John Eley: Aikido in Chicago, Through His Eyes, Part II
In 2023, I was in conversations with an intermediary to scheduling an interview with John Eley, one of the longest American students of Koichi Tohei and active member within the Ki Society. Unfortunately, the interview never materialized, however I was offered a previous interview Eley did in 2008. The quality is not the greatest, however,…
Interview with Takahiko Ishikawa Student Koji Shimada: A Candid Look at the Judo Champion
Arriving at Takahiko Ishikawa’s Philadelphia dojo in July of 1968, Koji Shimada encountered a man whose courtesy and humility stood in stark contrast to his legendary status in Japanese judo. What began as formal instruction soon unfolded into a deeper education. In this conversation, Shimada offers a rare and honest perspective on Ishikawa’s years in…
A Theoretical Model of Self-Defense: Bridging Theory and Practice in Response to Real-World Threats By Michael F. Martin
Introduction Self-defense is often taught as a physical skill – a collection of techniques designed to repel or neutralize a physical threat. While this practical aspect is critical, it only forms part of the broader picture. Self-defense is a complex interplay of psychology, awareness, decision-making, and preparedness. The Self-Defense Theoretical Model seeks to address these…
Interview with Longtime UK Kenshi and Historian Paul Budden: Kendo’s Varied History and its International Future, Part II
Growing up close to Hadrian’s Wall – erected during Rome’s reign of the British Isles – Paul Budden found his interest in history. His interest of Japanese sword – born out of his love of history – led him into a kendo dojo and has not looked back since. Throughout his time in kendo, he…
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Martial Arts of Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow 