In 1974, Bob Toabe stepped onto the mats of Shodokan to learn aikido under Fred Newcomb. Mitsunari Kanai, Newcomb’s instructor and New England Aikikai founder, made the trip on the last Friday of each month to teach. When Toabe enrolled into Boston University, he was able to train at both Shodokan and New England Aikikai, learning directly from Kanai. During his time in aikido, Toabe had the opportunity to see relationships blossom through aikido, especially between Kanai, Kazuo Chiba, and Yoshimitsu Yamada. Today, Toabe took some time to talk about those relationships and his experiences training under Kanai. All images provided by Bob Toabe. This is the second part of a two part interview. Read the first part here.
MAYTT: Kanai was also very connected with Yoshimitsu Yamada, with Kanai being one of the founding members of the United States Aikido Federation. How would you describe the relationship between Kanai and Yamada?
BT: It seems that Yamada Sensei and Kanai Sensei shared a remarkably close relationship, dating back to their early years. Kanai Sensei started aikido at the age of eighteen or nineteen, and the bond with Yamada Sensei, formed during their years as uchi deshi at Hombu Dojo, remained strong. Their connection was evident despite the differences in their personalities and teaching styles.
Yamada Sensei was known for his flamboyant and colorful demeanor, fostering warm personal connections with his students. In contrast, Kanai Sensei, while maintaining a good rapport with his students, appeared more reserved. The distinct styles in their training methods highlighted their individual approaches, yet their friendship and mutual respect were palpable.
Their closeness was demonstrated by their practice of observing each other’s classes when they were in the same place. Although there’s no recollection of both teaching simultaneously, their supportive relationship was apparent. Students, whenever in New York, were encouraged to practice with both Yamada Sensei and Kanai Sensei. The vibrant atmosphere of the New York Aikikai, characterized by its colorful dojo, reflected the positive influence of these two esteemed instructors.
Despite the differences in their aikido styles – with Yamada Sensei favoring a more circular and broader approach, and Kanai Sensei’s style influenced by his training in iaido and weapons – their camaraderie was unwavering. The relationship between the two senseis was characterized by congeniality and mutual support, creating a positive and welcoming environment for their students. Personal anecdotes, such as Yamada Sensei taking the time to introduce a visitor to a local sushi restaurant during a business trip, underscored the warmth and generosity that defined their enduring connection.
MAYTT: Recently, with the passing of Yamada, the general aikido community demonstrated their support to the New York Aikikai in various ways. Did the New England Aikikai have something similar when Kanai passed?
BT: Following Kanai Sensei’s passing, the dynamics within the aikido community underwent a natural transformation, as often happens when a leader passes away. With at least ten satellite dojos established by Kanai Sensei, the initial period was marked by a sense of struggle and uncertainty. Initially, there was an expectation that Yasu Ito, David Farrel, or David Halprin would step into the role of the next instructor. However, to the surprise of many, this transition did not materialize.
The absence of a clear successor led to a divergence among the students, resulting in the formation of different groups. It is not uncommon for dojos to face challenges in maintaining cohesion after the founder and instructor’s passing. The natural course of events tends to see people gravitate toward different directions, drawn to various instructors for diverse reasons.
Despite this natural evolution, there is a positive aspect to witness. Kanai Sensei’s aikido style remains a central and unifying force among his students, even as they establish their own dojos. The resilience and continuity of Kanai Sensei’s teachings, serving as a guiding principle for these dojos, reflect the enduring impact of his legacy.
In the Boston area, where various dojos have emerged, the desire to see people come together despite their differences is evident. I appreciated the collaborative spirit showcased in seminars where different instructors from various groups converged, which fostered a sense of unity and shared learning. I enjoyed these gatherings and would like to see more because it enriches the potential that arises when practitioners, despite their diverse paths, unite for the collective growth of the aikido community.
MAYTT: Absolutely. Putting the differences aside and actually focusing on the similarities will create a better bond between everybody.
