WHEN an opponent attacked 9th Dan black belt Aikido master Takeno Takafumi Shihan, he crippled the offence just by throwing his opponent to the floor.
“It is very easy” said Takeno, and every one in the room burst into laughter for what seemed easy for Takeno, struck the audience as a complex move of self defence that will take years to train and master.
Visitors were amazed by the demonstration by Takeno who is the All Japan Yoshinkan Aikido Federation Kaicho Chairman and Aikido Yamanashi Yoshinkan headmaster as well as other Aikido instructors from several countries during the inaugural Aikido Tamanashi Yoshinkan International Demonstration held at Cititel Mid Valley, Kuala Lumpur.
“Aikido is a gentle style martial art that utilises the force of the opponent with joint locks and throwing techniques based on body movement.
“It is not aggressive nor is it used to harm. It is a self-defence that protects the practitioner,” Takeno said.
Akido is a Japanese martial art founded by Ueshiba Morihei and modern day aikido can trace its origins back to the feudal society.
Through Aikido, one develops good qualities in body and mind and it is suitable for both men and women.
It is a compulsory martial art for Japan’s elite riot police squad and women’s police force.
Takeno also said the most important part of the non-competitive martial art is the Waza or Aikido techniques.
“One needs to master the basic Waza in order to perform the right techniques,” he said.
The event saw local as well as international Aikido instructors from England, France, Germany, Russian and Japan performing a series of skilful demonstration such as the Suwariwaza and Kihon waza (kneeling techniques), Tanto Sohou and Tanto Dori (wooden dagger routine and disarmament), Jo Soutai Sohou (short staff routine) as well as the explanatory demonstration by Takeno.
Yoshinkan Aikido Malaysia (YAM) chief instructor 6th Dan Sonny Loke said the event aimed to promote Yoshinkan Aikido in Malaysian and around the world.
“The event is held in conjunction with our 20th anniversary in Malaysia.
“Aikido scene in Malaysia are building up and we want to expose the public to the martial arts.
“We are also thankful to have Takeno here with us during our demonstration,” he said.
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