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The Art of Aikido    by Kisshimaru Ueshiba Amazon.com order for
Art of Aikido
by Kisshimaru Ueshiba
Order:  USA  Can
Kodansha International, 2004 (2004)
Hardcover
* * *   Reviewed by John Kalaidopoulos

Aikido is arguably the most philosophical of the Japanese martial arts, and this book is informative on the philosophical, as well as the technical, aspects of aikido. Kisshimaru Ueshiba was the most renowned instructor of the art, being the son of the founder, Morihei Ueshiba. This gave him unique insight, and greater authority than any other instructor or author of aikido literature.

The philosophical/spiritual aspects of The Art of Aikido (which was translated from Japanese by John Stevens) are easy to understand for both beginners and seasoned martial artists. The techniques, which incorporate the circular 'En' movement, are illustrated by 650 dynamic black and white photographs, taken from above. However, I found the photographed techniques were a little difficult to follow, and have seen step by step explanations arranged better in other martial art books.

Overall, I would recommend that any martial artist should have this book in their library, as it offers concise insight into aikido from a renowned authority on the art.

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