Aikido and the Dynamic Sphere: An Illustrated Introduction - Hardcover

Westbrook, Adele; Ratti, Oscar

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0804800049 ISBN 13: 9780804800044

Publisher: Tuttle Publishing, 1970

Synopsis

Aikido, the "gentleman's fighting art," neutralizes aggression and renders attackers harmless without injuring them. By controlling body position and understanding its simple physical premises, anyone-regardless of size, strength or weight-can fend off attacks using this sophisticated martial art. This classic text reveals the secrets which enable the stunning displays of physical control practiced in Aikido. Further, it delves into the ethical intention requisite for successful aikido, and enables its readers to harmonize their vital powers-both mental and physical-into the disciplined practice of this elegant martial art.

About this title

About the Author

Adele Westbrook, who works for one of the largest advertising agencies in the world, studied philosophy at Columbia University at the same time co-author Oscar Ratti was doing graduate work in the classical languages. They began to practice aikido together, and while studying under a variety of instructors in the United States and Europe, started the collection of notes and sketches which finally developed into this illustrated introduction to the art of aikido.

Oscar Ratti, now a commercial illustrator, received his degree in classical studies and law from the University of Naples where he was intercollegiate Greek-Roman wrestling champion and a member of the championship judo team. He later came to the United States and began to study aikido with Yasuo Ohara, one of the first instructors to teach in New York. In addition to being co-author of the book, Mr. Ratti provided all the excellent drawings that appear in this volume.

Mr. Ratti and Ms. Westbrook have also taught aikido in New York, working with youth groups at Centers associated with the Y.M.C.A.

Review

"...one of the best books on Aikido on the market. Not only for the beginner, but for the advanced practitioner. It's well respected by most people in Aikido. If you're looking for a good, in-depth book, this is the one you'll want." —RyukyuBooks.com

"...an outstanding introduction to the art of Aikido. Anyone starting out in aikido would do well to buy this book, read the beginning chapters of it and then review it from time to time. Great book!" —AikidoJournal.com

"If you are a student of Aikido, this book should definitely be in your library. If you're not a student of Aikido, this book can still be a useful way to familiarize yourself with the art on a theoretical level. It's also an interesting resource for anyone who wants to do some serious thinking about their martial art. Anyone who has ambitions to write a book on their own martial art should read this one; this is how an art should be presented." —Examiner.com

"...this is a fine addition to any library. [...]the book definitely is worth owning." —BestJudo.com

"It has been a most useful reference for me over the years and I'd highly encourage any adult to make it a part of your personal Aikido library." —Teresa Mastison Sensei, Aikido of Phoenix

Edition details

• Publisher: Tuttle Publishing
• Publication date: 1970
• ISBN 10: 0804800049
• ISBN 13: 9780804800044
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 375