Indoor driving ranges and putting greens are great during the winter, but what else are you doing to improve your golf game in the off-season? Relaxation, balance, center of gravity, and coordination – many would argue that these are all important components of an excellent golf game. The Japanese art of Aikido is a fantastic secret weapon to maintain and improve your golf game.
Aikido (pronounced 'eye'-'key'-'doh') is a unique form of Japanese exercise that fully engages your mind and body, providing a powerful vehicle for generating more power in your swing and improving your short game coordination. Aikido is a martial art, but can be practiced at any level of intensity according to the needs or physical capabilities of the golfer. In Aikido, there are no punches or kicks, unlike most other martial arts, so injury is extremely rare. An Aikido student learns to move their body effectively and efficiently by employing moves that at times almost look like a golf swing. These moves teach you to first evade and then off balance your partner (who is pretending to be an attacker) without harming him or her.
People of all ages practice Aikido, but it is particularly beneficial for adults. In fact, you're never too old to start practicing Aikido. Several of our instructors' teachers in Japan continue to train in their 70s and 80s! This is because Aikido builds coordination and body awareness exponentially, thus keeping the body fit and agile. Body awareness is, perhaps, one of the most essential qualities of an exceptional golf game.
During the golf season and in the off-season, Aikido helps keeps your muscles and joints strong and limber. It maintains and even improves your sense of balance and posture, which, of course, further contribute to a great golf game. Furthermore, Aikido spends a significant amount of time improving wrist health. Specific, Japanese Aikido wrist exercises maintain an ideal amount of limberness and flexibility in the wrist, which not only improves wrist strength and flexibility, but actually prevents injury on the golf course.
The art of Aikido and the art of golf have much in common. That is why Aikido can help improve your golf game. Any experienced golfer knows that the power of a golf swing derives from the hips, not from force pushed through your arms. Aikido's power also originates from the hips. Golfers know that the harder you try to hit the ball, the less distance the ball will travel. So, too, with Aikido. The harder you try to perform a technique, the less effective the technique will be. Every golfer has, at one time or another experienced their best drive and greatest distance when they weren't "trying" to hit the ball. They just did it! That was because their mind was at ease, empty and in the present (not the past or future). Every Aikido student has had the exact same experience.
Both golf and Aikido require your complete and undivided attention. Many have likened golf to the Japanese concept of Zen. This deliberate attention to the present moment in a golf game actually creates stress relief and may, in fact, partly account for the almost addictive quality of golf that many people experience. In addition to providing stress relief and a clear state of mind, it has the added benefit of being quite cardiovascular. So you de-stress and stay strong and fit over the winter at the same time.
In Japanese, Aikido translates as "the way of harmony." It is meant to convey the notion that through the constant quest for self-perfection and/or harmony we can achieve great success in our lives. Many of the great golfers have expressed that the constant striving toward perfection or self-mastery is one of the things that attracts them most to the game of golf. If you share this sentiment, then you will particularly love practicing the art of Aikido, especially when you see your handicap drop.
Come discover how Aikido can serve as a catalyst for dramatically improving your golf game. We invite you to come try a class at our Aikido school in Castle Rock, Colorado for free. Visit us at www.CRaikido.com or call us at 720-221-3665.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Yakusokugeko – The Proper Roles of Uke and Nage
Since Aikido is about avoiding struggle and performing a technique with the least amount of effort, we must consider our roles as both Uke and Nage.
As Nage, first and foremost, it is our responsibility to protect Uke. If there is resistance, if one is off balance or if the technique just is not going as it should, just relax, slow down and find your "way." Aikido is about power - an inner power - rather than force. Try not to force a technique. As Nage it is our responsibility to smoothly establish and maintain a connection with Uke throughout each technique.
As Uke it is our responsibility to provide a realistic attack (but not overly aggressive), and then move our bodies in relationship to Nage's movement so as to be in the safest position possible, while maintaining a sense of connection.
Grabs by Uke should be firm, but not rigid. The hand and wrist will be used to control whatever is being grabbed. The rest of the body should remain loose and able to adapt to the situation.
Strikes by Uke should have good extension, without locking out your own joints. Locking out joint can lead to injuries. Always try to keep some bend in the elbows, and give about 95% of your full energy. You do not want to over commit and not be able to react.
The loss of connection is an opportunity for either Uke or Nage to commence a new attack. Therefore, maintaining the connection is of the utmost importance.
Remember, you take ukemi to avoid injury only. Uke must be able to respond appropriately to the situation. This requires much training and introspection as how to do this best.
"Free of weakness ignore the sharp attacks of your enemies: Step in and act!"
– Morihei Ueshiba
As Nage, first and foremost, it is our responsibility to protect Uke. If there is resistance, if one is off balance or if the technique just is not going as it should, just relax, slow down and find your "way." Aikido is about power - an inner power - rather than force. Try not to force a technique. As Nage it is our responsibility to smoothly establish and maintain a connection with Uke throughout each technique.
As Uke it is our responsibility to provide a realistic attack (but not overly aggressive), and then move our bodies in relationship to Nage's movement so as to be in the safest position possible, while maintaining a sense of connection.
Grabs by Uke should be firm, but not rigid. The hand and wrist will be used to control whatever is being grabbed. The rest of the body should remain loose and able to adapt to the situation.
Strikes by Uke should have good extension, without locking out your own joints. Locking out joint can lead to injuries. Always try to keep some bend in the elbows, and give about 95% of your full energy. You do not want to over commit and not be able to react.
The loss of connection is an opportunity for either Uke or Nage to commence a new attack. Therefore, maintaining the connection is of the utmost importance.
Remember, you take ukemi to avoid injury only. Uke must be able to respond appropriately to the situation. This requires much training and introspection as how to do this best.
"Free of weakness ignore the sharp attacks of your enemies: Step in and act!"
– Morihei Ueshiba
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Unique Japanese Exercise Provides Stress Relief to Castle Rock!
There is a great new form of stress relief available in Castle Rock. It's called Aikido (pronounced 'eye'-'key'-do'). Aikido is a unique form of Japanese exercise that fully engages your mind and body providing an excellent outlet for stress relief. Aikido is a martial art, but can be practiced at any level of intensity according to the needs or physical capabilities of the student. Unlike most martial arts, there are no punches or kicks in Aikido so injury is extremely rare. A student learns to move their body effectively and efficiently by employing almost dance-like moves that first evade and then off balance their partner (who is pretending to be an attacker) without injuring him or her. In addition to providing stress relief and a clear state of mind, it has the added benefit of being quite cardiovascular. So you de-stress and get fit at the same time.
People of all ages practice Aikido, but it is particularly beneficial for adults. In fact, you’re never too old to start practicing Aikido. Several of our instructors’ teachers in Japan continue to train in their 70s and 80s!
Lose yourself for an hour or so one, two or three times per week by engaging in this fun Japanese exercise that requires your complete and undivided attention. We promise you that when you’re practicing Aikido you won't be able to think about anything else. You won't be thinking about what went wrong at work yesterday, what you didn't get done at home today, or what you have to do tomorrow. You will just be at Aikido, in the present, with an empty mind. This is what produces stress-relief and relaxation - a mind and body that are fully living in the present, not the past and not the future. Everyone, at one time or another, needs to hold their awareness in the present. In fact, many experts and philosophers have suggested that that is all stress really is: the product of living in the past, future or both simultaneously at the expense of living in the present. Aikido lowers stress by engaging your entire being. It also teaches you how to breathe properly during times of stress.
Exercising on gym machines like treadmills or elliptical trainers doesn't necessarily relieve stress because although you may be exercising, your brain is still free to think about and focus on all the things that stress you out each day. When you're practicing Aikido, you can't think of anything else but the present. The hour just flies by and you’re left with a satisfying physical and psychological sensation that leaves you wanting more.
Classes are held weekday evenings in Castle Rock to accommodate working adults. We have several married couples who practice together. Parents who both want to de-stress through Aikido can take turns by alternating which nights of the week each attends Aikido class. Or, get a friend, neighbor or relative to watch the kids and come together.
If you don-t live in Castle Rock, don't let that stop you. About half of our students come from as far north as Westminster and as far south as Colorado Springs. Why? It’s because our program is that good at relieving stress and because it is so much fun. "Aikido is my meditation," says Sue, a resident of Colorado Springs who commutes to Castle Rock to practice Aikido, "and I always feel great after class because it helps me shake off daily stresses. It is a wonderful [program] with a great vibe... I couldn't have asked for anything better."
Come discover how Aikido can serve as a catalyst for breaking stress in your life. We invite you to come try a class at our Aikido school in Castle Rock for free. Visit us at www.CRaikido.com or call us at 720-221-3665.
People of all ages practice Aikido, but it is particularly beneficial for adults. In fact, you’re never too old to start practicing Aikido. Several of our instructors’ teachers in Japan continue to train in their 70s and 80s!
Lose yourself for an hour or so one, two or three times per week by engaging in this fun Japanese exercise that requires your complete and undivided attention. We promise you that when you’re practicing Aikido you won't be able to think about anything else. You won't be thinking about what went wrong at work yesterday, what you didn't get done at home today, or what you have to do tomorrow. You will just be at Aikido, in the present, with an empty mind. This is what produces stress-relief and relaxation - a mind and body that are fully living in the present, not the past and not the future. Everyone, at one time or another, needs to hold their awareness in the present. In fact, many experts and philosophers have suggested that that is all stress really is: the product of living in the past, future or both simultaneously at the expense of living in the present. Aikido lowers stress by engaging your entire being. It also teaches you how to breathe properly during times of stress.
Exercising on gym machines like treadmills or elliptical trainers doesn't necessarily relieve stress because although you may be exercising, your brain is still free to think about and focus on all the things that stress you out each day. When you're practicing Aikido, you can't think of anything else but the present. The hour just flies by and you’re left with a satisfying physical and psychological sensation that leaves you wanting more.
Classes are held weekday evenings in Castle Rock to accommodate working adults. We have several married couples who practice together. Parents who both want to de-stress through Aikido can take turns by alternating which nights of the week each attends Aikido class. Or, get a friend, neighbor or relative to watch the kids and come together.
If you don-t live in Castle Rock, don't let that stop you. About half of our students come from as far north as Westminster and as far south as Colorado Springs. Why? It’s because our program is that good at relieving stress and because it is so much fun. "Aikido is my meditation," says Sue, a resident of Colorado Springs who commutes to Castle Rock to practice Aikido, "and I always feel great after class because it helps me shake off daily stresses. It is a wonderful [program] with a great vibe... I couldn't have asked for anything better."
Come discover how Aikido can serve as a catalyst for breaking stress in your life. We invite you to come try a class at our Aikido school in Castle Rock for free. Visit us at www.CRaikido.com or call us at 720-221-3665.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
New & Fun Form of Adult Fitness in Castle Rock!
Here's a reality of life when it comes to exercise; "If it’s boring, you won't do it. Period!" Most people know they should exercise more, but most people simply don't. This not necessarily because they don't want to be in better shape, but because so many popular kinds of exercises and fitness routines are utterly boring! If you're bored of endlessly walking on treadmills or elliptical trainers at the gym while watching overly-violent news broadcasts; or if you've tried yoga and Pilates but find them painfully slow, then I have a suggestion for you. Come try Aikido!
Aikido, pronounced 'eye'-'key'-'doh', is a unique Japanese exercise that engages your entire body in a really fun and entertaining way. Aikido is a martial art, but can be practiced at any level of intensity according to the needs or physical capabilities of the student. Unlike most martial arts, there are no punches or kicks in Aikido so injury is extremely rare. You learn to move their body effectively and efficiently by employing almost dance-like moves that first evade and then off balance your partner (who is pretending to be an attacker) without injuring him or her.
People of all ages practice Aikido, but it is particularly beneficial for adults. In fact, you're never too old to start practicing Aikido. Several of our instructors' teachers in Japan continue to train in their 70s and 80s! Many former martial arts student once again take up Aikido as they enter their 40s and 50s because Aikido is much easier on your body than other more well-known martial arts like Karate and Taekwondo. Most of all, Aikido is fun! Every class is different, so you don't get bored. Every technique requires your complete and undivided attention, so you can't "zone out." One of the most common things we hear is, "Wow! The time just flew by. I can't believe it is over so quickly!" Also, Aikido can be a great cardiovascular workout for the body… but there is a good chance that you won't even notice that until you are done with class! Instead of feeling exhausted after a class, most people feel exhilarated. One of our students, Doug, a 55 year-old Castle Rock resident, has lost 35 pounds since April when he first started practicing Aikido!
Many people have more energy, not less, after Aikido class. The reason why is because when you practice less fun forms of exercise, that don't simultaneously engage your brain, time seems to move much… much… slower. However, Aikido requires you to focus constantly on what you are doing so much that time flies by! Aikido is so engaging to your body and to your mind, that there is a synergistic energy created between the two that absolutely reinvigorates you. Somewhat paradoxically, you are also left in relaxed, tranquil state when you're done.
Classes are held weekday evenings in Castle Rock to accommodate working adults. If you don't live in Castle Rock, hey, no problem! About half of our students come from outside Castle Rock. Some drive from as far north as Westminster and as far south as Colorado Springs to come practice Aikido with us. Our instructors and programs are so good that people are willing to travel, if necessary. It's just that much fun!
Come discover how Aikido can serve as a catalyst for getting you moving and in to shape without boring you to death. We invite you to come try a class in Castle Rock for free. Visit us at http://www.craikido.com/ or call us at 720-221-3665.
Aikido, pronounced 'eye'-'key'-'doh', is a unique Japanese exercise that engages your entire body in a really fun and entertaining way. Aikido is a martial art, but can be practiced at any level of intensity according to the needs or physical capabilities of the student. Unlike most martial arts, there are no punches or kicks in Aikido so injury is extremely rare. You learn to move their body effectively and efficiently by employing almost dance-like moves that first evade and then off balance your partner (who is pretending to be an attacker) without injuring him or her.
People of all ages practice Aikido, but it is particularly beneficial for adults. In fact, you're never too old to start practicing Aikido. Several of our instructors' teachers in Japan continue to train in their 70s and 80s! Many former martial arts student once again take up Aikido as they enter their 40s and 50s because Aikido is much easier on your body than other more well-known martial arts like Karate and Taekwondo. Most of all, Aikido is fun! Every class is different, so you don't get bored. Every technique requires your complete and undivided attention, so you can't "zone out." One of the most common things we hear is, "Wow! The time just flew by. I can't believe it is over so quickly!" Also, Aikido can be a great cardiovascular workout for the body… but there is a good chance that you won't even notice that until you are done with class! Instead of feeling exhausted after a class, most people feel exhilarated. One of our students, Doug, a 55 year-old Castle Rock resident, has lost 35 pounds since April when he first started practicing Aikido!
Many people have more energy, not less, after Aikido class. The reason why is because when you practice less fun forms of exercise, that don't simultaneously engage your brain, time seems to move much… much… slower. However, Aikido requires you to focus constantly on what you are doing so much that time flies by! Aikido is so engaging to your body and to your mind, that there is a synergistic energy created between the two that absolutely reinvigorates you. Somewhat paradoxically, you are also left in relaxed, tranquil state when you're done.
Classes are held weekday evenings in Castle Rock to accommodate working adults. If you don't live in Castle Rock, hey, no problem! About half of our students come from outside Castle Rock. Some drive from as far north as Westminster and as far south as Colorado Springs to come practice Aikido with us. Our instructors and programs are so good that people are willing to travel, if necessary. It's just that much fun!
Come discover how Aikido can serve as a catalyst for getting you moving and in to shape without boring you to death. We invite you to come try a class in Castle Rock for free. Visit us at http://www.craikido.com/ or call us at 720-221-3665.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba
Morihei Ueshiba was one of history's greatest martial artists. Even at age eighty, he could disarm any foe, down any number of attackers, and even pin an opponent with a single finger. Although virtually invincible as a warrior, he was, above all, a man of peace who detested fighting, war and any kind of violence. His way was that of Aikido, "the art of peace." He is referred to as O Sensei, "the great teacher."
Morihei Ueshiba spent his youth and early adulthood training under a variety of sword and Jujutsu masters. As he grew older he experienced increasing disquiet stemming, in part, from his rather violent youth, feeling that training for the sake of winning was not enough. One day, after a long, arduous period of training and meditation, he came to recognize an innate understanding that the true purpose of the martial arts was to be the promotion of universal peace and love. He saw that the ideal victory was a conflict resolved without winner or loser. He began to change his martial techniques and practices he had learned throughout his life to align his art with his new understanding. This led to the formal development of Aikido.
"In Aikido, we never attack. An attack is proof that one is out of control. Never run away from any kind of challenge, but do not try to suppress or control an opponent unnaturally. Let attackers come any way they like and then blend with them. Never chase after opponents. Redirect each attack and get firmly behind it."
– Morihei Ueshiba
****
Castle Rock Aikido is a traditional, Japanese Aikido martial arts school in Castle Rock, Colorado located just 20 minutes south of Denver Metro and only 30 minutes north of Colorado Springs.
Visit www.craikido.com to get a coupon for a free class.
