East Bay Aikido - Oakland, California

Home

Overview

Schedule

Fees

Instructors

Questions

Location

Events

Photos

Articles

The 108

Links

Tai Chi

Members

ARTICLES

Stealing the Technique

Nicky Roosevelt

     I've heard that there is much less explanation of Aikido technique in a Japanese dojo than here in the States. The instructor will demonstrate and you are supposed to figure out how to do the technique from just watching, in effect "stealing the technique" from him or her. If you are in a class where you are used to asking questions and getting verbal explanations of techniques, you may not be using your observational skills to full advantage. You can still "steal" the techniques from the instructor by studying closely what he or she is doing. For that matter, you can steal the technique from your training partner, as well.

     Paying attention to specifics when the instructor is demonstrating, by maybe isolating your attention on the hands or feet, can reveal a great deal. I like to see when to start moving as nage in relation to uke, as well as what to move and how. Being thrown by your sensei is especially fun because the demonstration happens so much closer. He or she may emphasize aspects that are especially helpful to you. Do you actually get to grab or are you led so you are off balance? How do they take your balance? You get to see the throw up close when your instructor throws your training partner. He or she may also give insights to them that illuminate your understanding of Aikido and its techniques, whether you are at the same level as your training partner or not.

     I like to notice what my training partner is doing when I get thrown particularly well. I guess the same is true when the technique isn't done as effectively. I can key on what aspect did or didn't work and see if the same is true when I'm nage. When I am uke, how do I feel during the technique and pin or throw? Is it done with love and compassion? Joy? Am I surprised when I end up on the mat? Do I feel "attacked" during the technique? Does it hurt when I am pinned, or is it comforting? If I were an attacker, would that make me even more likely to continue to attack (because it pissed me off) or would it be a transforming experience toward peace? All these experiences are things I might want to incorporate into my Aikido.

     In any case, there is much to observe that will help you with specifics or generalities. Nothing need be said for a great exchange to happen. The experience is so wonderful when we recognize the great joy of training and learning with each other. I can guarantee that it will enrich your aikido experience and speed your understanding when you "steal the technique".