Practicing on Your Own

Although aikido is best learned by practicing over and over again with variety in partners, there are a number of ways to enhance your progress by practicing on your own.

For example, on days away from the dojo you can practice the same warm up exercises you do in class before actually starting on techniques.

Or, you can practice jo (staff) and bokken (sword) forms, strikes and cuts.

Additionally, you can visualize yourself performing techniques with a partner, or even shadow techniques by simply performing the movements with an imaginary partner.

Finally, effective aikido comes from proper breathing. Until proper breathing becomes second nature, do yourself a favor and practice deep breathing as often as possible!