv but it's throughoutly in Latvian

Except for being on the mat, that is about the only way to get a sense of how Aikido practice works.

I usually tell people I spend my time falling down and getting up sober while trying to get the hell out of someones way ....

When that doesn't work ... we go to the film clip.

Hey, there are a few downloadable clips on the Aikido FAQ, is that where you got them? If not, check them out too.

This is a good source for video clips all over the internet. I came across this website, and was shocked to see that a link to my dojo's website is on there too.

http://yoav.8m.net/AikidoVideoLinks.htm

Nice points Bruce. And very true. Anyway some ppl are just interested not wanting to come to the mat...

What I wanted to point out that is is imho the best and most beautiful REVIEW clip I've found on the net.
Of course there are many videos in the net (good ones in AikidoFAQ) BUT they tend to be
a) very small/short/low quality clips
b) seminar clips
c) descriptions of techniques

Which all can be VERY beneficial for someone who already does Aikido BUT does not give quite a decent picture to someone who does not. (Unless he is willing to download 10 clips and/or to put his nose against the screen to see anything)

What about the style in those clips? Anything odd comparing to what you do in your dojos?

Jorgen
Estonian Aikikai
Rivet Sportsclub

P.S. Sarah - the link you pointed out sure has some nice thumbnails but i wasn't able to download any clips

Originally posted by Jorx Sarah - the link you pointed out sure has some nice thumbnails but i wasn't able to download any clips

I just went to check this out, and the server is down for maintenance, so there might have been a problem. I have a problem with your link too. Whenever I try to get it to play, my connection fails and I have to sign on again. Believe me no one's computer screws up more than mine.

Hey, that's a really good clip Jorx!!

The only "odd" thing I might point out would be how he was holding on to Uke a lot between throws and next attacks, but "odd" may be harsh. It's just different. Other than that, it was very entertaining and actually further inspires me to become even more dedicated than I am already. I also agree that there is a serious lack of quality aikido clips out there on the net, regardless of their purpose.

Sarah, I'm having the same problems with that link you posted. Hopefully they'll fix the problem soon.

The only "odd" thing I might point out would be how he was holding on to Uke a lot between throws and next attacks,

Sceptoor - that's interesting
Btw - most of the Estonian senseis are doing this. It's supposed to be maintaining control over the uke and waiting "passively" for him to make a move... either to stand up pull the arm or whatever. So we are taught this way that sometimes it's good to maintain touch with uke... I do it sometimes... it's so fun to say: "Now try to get up!" (wham)

Jorgen
Estonian Aikikai
Riveta Sportsclub