Thursday 7 March 2013

Bucks Cross Aikido - Jogi (kata) 1

We are continuing our study of the 1st Ki Aikido Jo Kata or 'jogi' at the Bucks Cross class in North Devon tonight. Over the past year I have been fortunate to have been able to study with Sensei Richard Small in Bideford who teaches the Iwama style of aiki-jo. Previously I have never studied that tradition and it has been a considerable challenge to me.

I have come to realise that the Iwama (Saito Sensei) tradition emphasises quite different qualities in its jo work than the Ki (Tohei Sensei) tradition. In my view, both styles are equally worthy of study. Iwama jo work builds power, stability and precision. Ki jo work emphasises lightness, fluidity and speed. Both traditions emphasise softness and centredness. It is rather remarkable that a simple wooden stick has so much to teach!

Anyway, for reference, this is the Ki-style jo kata which we are currently studying in the Bucks Cross class.

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