Hello, I am Sugawara, your instructor.

In this issue, I would like to share with you how to improve your aikido.

It is said that there are more than 200 techniques in Yoshinkan Aikido. Many of them have complex procedures, and until you are familiar with them, it is difficult just to memorize them in your head first.

So, how should one strive to learn a technique quickly and accurately?

Four ways to improve your aikidostep

To improve your aikido, you should not just practice harder, but take the following four steps.

Watching and learning techniques = training by watching = drawing your own movements in your mind = training on your own = practicing by yourself = practicing with a partner = practicing at the dojo

Generally, most people only work hard at 4, "training in the dojo," but it is a little more difficult because it requires a high level of memory in the head and body.

Improve the accuracy of your own reproduction of what you see.

For just five minutes a day, replay the techniques you have learned in your mind and try to see if you can reproduce them as you wish. Just by doing this preparation, you will improve your Aikido by far faster.

Know your own interpersonal tendencies by partnering with others

However, when moving alone and in the presence of a partner, you will not be able to move as you expect (even if you are not resisted). You will notice that you become tense and shaky. This is your own interpersonal tendency that you can learn from aikido practice. This is why Aikido is said to be close to yoga and meditation.