Aikido Basics Quotes

“Remember, we do not rise to the level of our expectations, but we do fall to the level of our training.”
― Phong Thong Dang, Aikido Basics: Everything you need to get started in Aikido - from basic footwork and throws to training

“By practicing slowly, you actually learn the technique better, because you do not allow momentum alone to do the work. Slow motion facilitates the firing of the neural pathway that activates the muscles used. It also helps you use only the muscles and neurons needed, leaving the others relaxed, and preventing any wasted motion.”
― Phong Thong Dang, Aikido Basics: Everything you need to get started in Aikido - from basic footwork and throws to training

“Ai can be translated as meaning "harmony," "unity," or "to join and become one." The concept of harmony in combat is hard for most people to comprehend. We are all used to fighting force with force, to meeting attack with resistance. The idea of meeting an attack with love and harmony appears contradictory and impossible.”
― Phong Thong Dang, Aikido Basics: Everything you need to get started in Aikido - from basic footwork and throws to training

“This emphasis on the philosophy, or worldview, of aikido often makes understanding the art difficult for the beginning student. On one level, the student of aikido must adopt a worldview that accepts violence and attacks. On the other hand, aikido does not meet like with like—aikido does not retaliate with more violence and attacks. It”
― Phong Thong Dang, Aikido Basics: Everything you need to get started in Aikido - from basic footwork and throws to training