BT: I’ve always found great satisfaction in witnessing individuals carve out their unique paths in aikido, emphasizing their personal development and style. The mimicry of instructors – merely replicating their techniques – has occasionally left me disenchanted. My aikido journey has been profoundly shaped by various instructors, and it surprises me to reflect on how my style has evolved over the years. What was once characterized by a vigorous, relentless approach has now transformed into a softer, more gentle practice. At seventy years old this year [2023], the natural shift towards a gentler aikido is inevitable, and I accept and appreciate the change.
I hold deep admiration for those who find comfort in their individualized training methods, allowing their practice to develop organically. It’s a stark contrast to the traditional Japanese approach, which often emphasizes strict emulation of the instructor’s style. While cultural influences in Japan often encourage such mimicry, I recognize the global aikido community is diverse, fostering individualized approaches and unique expressions of the art.
In my own teaching, I strive not to be overly prescriptive, providing space for practitioners to discover their own paths within the art. I believe in granting the freedom to explore and develop one’s unique style within the dojo.
Reflecting on Kanai Sensei’s passing and the subsequent shifts in the aikido landscape, I acknowledge that the popularity of aikido has fluctuated, with some dojos experiencing a decline in membership. At Shodokan, where I train, we take a distinctive approach. Operating in a building that houses five different martial arts, including three dojos, each with its unique identity, we own the building.
Exploring the lower level of Shodokan reveals a multifaceted space predominantly designed for kendo and karate, featuring a wooden floor. Additionally, a Russian gentleman conducts Budo Fitness, showcasing remarkable physical conditioning that I admire, even if I may not replicate it. The area also encompasses a gym equipped with exercise facilities and weights. A smaller mat at the dojo is available, especially for individuals who may face challenges climbing stairs.
Shodokan operates on a membership basis where individuals join and pay monthly dues, granting access to various classes. While kendo, aikido, judo, and other martial arts are the primary focuses, members have the flexibility to participate in multiple disciplines. The dojo boasts over a hundred monthly members, although aikido, once the central focus, has become a smaller but still valued part of the community.
Embracing the smaller size of the aikido group doesn’t diminish its significance for me. I appreciate the challenging dynamics that emerge when training with fewer people. The sense of connection and focused practice with even one dedicated training partner is fulfilling, embodying the essence of martial arts training.
The passing of Bernie, the founder of Shodokan, marked a somber moment, coinciding with the onset of the Covid pandemic. This unfortunate event occurred around ninety-two or ninety-three years old, as he battled the virus, enduring for five or six days before his passing. Despite this loss, the dojo continued to function smoothly, guided by a board of directors comprising members from diverse martial arts groups within the dojo. I’ve always maintained a distance from administrative matters, content with the volunteer-driven ethos that permeates the dojo. The absence of financial compensation for instructors underscores the genuine passion and commitment to martial arts.
The dojo’s financial health has improved over time, and there are hopeful signs of paying off the mortgage soon. Achieving financial stability, remaining in the black, has been a collective effort, and it’s a source of pride for the community. As an older and retired individual, my appreciation for Shodokan has only deepened. The dojo has consistently been the highlight of my day, and the joy it brings has become even more pronounced in my retirement years.
Reflecting on the future, I acknowledge that there may come a day when ascending the steep steps to the main dojo becomes a physical challenge. Shodokan’s various locations have always featured steps, and these have been symbolic of the journey within the dojo. The continuity and stability of Shodokan, even after the passing of the head instructor, underscores the resilience of the community. Although a small splinter group emerged at one point, the core essence of Shodokan remained largely unchanged. Being a part of this enduring legacy is mutually beneficial – for me and for the dojo.
MAYTT: Could you describe the relationship Kanai had with Chiba?
BT: The foundation of Chiba Sensei’s and Kanai Sensei’s friendship was laid during their early days in grade school. Sitting one behind the other, this chance encounter blossomed into a profound and enduring friendship that spanned their entire lives. Despite their differences, they held a significant influence on each other, shaping the trajectories of their martial arts journeys.
