Some time ago, there was an interaction on social media that revolved around a video about aikido history. After reading the comments, I was left feeling unsettled; I was disappointed and frustrated by how the online exchange unfolded. However, before explaining what happened, it may be best to come to terms with the idea, definition … Continue reading Martial Arts Historian: The Wider Implications
Every genuine martial arts tradition begins with form. The repetition of patterns, the correction of stances, and the seemingly endless refinement of minute details are the first steps of a path that leads far beyond technique. In Japanese martial arts, this progression is elegantly captured in the triad of Shu-Ha-Ri, a model of learning that … Continue reading Shu-Ha-Ri: Ascending Spiral of Principles by Michael Martin
With a background in dance and a love for movement, Lynne Morrison found herself drawn to Aikido when she saw it for the first time in 1972 with Yoshimitsu Yamada leading a class at the New York Aikikai. Immediately, she signed up and trained intensely when, in 1978, she began teaching classes at New York … Continue reading Interview with Coalition Founder Lynne Morrison: Her Experience with the Independent Coalition of USAF Women
On a whim, Susan Oles decided to try judo after trying to enroll in a jazz class at night school. She studied under Rudy Kizitaff, who would take her to see Takahiko Ishikawa. It was with Ishikawa that she would gain a better appreciation for the art and for his dedication to judo. Today, she … Continue reading Interview with Judo Referee Susan Oles: Getting Judo in Your Blood
Rideshare apps are a convenient way to get around town, especially when traveling at night, leaving a bar after drinking, or just trying to avoid parking hassles. However, using a rideshare app means getting into a stranger’s car, which is never completely risk-free. Often, dangerous situations such as speeding or reckless driving put you at … Continue reading Rideshare Safety Tips: A Complete Guide by Gabriel Spencer
Recently, one of the music groups I follow released a song about the famed Musashi Miyamoto and his A Book of Five Rings. This song inspired me to take another inspection of his manuscript. Instead of reading it this time, I listened to the audiobook, which, I feel, had a different impact on me. What … Continue reading A Layman’s Observation: A Book of Five Rings
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, … Continue reading John Eley: Aikido in Chicago, Through His Eyes, Part II
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 … Continue reading Interview with Takahiko Ishikawa Student Koji Shimada: A Candid Look at the Judo Champion
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 … Continue reading A Theoretical Model of Self-Defense: Bridging Theory and Practice in Response to Real-World Threats By Michael F. Martin
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 … Continue reading Interview with Longtime UK Kenshi and Historian Paul Budden: Kendo’s Varied History and its International Future, Part II
Martial Arts of Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow 