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**TONGPO** · 09-22-2004, 07:34 AM

perhaps, I may liken it to a ponytail for a haircut, it just takes too long to grow

I dunno why people don't comnsider it good for the street, I think thats rubbish. It was developed for 'real world application' maybe not so good for the ring. And it does take too much dedication for most, lllooooooonnngg time to get proficient I believe

**Thai Bri** · 09-22-2004, 12:06 PM

Because it takes complicated moves and a compliant partner - neither of which are particularly common in the street.

**Studiobuddy** · 09-22-2004, 05:07 PM

I think its badass, I charged my master and he flipped me over by using his hands

**Studiobuddy** · 09-22-2004, 05:07 PM

it hurt too and used a joint lock to restrain me

**Aikiguy** · 09-22-2004, 05:19 PM

Probably because of the learning curve involved. Looking at something like boxing, TKD, karate, (yes mainly striking arts for this example) you first learn some basic punches, kicks, blocks, etc. You drill them 'till the cows come home. Then you learn more complex moves / combinations on top of them later on, when you've grasped the basics. In aikido, it seems that you have to have a good understanding of a lot more in the beginning to execute even some of the basic techniques because of the timing / distance / proper balance, etc. This isn't to say that in the end, it's not as effective ... but the process of understanding is, in my opinion, a different learning curve than many other arts.

I'm also not going to say at all that aikido isn't useful for self defense ... heck, for quick takedowns and blending with attacks, I think aikido's great. BUT ... I suppose people are a bit turned off by the idea that, at least in some dojos, it's more focused on the theory of combat instead of direct applications. Though I guess if you train in theory long enough, you understand the nature of attack a lot more, so in the end you get to the same place as other arts. You just take a different path to get there.

I think randori should be a little more emphasized to add the element of the unknown to the training program. Even for beginners ... just a one on one to get them used to the idea. Fully resisting, any attack, knife / no knife (nage doesn't know this), etc. If you can make it work in those situations, then you're much better off, and you have a better idea of what works, what doesn't, and especially what you are capable of remembering when the adrenaline is pumping!

**EmptyneSs** · 09-22-2004, 10:58 PM

i took aikido for a semester at my college. the learning curve for aikido is very high, but taking aikido isnt really to get good at fighting real fast. its more like a lifelong dedication to an art and the philosophy that comes with it. our sensie had been doing aikido for 25 years, and when he moved, it was like poetry in motion. his skill was absolutely devastating, and i pity anyone trying to attack him on the street or in a bar or whatever. alot of the concepts that were explained to us by our sensei were really awesome, and i did come out of that class with a few skills that didnt have before, and an understanding of some useful concepts. however, aikido just wasnt what i was looking to get into. i wanted something that would provide me with a more aggressive workout, full contact sparring, and skills that i would be able to pick up and use relatively quick, but thats just me.

people like to talk down about aikido sometimes, but honestly, i wouldnt wanna mess with anyone who is proficient in aikido regardless of what i train in.

**VTGreg** · 09-23-2004, 01:33 AM

your feelings

Well Steve, could you tell us why you think it is an effective street art?

**Thai Bri** · 09-23-2004, 07:20 AM

Originally posted by Studiobuddy

I think its badass, I charged my master and he flipped me over by using his hands

He flipped you over using his hands? I've never heard it called that before.... Now we know he doies Splashing Hands Kung Fu CONVINCED!

**SteveSeagal** · 09-23-2004, 10:51 AM