Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere: An Illustrated Introduction (Tuttle Martial Arts)

This book represents the best attempt at documenting Aikido techniques and physical exercises short of training. I got my copy after reading An Open Secret: A Student's Handbook for Learning Aikido Techniques of...

I think this is the best book explaining a specific martial art that I've come across. Why is it exceptional? Several reasons. First, the authors are unusually articulate, and at times almost scholarly. Second, the book addresses both the philosophy of aikido (its tenets, values, and meditative characteristics), as well as the technique of aikido (its movements and defensive tactics), and it explains the link between the philosophy and technique in an especially coherent way. Third, the book delves into details of aikido technique using an extensive set of figural drawings and diagrams, which are easier to understand than a series of photographs would be. Fourth, the book also provides brief background regarding the institutional side of aikido: i.e., how is the art typically taught, what does does a dojo look like, what is the etiquette of a typical class, how does ranking work, etc. There's an almost anthropological quality to some of the material in this book -- again, quite scholarly. About the only aspect of aikido background that it doesn't cover in much detail is the history of the art, or of its founder, Morihei Uyeshiba. Notably, the book acknowledges up front that it provides only a limited introduction to the techniques (at ~370 pages): given its intent as an aikido handbook, rather than an aikido encyclopedia, I don't see that as a flaw. By contrast, there are many other martial arts books that basically consist of lists of techniques, with illustrative photographs that are very difficult for a non-practitioner to follow. Such books are often poorly written or poorly translated, and don't really convey the essence of what a particular martial art is, with regard to technique, philosophy, or pedagogy. This book stands out because it does convey that essence, and because the style of the writing itself actually *feels* a bit like aikido. If you are interested in either aikido or martial arts generally, this book is worth picking up. You won't be disappointed.

This is one of the best books for Aikido practitioners, offering a comprehensive guide with detailed insights for mastering Aikido techniques. It has greatly influenced the Aikido community and is often referenced, though sometimes used without permission, for group or dojo logos. The copy I have is the eleventh printing, and despite being from 1974, the binding and pages remain intact—though the pages have a slight yellowish tint, as expected for its age. It’s a rare find and one of my best purchases.

This is a fantastic book, overall, though I am probably not experienced enough yet to fully utilize it. The techniques are fully illustrated, and there is text to back it up where it's less clear. Foundational techniques like the kote gaeshi are illustrated in great detail, then other techniques that are built off of it are less descriptive, but still show what's going on. This book illustrates the flow of the techniques well, and while I'm sure it would be easier for a more experienced practitioner to follow, it helps me as a beginner to get a better grasp on the techniques that I've learned.

I've bought this book at least four times in my life now because I keep giving it to folks because people need to understand this stuff. Self defense is not only a human right, it's a personal responsibility.

Most of the other reviewers have said it already, so I'll cut to the chase- this is an incredible book. A few months ago, I began learning aikido. Frustrated with the lack of handouts with basic newbie information, which were provided in the judo/jujutsu I used to train at, I went looking for a book. So much of Aikido is bodily physics, and I had begun to draw the kind of force diagram one learns in a basic HS/College Physics course. After reading reviews, I went for this book and I can't say I regret it. It is the most comprehensive text I've seen, and for me the diagrams are much more helpful than more photographic demonstrations, though a combination of both seems to be the best. Perhaps it has to do with the way a person thinks- for me, this book is right on. I bought the book used for under $10, labelled as being in Good condition. I was very impressed wit the quality of the binding and paper, much nicer than your average hardcover and even of the more expensive type of book meant for academia. Definately worth the money, even at more than that!

This is my favorite I have lost it moving 3 times and keep buying again and again it is very foundational.

I started Aikido recently and was inundated with new information. Every technique had its own name (in Japanese!) and it was hard to remember these names with all the moves, only doing them in the dojo a couple times. I don't know how you could make a manual to a martial art better than this one. Each immobilization and projection is clearly labeled and described with great illustrations. It has helped me to understand the terminology and get the basic ideas behind not only the techniques but also the art of Aikido itself. I consistently go back and review the techniques before and after practicing in the dojo. This work continues to do its job of helping me past the terminology and basic ideas of the techniques and leaving me to do real life practice. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in practicing Aikido at any level for any length of time.