Complete Aikido (Complete Martial Arts) [Paperback]

Roy Suenaka (Author), Christopher Watson (Author)

Book Description

Series: Complete Martial Arts | Publication Date: March 1998

Aikido is excellent exercise, a well developed self-defense system which does not rely on physical strength or size, and because of its fundamental philosophy of non-violence, it nourishes spiritual growth. Complete Aikido is the authoritative text on this enlightening martial art and self-defense system. With 400 photographs, Roy Yukio Suenaka Sensei describes clearly the execution of aikido techniques, and illuminates the history and philosophy of this martial art. Both a fascinating martial biography and a comprehensive instructional manual, Complete Aikido is a must for all practitioners seeking the way of harmony.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Roy Suenaka has devoted his life to martial arts study, learning at the feet of some of the world's most celebrated masters. His extensive experience makes him uniquely qualified to comment on what aikido is and is not, and to dispel the many misconceptions that plague its history, philosophy, and martial technique.

Co-author Christopher Watson has been studying aikido for eight years under the tutelage of Suenaka Sensei.

Product Details

• Paperback: 416 pages
• Publisher: Tuttle Publishing; 1st edition (March 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0804831408
• ISBN-13: 978-0804831406
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6.1 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (21 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #493,102 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

32 of 35 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Coverage of much of little known Aikido History + techniques, February 20, 2000

By 

Brian Cates - See all my reviews

This review is from: Complete Aikido (Complete Martial Arts) (Paperback)

Having read over 18 books on the subject of aikido, and training in Tenshin Bugei Aikido for the past year, I was pretty up to date on the various aikido techniques and basic history. However, one thing that always bothered me was seeing how split the Aikido world has become, and I often could not account for how a martial art that was supposed to spread peace and harmony could lead to aikido organizations and senseis who want nothing to do with each and who talk badly of one another. After reading Suenaka Sensei's book, I have a much better grasp of Aikido's history after the Founder's death. The best thing about the first half of the book, which is biographical info about Suenaka Sensei, is that it explains how the great schisms came about in the Aikido world following O-Sensei's death. It makes for eye-opening reading, and I think the subject is not well understood by most modern aikidoka, from comments I have heard. I recently discovered through an on-line chat with a member of one of Koichi Tohei Sensei's affiliated dojos that he still does not allow a picture of the founder of Aikido to be displayed in any school that he has authority over; they are only allowed to display his picture. This troubles me greatly, but after reading Suenaka Sensei's book and coming to understand the depth of the controversy, it makes more sense than it did when I first heard about this. It seemed incredible to me that a man who learned Aikido at O-Sensei's feet today will not allow a picture of the founder to be displayed in his dojos. One has to wonder who's picture will replace his when he dies. At any rate, the book casts light on much of Aikidos recent history;most aikido books only cover aikido up until O-Sensei's death. For this reason, it is a valuable learning tool. The techniques taught in the book are very effective, demontrating that Suenaka Sensei believes that Aikido is both a spiritual endeavor and a practical combat art, instead of just one or the other, as many tend to want to believe these days. Very thought provoking book and I encourage you to read it.

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Suenka's Aikido Works!, May 12, 2003

By A Customer

This review is from: Complete Aikido (Complete Martial Arts) (Paperback)

This is an excellent book on the growth of a martial artist (Suenaka) and the evolution of an art (Aikido). Suenaka moves through the years rather quickly, yet one feels connected at each stage of his life. I have read a couple of Tohei's books and while I agree that ki practice is essential to Aikido, Suenaka does not forsake technique for ki development. He also makes a strong point for using atemi (vital strikes) when applying a complete Aikido waza (technique). Contrary to what some Aikido stylist may believe, and what Suenaka understands, atemi is very useful as a distraction or to "soften" up your attacker. Suenaka is a true master who highlights the ways politics and egos can negatively impact the martial arts. The technique photos are pretty good but not extensive. Basic movements and drills were addressed well. It was an enjoyable read.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars What a great book for anyone that is interested in AIKIDO, January 27, 2004

By 

John Sanora (VC Canada) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Complete Aikido (Complete Martial Arts) (Paperback)

Having been involved in Aikido, Judo and Karate for more than 20 years. I am glad that Suenaka Sensei gave his insight into what really happened between Doshu and Tohei Sensei. After practicing with the Federation for sometime I always wondered what happened that caused the split between the Doshu and Tohei. Suenaka Sensei's account has brought all the missing pieces together for me and has answered all the questions I had about one of the most monumental events in Aikido post O'Sensei's passing.

I also found Suenaka Senseis credential very impressive and wish that he had a school in Canada as I would love to have the opportunity to train with someone that has studied with all of the masters he has.

It seem that Suenaka Sensei's Technical part of the book is much more real life oriented than the Aikido that I am used to practicing and teaching. I was amazed to see him actually using a kick in one of his techniques. I have never seen anyone at Hombu do that and I will start to combine my use of kicks as atemi in my own techniques as it really makes sense. Also the use of punches seems to be used in every technique that Suenaka Sensei does which has really made me think about having to combine atemi with everything I do if I want my Aikido to work in the street.