Curriculum
Basic forms. Kihon Waza, or basic techniques, are studied intensively through what amounts to a 2 person kata. The forms are
analyzed from a static perspective to insure effectiveness if one is ever locked down by an attacker. The technique is known for
being direct and effective. Posture is derived from weapons practice and studied in empty handed technique. A powerful foundation
in basics is developed early on in training, as one learns to transcend form to access the principles of the art through the study of
form itself.
Flowing technique. Once the basics are practiced, one learns to apply the principles in motion. Emphasis on timing, perception,
connection and many other facets of the art are studied. They are applied against multiple attackers from all directions as well. The
notion of non-attachment arises to improve efficiency and close openings where one could be countered.
Emphasis on strategy. The two basic strategies in martial arts training are (1) inviting the attack and countering or (2) breaking
into the opponent’s space. These two methods are the primary focus, but other strategies such as taking the center come into play
during practice.
Extensive use of weapons. Weapons training is based upon the same principles of posture, strategy and timing as the empty
handed technique. Further, they expand upon training in extension, awareness, and calm in the face of danger and are critical to
study of the art at more advanced levels. Sword training includes basic exercises for one and two persons, as well as two person
kata's with numerous variations. Self defense often switches to include empty handed applications in the midst of the sword kata's.
Training with the staff is similar in nature, but more extensive.
Emphasis on breathing. Breathing is emphasized in regular training as well as through the use of kiai, or the making of sound in
the execution of movements.
Fundamental principles of the art. All martial arts can be boiled down to technique and understanding of principle, or non-
attachment in the midst of activity. Understanding principle enables one to close all openings to being defeated in the execution of
technique, and so is critical to the execution of successful self defense. However, understanding of principle alone is not adequate
to self defense, as without a technique to execute, one would certainly be injured even if one realizes in advance how the attack will
be launched. Training is designed to develop a practical understanding of technique with an intent to study the underlying principles
and thereby close all openings to being defeated.
Basic forms. Kihon Waza, or basic techniques, are studied intensively through what amounts to a 2 person kata. The forms are
analyzed from a static perspective to insure effectiveness if one is ever locked down by an attacker. The technique is known for
being direct and effective. Posture is derived from weapons practice and studied in empty handed technique. A powerful foundation
in basics is developed early on in training, as one learns to transcend form to access the principles of the art through the study of
form itself.
Flowing technique. Once the basics are practiced, one learns to apply the principles in motion. Emphasis on timing, perception,
connection and many other facets of the art are studied. They are applied against multiple attackers from all directions as well. The
notion of non-attachment arises to improve efficiency and close openings where one could be countered.
Emphasis on strategy. The two basic strategies in martial arts training are (1) inviting the attack and countering or (2) breaking
into the opponent’s space. These two methods are the primary focus, but other strategies such as taking the center come into play
during practice.
Extensive use of weapons. Weapons training is based upon the same principles of posture, strategy and timing as the empty
handed technique. Further, they expand upon training in extension, awareness, and calm in the face of danger and are critical to
study of the art at more advanced levels. Sword training includes basic exercises for one and two persons, as well as two person
kata's with numerous variations. Self defense often switches to include empty handed applications in the midst of the sword kata's.
Training with the staff is similar in nature, but more extensive.
Emphasis on breathing. Breathing is emphasized in regular training as well as through the use of kiai, or the making of sound in
the execution of movements.
Fundamental principles of the art. All martial arts can be boiled down to technique and understanding of principle, or non-
attachment in the midst of activity. Understanding principle enables one to close all openings to being defeated in the execution of
technique, and so is critical to the execution of successful self defense. However, understanding of principle alone is not adequate
to self defense, as without a technique to execute, one would certainly be injured even if one realizes in advance how the attack will
be launched. Training is designed to develop a practical understanding of technique with an intent to study the underlying principles
and thereby close all openings to being defeated.
| Steve Kanney (3rd from right stabbing himself in the foot with a sword), taking seminar with Morihiro Saito Sensei (Picture taken in early 1990's). Steve Kanney is the chief instructor of Scarsdale Aikido |
Question: What is the difference between the different Aikido organizations (between the Aikikai and various others, as well as
within the Aikikai itself)?
There are a fair number of Aikido organizations: Tomiki Aikido, the Ki society, and Yoshinkan to name a few. These were started by
students of the founder who wanted to go off on their own. Within the Aikikai, the organization run by the founder's family, we have
the USAF, AAA, ASU, Pacific Aikido Federation, etc, etc, etc. From time to time, each organization or system may maintain that it is
the best or most advanced system, or that they are the only ones that truly understand the founder's intent.
Technical differences aside, the development of each individual belongs not to a particular organization or system. Rather, the
development belongs to the individual themselves. This is true in all martial arts. Along those lines, obviously good teachers are an
essential element, but effort is also quite critical. The greater the effort, the greater the result; the lessor the effort, the lesser the
result. At Scarsdale Aikido, we attempt to correctly follow the founder of the art, and we welcome visitors to our school to observe
how we train.
within the Aikikai itself)?
There are a fair number of Aikido organizations: Tomiki Aikido, the Ki society, and Yoshinkan to name a few. These were started by
students of the founder who wanted to go off on their own. Within the Aikikai, the organization run by the founder's family, we have
the USAF, AAA, ASU, Pacific Aikido Federation, etc, etc, etc. From time to time, each organization or system may maintain that it is
the best or most advanced system, or that they are the only ones that truly understand the founder's intent.
Technical differences aside, the development of each individual belongs not to a particular organization or system. Rather, the
development belongs to the individual themselves. This is true in all martial arts. Along those lines, obviously good teachers are an
essential element, but effort is also quite critical. The greater the effort, the greater the result; the lessor the effort, the lesser the
result. At Scarsdale Aikido, we attempt to correctly follow the founder of the art, and we welcome visitors to our school to observe
how we train.
| Aikido Westchester: Martial Arts Training in Westchester County NY Aikido Westchester Curriculum |
| Pursue compassion and ethics over fame, glory and fortune. This is the true source of power in martial arts training. An attacker may not know of your popularity, but he will feel the weight of your character. |