Chiba Sensei, often referred to as our “uncle,” made a yearly pilgrimage to impart his intense training style. His visits were marked by the rigors of suwari waza, leaving practitioners with raw knees after the initial days of summer camp. The intensity of his training left a lasting impression, creating a unique bond between Chiba Sensei and those who practiced under his guidance.
The warmth and closeness between Chiba Sensei and Kanai Sensei were palpable, especially during joint training sessions or events like summer camp. Their camaraderie extended beyond the mat, influencing each other personally and professionally. For me, the impact of Chiba Sensei’s style was profound, even sparking daydreams of training with him for an extended period, a dream that, unfortunately, never materialized.
The reciprocal influence they had on each other’s students was evident, creating a rich tapestry of martial arts experiences that transcended individual dojos and styles. The enduring friendship between these two remarkable individuals left an indelible mark on the aikido community, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among their students.
MAYTT: For the newer and younger aikidoka, what would you tell them about Kanai’s contributions to the aikido community? Why do you feel these contributions are important for future aikidoka to remember?
BT: Kanai Sensei made significant contributions to the greater aikido community, leaving a lasting impact that resonated in various aspects:
1. Emphasis on Weapons Training:
Kanai Sensei’s focus on weapons training, influenced by his studies under Muso Shinden-ryu iaido’s Mitsuzuka Takeshi Sensei, set him apart in the aikido community. This emphasis on iaido and weapons training became a distinctive feature of his teachings, enriching the overall martial experience for his students.
2. Connection with the Ueshiba Family and Aikikai:
His deep connection with the Ueshiba family and Aikikai, the central organization for aikido, underscored his commitment to the core principles and traditions of aikido. This connection helped preserve the authenticity of his teachings and fostered a sense of continuity within the broader aikido community.
3. Joy of Training and Martial Focus:
Kanai Sensei’s infectious joy of training created a vibrant atmosphere in the dojo. His genuine passion for aikido and martial arts as a whole inspired those around him. The concentration on the training process and the martial focus he instilled have endured, shaping the character of the dojos that trace their lineage to him.
In summary, Kanai Sensei’s contributions lie in his commitment to preserving aikido’s traditional roots, particularly through weapons training, and in cultivating a joyful yet disciplined training environment. His impact is reflected in the continued martial focus and connection to Aikikai principles within the dojos influenced by his teachings.
MAYTT: I see. With the passing and retirement of the last of O-Sensei’s direct students here in the United States, who should American aikidoka look up to, if anyone at all?
BT: That’s a good question. I always felt that Paul Sulvain was the future of aikido in the United States. He died very tragically with his young daughter in a car fire. He was an early student of Kanai Sensei and was very close with Chiba Sensei, and Yamada Sensei. You could see those three different instructors in Paul’s style – this sincere and focused approach to training. Then he died very suddenly. It was a big change and quite a blow to the aikido community. It was a blow to me personally and it was very difficult on his instructors as well.
We have to find instructors that we’re attracted to. For whatever reasons, the student-teacher relationship only strengthens our training. In the USAF, we seem to be developing a wonderful relationship with Hayato Osawa Sensei, though I doubt that he’ll move to the United States. I’m sure he’ll continue coming and influencing our training. As we’re developing our own personal training and continuing our own personal training, that reflects our roots and that reflects our influences. I had alluded to people’s own style of training and I’m so thrilled to see Osawa Sensei. I watch a lot of YouTube videos and Osawa Sensei has his own style, and it reflects his father’s teaching and training style but continues in a self-developing way and I like that.