Morihei Ueshiba spent his youth and early adulthood training under a variety of sword and Jujutsu masters. As he grew older he experienced increasing disquiet stemming, in part, from his rather violent youth, feeling that training for the sake of winning was not enough. One day, after a long, arduous period of training and meditation, he came to recognize an innate understanding that the true purpose of the martial arts was to be the promotion of universal peace and love. He saw that the ideal victory was a conflict resolved without winner or loser. He began to change his martial techniques and practices he had learned throughout his life to align his art with his new understanding. This led to the formal development of Aikido.
"In Aikido, we never attack. An attack is proof that one is out of control. Never run away from any kind of challenge, but do not try to suppress or control an opponent unnaturally. Let attackers come any way they like and then blend with them. Never chase after opponents. Redirect each attack and get firmly behind it."
– Morihei Ueshiba
****
Castle Rock Aikido is a traditional, Japanese Aikido martial arts school in Castle Rock, Colorado located just 20 minutes south of Denver Metro and only 30 minutes north of Colorado Springs.
Visit www.craikido.com to get a coupon for a free class.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Natural Movement & Philosophy - A Wholistic Exercise
The Philosophy of Aikido
Much like a hurricane, tornado or tidal wave, the forces found in nature are efficient, rational, and soft, while the center is immovable, firm, and stable. Of course, these forces may not seem rational or soft relative to human experience, but relative to itself, these forces are perfectly balanced. This principle of a firm center and a soft, adaptable periphery is universally consistent -- and must be true for each person, as well. The culmination of Aikido is expressed by aligning one's own center with the center expressed throughout nature. One becomes "resilient" inside, yet this strength is expressed softly and powerfully.
The movements of Aikido maintain this firm and stable center simultaneously emphasizing spherical rotation characterized by flowing, circular motions. These pivoting, entering and circling motions are used to blend with, to control and to overcome an opponent. The principle of spherical rotation makes it possible to defend one’s self from an opponent of superior size, strength and experience.
Although Aikido movements are soft, logical and smooth, as are those found in nature, by applying a bit of force, these techniques can be devastatingly effective. The gentle quality of Aikido makes it appealing to many people. It not only provides excellent exercise and teaches proper etiquette and self-control, but for some it also offers spiritual growth and evolution.
***
Many people are surprised when they find out that half of our students are over 40 years old. One reason could be because of the way Aikido blends natural movement with practical life philosophy. Castle Rock Aikido is a Japanese martial art school. Visit http://www.craikido.com/ for a coupon for a free class.
Read our story "Residents Over 50 Taking Up Martial Arts"
Much like a hurricane, tornado or tidal wave, the forces found in nature are efficient, rational, and soft, while the center is immovable, firm, and stable. Of course, these forces may not seem rational or soft relative to human experience, but relative to itself, these forces are perfectly balanced. This principle of a firm center and a soft, adaptable periphery is universally consistent -- and must be true for each person, as well. The culmination of Aikido is expressed by aligning one's own center with the center expressed throughout nature. One becomes "resilient" inside, yet this strength is expressed softly and powerfully.
The movements of Aikido maintain this firm and stable center simultaneously emphasizing spherical rotation characterized by flowing, circular motions. These pivoting, entering and circling motions are used to blend with, to control and to overcome an opponent. The principle of spherical rotation makes it possible to defend one’s self from an opponent of superior size, strength and experience.
Although Aikido movements are soft, logical and smooth, as are those found in nature, by applying a bit of force, these techniques can be devastatingly effective. The gentle quality of Aikido makes it appealing to many people. It not only provides excellent exercise and teaches proper etiquette and self-control, but for some it also offers spiritual growth and evolution.
***
Many people are surprised when they find out that half of our students are over 40 years old. One reason could be because of the way Aikido blends natural movement with practical life philosophy. Castle Rock Aikido is a Japanese martial art school. Visit http://www.craikido.com/ for a coupon for a free class.
Read our story "Residents Over 50 Taking Up Martial Arts"
Monday, October 22, 2007
Castle Rock AIKIDO's Mission Statement
It is the mission of Castle Rock AIKIDO "to forge in our students a strength of character so strong, that conflict becomes unnecessary." Many assume that the "conflict" we refer to in our mission statement is physical conflict such as fighting with others. However, the conflict we mean to emphasize is inner conflict - the mental, emotional and even spiritual conflict most of us struggle within each and every day. Through the practice of Aikido we discover within ourselves a physical path to self-mastery…
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