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Chicago aikido

The lingering spirit: Zanshin, martial arts and everyday life

"After victory, tighten the cords of your helmet." - Tokugawa IeyasuAfter being thrown by the instructor to demonstrate a technique, a...
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The sound of bursting bubbles: Common myths in the martial arts

Myth /mith/: a popular belief or tradition that has grown up around something or someone; especially: one embodying the ideals and institutions of...
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Building the ethical warrior: How the United States Marine Corps embraced martial arts

The shift in the focus of modern warfare to counterinsurgency has created a need for a new kind of warrior - a warrior with the ethics to protect...
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Coach or sensei? What's the difference?

Disaster struck the Dutch team in Vancouver as their speed skating star, Sven Kramer, was disqualified during the men's 10,000 meter event due to a...
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The importance of etiquette to safety in the dojo

Observe the beginning of every class at the Midwest Aikido Center in Chicago, and you will invariably see the students line up quietly behind the...
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Using the force: A Westerner's attempt to describe ki

The Force is what gives a Jedi his power. It's an energy field created by all living things. It surrounds us and penetrates us. It binds the galaxy...
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Focus on the center: The physics of tanden

The physical center is your belly; if your mind is set there as well, you are assured of victory in any endeavor. - Morihei Ueshiba, Founder of...
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Back to basics: The importance of kihon

Progress comes to those who train and train. Reliance on secret techniques will get you nowhere. - Morihei Ueshiba, Founder of Aikido.During the...
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The importance of bowing in martial arts

Martial arts practice is rooted in the tradition of respect. Respect is shown for self, others, training hall, art, instructor and organization....
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Stay young physically and mentally with martial arts

Scientifically, exercise is proven to help both body and brain function. So while many begin martial arts training to maintain physical fitness or...
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