We had talked a little earlier about how people’s styles change throughout the course of their training in their life, but they continue to represent the roots of where they came from. Many people concentrate on the spiritual aspects of aikido and spiritual development. That’s very important for me in my training to continue to find a way, find myself, and to find my center in my training. That’s why, for me personally, meditation at the beginning of class is very important to me; it’s about me finding my center, opening up my center with breathing in a natural way, and settling into my center. At the end of class, it’s always so much more self-evident, especially after an hour or more of training. That aspect of training, I think, goes back to O-Sensei and talking with his direct students over the years, they all said the same thing to me, none of them understood anything that O-Sensei was saying. Often, he would talk, and they would have to sit in what felt like forever and not understand anything he was saying. Very few students grasped what he was talking about. It wasn’t just ikkyo, shiho nage, and kote gaeshi; it was an internal thing – a sort of personal development, spiritual development from their training. It was a way for them to find themselves.
I don’t see myself as a religious person, but I see myself as a very spiritual person. It’s always been that way for me, and aikido has given me a way to develop that within myself. I have not found the answer or the way, so to speak. Maybe my training will change in the next ten to twenty years if I have that.
I am really impressed with young Ueshiba, with the Dojo-cho at Hombu. His aikido is fantastic and that makes me very happy to see that. I think, even more in my perception and even more so than the current and previous Doshu, I think the next Doshu will really be there for the reawakening of aikido training. Maybe that’s just a romantic idea I have but it makes me very happy to see the kind of focus that he has in his training and style.
MAYTT: What do you think aikido will evolve into without a direct connection to the Founder?
BT: The future of aikido is uncertain, and change is inevitable. The connection with the Hombu Dojo and the experience of visiting instructors will likely persist, providing a link to the roots of aikido. However, the dynamics of aikido, like everything else, will evolve.
The essence of aikido lies in the dojo, in our personal training journeys. It’s about continuous improvement, focus, and the unique paths we each carve in our practice. The application of aikido in real-world scenarios might not be the primary goal, but rather, it’s the transformative journey on the mat.
Change has been a constant in life, but aikido has remained a steadfast element for me. A three-year hiatus due to a foot injury initially seemed like the end of my Aikido journey, but returning to the practice revealed a sense of continuity. The last three years of training feel like “more of the same,” illustrating the enduring nature of my connection with Aikido.
The trajectory of aikido is uncertain, mirroring the uniqueness of each individual’s journey in the martial art. Aikidoka, united by their commitment to the practice, will continue to evolve and diverge in their paths. The influences on my Aikido journey have shifted and deepened, with Kanai Sensei’s style resonating as a profound connection to O-Sensei, despite never having met him. Conversations with Christian Tissier Sensei introduced the distinct style of Seigo Yamaguchi Sensei, opening new avenues of influence.
The diversity of styles and influences from senseis like Osawa Sensei, Yamaguchi Sensei, and Kanai Sensei contributes to the richness of aikido. Each practitioner’s unique journey adds to the collective tapestry of the art. It’s a beautiful and applaudable aspect of aikido to see individuals like Osawa Sensei staying true to their training and style.
In parallel, my experience with music draws parallels to aikido, where exposure to different styles and influences enriches personal growth. As a musician who attends over a hundred shows a year, each experience contributes to the development of your musical expression. Similarly, aikido remains a dynamic journey of self-discovery and growth.
Aikido indeed holds a special place in our lives, offering a profound and meaningful practice. The continuous evolution and adaptation within the art keeps it dynamic and relevant for practitioners. It’s a shared journey with its challenges and rewards, contributing to personal growth and well-being.
The future of aikido will likely reflect both continuity and change. The art may stay rooted in the teachings of influential senseis like Kanai Sensei, but individual practitioners will continue to find their unique paths. Aikido’s essence may endure, but the practice will evolve, shaped by the diverse influences of its practitioners. As you rightly note, “everything changes,” and only time will reveal the course aikido takes in the years to come.
I am looking forward to a time when we can meet in person, share experiences, and celebrate the spirit of aikido. Until then, may your journey on the mat continue to be fulfilling and transformative.
MAYTT: Thank you Toabe Sensei for this wonderful conversation about Kanai!
BT: It was my pleasure!
This is the second part of a two part interview. Read the first part here.
To learn more about aikido and its history in America, click here.
Martial Arts of Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow 