What do I think of Aikido?

[@daotran5707]

Title: What do I think of Aikido? 7 and a half minutes in: Are we alone in the universe?

[@al-imranadore1182]

In his mind he is screaming that Akido is 90% bulshit.

[@thedon9670]

HAha that's what I was thinking too. So funny to listen to :)

[@dicksenormuss6211]

Aikido students "when they invade, we will use their atmospheric entry momentum against them"

[@jpsholland]

@@al-imranadore1182 NEVER try to talk around wat other might think in your opinion. That YOU think Aikido is bullshit is because others yell it around. Your far away from understanding martial arts.

[@varanid9]

@@al-imranadore1182 Nah, Ramsey's pretty straightforward; if he had been thinking that, that's exactly what he would have said, though, not in those words. He said exactly what he meant to say, as he always does.

[@scottyg4605]

I love Aikido, I shop there all of the time for the wooden furniture and the Swedish meatballs 😋

[@ginshin8246]

IKEA-Do

[@tonybubutievski4288]

Lmao 😂

[@pulynanyalikibitz1301]

Funny AF 🤣

[@yei123mar]

Woops I confused it with Aldi

[@cheapmovies25]

Steven makes the best meatballs...

[@landor5138]

I once went to an Aikido class in college, I had a mild background in boxing meaning i never really competed, but I trained and sparred, so I'm not all that great. Instructor picked me for a demonstration and asked me to throw a punch and he would use Aikido techniques to take me down, threw a jab and had to stop short, as he couldn't catch my arm. tried again, same thing happen, he then asked me to throw a punch in slow motion to demonstrate. Basically the whole class was sparring in slow motion. That's when I knew the class wasn't for me.

[@aljoschalong625]

A boxer will generally win against Aikido, sure. But as you describe it your Aikido teacher was really crap.

[@danieletrotta5452]

so unless you have super speed like flash or quicksilver you cant use aikido in a fight and i want call that sparring , the sparring is another thing , in the reality you dont have super speed so it will never work; i have done more then 2 years of boxe among other things and my instructor tell me that when you shot a punch the return have to be faster then the going so it is impossible that someone can catch your arms like a judoka of example(that is a lot way better than an aikidoka) , another tell me that if a jab is good you cant see it arriving even with the best reflexes, so for me try to catch a jab is something only a clown try to do

[@joesoon2040]

I am a boxer , definitely Aikido can’t catch hold of my left jabs BUT if you somehow missed and let Aikido catch hold of you -- that’s the end !You will be “ The heavier you are The Harder you Fall “ Knowing any one of Art of Self Defense will definitely boost you Self Confidence ! And health/ well being ! I respect all The Art of Self Defense!

[@aljoschalong625]

@@danieletrotta5452 Generally I would agree. But it depends a bit what you call a fight. A professional MMA fight? Some bully on the street? Anyone who has some experience in boxing? Then you're right of course. But actually the only two times I was attacked, it was in a bar, where a drunken guy wanted to pick a fight and grabbed my shirt. So I used an Aikido wrist lock and the problem was solved. Knocking him down wouldn't have been a better solution. And again: Yes, to try to get a hold of a jab and try Aikido techniques won't work.

[@danieletrotta5452]

@@joesoon2040 i have done boxe for 3 year and about the same time jujitsu (and a lot of other things but is not the point now) , the first thing my boxe trainer teach me was that the return of a punch is faster then the go for avoid catch tecnique of the people that use to practise judo or similar and when i spar with several jujitsu master(i do a lot of joruney) nobody can catch my arm when i do a jab and you have to think that for that tecnique(wrist) you have to catch with both the hand turn the enemy hand and after the tecnique begins with the body,of course i can use other jujitsu tecnique if the first miss , i can catch and lock elbow or shoulder but to lock the wrist if someone know the boxe ...man is sci fi , for the self confidence yes can be a good thing if you are in the middle , but if your confidence is yet more boosted you became an asshole and in general a fake self confidence can be dangerous when you have to fight for real in the street, for the health part i think that run or to a random aerobic course in the gym is way better for your health and in the specific for improve the cardiovascular efficensy sorry if wrong something in grammar or words

[@jwhippet8313]

Could you imagine if people treated athletic swimming like they treat martial arts. "Back stroke is fake. You'd die in the ocean backstroking." "No, back stroke is undrownable."

[@ericwalsh2954]

I think the problem with martial arts is people will take they're own inability as a way to say it will never work, for example for years people said karate was useless for actual fighting because the only people they knew of is the fat guy next to the deli, then wonderboy showed that when done right it works,it also doesn't help that (while using your analogy) the ones saying that the backstroke isn't usable are also the ones who arnt even in the water

[@pulynanyalikibitz1301]

@J Whippet Loved your comment. Way more enlightened then it seems on it's face.

[@simoneriksson8329]

Good comparision!

[@nickelmanful]

@@ericwalsh2954 or people shut down aikido moves with practical fighting skills

[@ericwalsh2954]

@darren garrett aikido doesn't work because it's not designed to be effective

[@Mnelissen1968]

Aikido only works when you are under siege or on deadly grounds.

[@Noble_Savage704]

Ah! I love what you did there....Aikido does make one....hard to kill

[@chrisb5443]

What if your marked for death?

[@dwrabauke]

@@chrisb5443 Well, then you are already Half Past Dead.

[@darkwolverine007]

As an not english language native, first i didnt get it, but after a little... GOOD ONE *insert laughing emoticon here* (no offense to Aikido practicioners or anything like that by the way)

[@thewarroom3117]

Hahahahhaha.... Steven segul is unless

[@StefanStenudd]

Ramsey Dewey, I'm an aikido practitioner since more years than I care to count, and your words about aikido are wiser than most I have heard within the aikido community. You express yourself thoughtfully, with compassion and a wonderful sense of humor. I've had the fortune of getting to know people from many martial arts - old and new ones - and my impression is always the same: When they have devoted themselves to their art seriously, they are gentle, friendly, respectful, open minded, and curious. You are yet another splendid proof of it. I am sorry you had to suffer aikido trolls in the comments you mentioned, although you said nothing to offend anyone. I salute you. I also agree with you about the innumerable worlds out there in the cosmos :)

[@klarion]

I question anyone who takes random youtube comments seriously and devotes an entire video to discuss that.

[@varanid9]

@@klarion Question him about what?? A "random" comment as opposed to what? Ramsey picks them out for various reasons, usually because they express a thought he's encountered frequently and he wishes to set the record straight or provide information. That's exactly why he has this channel.

[@klarion]

@@varanid9 question his rationality... I gave it a chance and didn't think it was worth the time. You have to be too invested in this soap opera to care.

[@varanid9]

@@klarion you clearly cared enough to comment but not enough to know what you were commenting on?? Alrighty, then.

[@klarion]

@@varanid9 silly comment...

[@feudingdrums9124]

"Progress comes to those who train and train; reliance on secret techniques will get you nowhere" - The founder of Aikido; Morihei Ueshiba

[@UnexpectedWonder]

Really though!

[@iamalpharius9483]

"Reliance on Aikido will get you beat to death." Every realistic and practices fighter.

[@NesconProductions]

@@iamalpharius9483 No style beats gun-ju - Indiana Jones kzbin.info/www/bejne/bYrcc6eDrb-ah9U - lol! In all seriousness as I put in a more in depth post elsewhere here Aikido is not a fighting style but one made for self-defense meaning not designed for those looking for a fight rather those looking to avoid one. Much like Indian Jones was in the clip I included above - path of least resistance..

[@NesconProductions]

Well said.. Would add that Mr. Dewey acknowledged Morihei Ueshiba background in several different martial art style before developing Aikido. Example in Mr. Dewey's extensive interview with Yi Long he admitted that traditional Chinese arts (Kung Fu, Wing Chun, Tai Chi, etc.) in which he was trained are not the best for fighting. To be the best pure fighter means incorporating different styles and constant training.

[@floydvaughn836]

@@NesconProductions Bruce Lee. Practically verbatim.

[@lsporter88]

I used to practice Aikido. The moves you learn can be useful in combat. But you aren't going to be good at combat unless you spar. You don't spar in traditional Aikido. If you were to spar using Aikido....it would look like Close Combat Jujitsu (stand up fighting). I came to Aikido having trained in Taekwondo many years earlier. That and having played Football in High School. So I was used to being brutally attacked in different ways and using every part of my body to strike an opponent and put him down. If you have that kind of background, Aikido skills are good to add to your tool chest. It gives you even more options, more importantly it gives you the choice to be more compassionate and control an opponent without having to maim him. But if all you have ever practiced is Aikido, without ever having had to be in a real fight, or never having been in a Combat Sport, or never having trained in a discipline where they spar......then you probably don't know anything about actual combat. That's not a poor reflection on AIkido, because that's not what Aikido is for. Traditional Aikido is not there to teach you how to be violent, it's there to give experienced fighters more tools and a choice. I'm glad you did this video.

[@Skylander404]

Would you recommend learning Aikido if you have grappling experience? I've trained in freestyle and greco roman wrestling for about eleven years and was looking around for ways to expand my arsenal.

[@Hon_cb1kr]

Well said. I agree

[@lsporter88]

Sicam -- It would help you expand. Sounds like you've got Grappling covered......try Kickboxing if you want to be well rounded.

[@iatsd]

+Sicam At the right school, sure. At almost any school you should come away with a better sense of timing and distance. The timing you'll have from wrestling, but the distance aspect changes your view. Learning how to judge distance, what counts as a threat and what can be ignored, how to deal with mutiples across distance. You'll probably find the way they (usually) fall to be odd to adapt to. It all depends on what you want to get out of it - depending on what that is (& depending on the options you've got for aikido schools around you) aikido may or may not be a good choice.

[@lsporter88]

iatsd -- Great answer.

[@johnmaguire3608]

How dare you assume that I would be offended by something you say.

[@texasnewt]

Ha, good one!

[@randomuser5443]

Jim Jones Damn, you killed them

[@jestfullgremblim8002]

Lol

[@cgreggain]

This the best description of Aikido from a non practitioner I have ever heard I have 10 yrs of Aikido practice

[@pats3714]

It's an ending art not a beginning art,

[@argi0774]

Why are you practising this crap?

[@josephbedwell3164]

How long would I have to practice Aikido to get to Steven Segal's level?

[@argi0774]

@@josephbedwell3164 Why would you want this? Wasting your time?

[@josephbedwell3164]

@@argi0774 I would do it just for funsies.

[@distane8376]

You mocked Aikido. I am telling Steven Seagal on you.

[@JourneyToTheCage]

Distane 83 Stephen seagal invented MMA while he was in Japan

[@inkdreaper874]

😂 😂 😂 😂 😂 😂 😂

[@BirdofHerm3s]

He'll eat ramsey, literally... did you see his pokeball stomach?

[@shaundouglas2057]

OH NO NOT STEVEN SEAGAL, TREMBLE IN FEAR.

[@aaronrichard1526]

Suburban Slingshots : yeah.. didn’t he teach and trained “the spider - Anderson Silva” how to fight. If not for Steven Aikido, Silva would have been a nobody 😂😂😂😂😂

[@johnmason8372]

The good thing about upsetting Aikido practitioners is they can't harm you because they can't fight.

[@mpforeverunlimited]

John Mason 😂😂

[@danielbrennan5872]

Tough talk for somoene hiding behind a monitor. You should test that theory sometime.

[@danielbrennan5872]

Yawn... ok see you there may 2nd 2018 2:45 am tough guy... if im a lil late just wait for me ok... ps make sure you have your laptop with you ;)... Until then ..keep up the tough talk . You may also want to go from dojo to dojo in your town challenging everyone who practices arts you dont respect so when the time comes you are good and ready. God Bless

[@danielbrennan5872]

//kzbin.info/www/bejne/jnm8eGWZp7GUmJY

[@Madkendler]

Daniel Brennan he right though. Half of aikido is make believe.

[@baldieman64]

OK, Aikido blackbelt here with over 30 years of martial arts experience... Aikido is an exploration of a very specific set of martial skills. It is NOT a complete martial art. It can improve skills for people who can already fight (which is why Ōsensei Ueshiba would only accept students with extensive martial arts experience) and it can work in a fight in some circumstances but the overwhelming majority of practitioners couldn't fight their way out of a wet paper bag and in many clubs there is nobody (including the teacher) who has ever been in a real fight. I got to the point where I would absolutely despair at people who would only ever train against a step through punch to the abdomen or a big chop to the side of the neck when that stuff is for CHILDREN! It's supposed to teach form technique, meeting and extending your partner's energy and then you are supposed to apply that to more realistic attacks and then in a controlled sparring environment. Aikido is supposed to be difficult but if you can pull it off, it looks almost like magic to untrained observers. If you've only ever done Aikido and think you can defend yourself, you are simply wrong.

[@mauropalmieri1568]

Well said.

[@bathrobebattousai84]

baldieman64 I’m a swordsman and mixed martial artist, eastern and western styles. And I couldn’t agree more.

[@bassbusterx]

In my opinion aikido is excellent if you're fighting someone inexperienced in combat and doesn't want to hurt them, a simple takedown and submission to calm them down without hurting them, like a drunk guy who is wildly swinging at you. I had a sensei that has been is streetfights and since the class was super small he would just show us the proper technique and you should do it if you don't want to get mauled to death in a streetfight

[@baldieman64]

The techniques that you think are for calming down emotional friends or dunks without hurting them are intended to be applied balistically. Nikyo and Sankyo in particular are not control techniques, they are breaking techniques - and the whole point of Sankyo is that it should almost always be applied at the point where you have got the opponent's body moving forward so you can use his own momentum to break his arm.

[@baldieman64]

Actually, it will be a spiral fracture to the radius and ulnar about two thirds of the way from elbow to wrist unless you specifically modify the technique to apply force at the wrist. Oh and I dread to think what you mean by "a committed punch". It sounds a lot like one of those silly prearranged step through punches from the hip (Chudan Tsuki) that are for training children. A "committed punch" is anything that hits you - usually a fast and instantly retracted jab cross combination.

[@E1zzzZ]

How did this go from Aikido to extraterrestrials 😂

[@darkwolverine007]

The same i ask but was fun to hear it anyways

[@mikedbconnect]

exactly! ... smoking something?

[@noxiusobvious4239]

That was an unexpected and weird flex, but okay

[@GradeAMolvanian]

Aliens clearly practice Akido

[@aquiredskill]

Aliens are more believable

[@jjonah8760]

I have been doing/living Aikido for almost 30 years, teaching for about 25. My teacher (who is still alive) was an uchideshi of O-Sensei for 10 years, and I wanted to say your video is spot on... good work. And yes, many aikidoka are too sensitive, and there are a lot of crappy mcdojo out there...

[@Supermomo2007]

aikido is a watered down version of baguazhang!!!

[@Supermomo2007]

@TheAcademy the aikido founder studied also baguazhang

[@aaronforsythe8556]

@@Supermomo2007 you are a douchebag.

[@Supermomo2007]

@@aaronforsythe8556 you are scumbag

[@Tr1s]

Thanks for saying that so true

[@sharkinahat]

Most people talking about Aikido on the internet don't know much about Aikido. That includes this comment and its author.

[@joeamason117]

He probably meant rear naked.i don't see how a guillotine is possible from someone's back unless you start to go for it from a sprawl where you would technically be on their back before adjusting to sink in the guillotine.

[@Ash-ro7gi]

Aikido the Greenpeace of the Martial Arts

[@Ash-ro7gi]

LOL you need to join Cross Fit mate and do that 5 times a week :)

[@iatsd]

It's based on several martial arts that were busy killing people up until the 1860's, and the guy who invented aikido beat everyone who challenged him. So, it's not all crap - unless, of course, your experience is superior to that?

[@Scorch1028]

Training in Aikido for the purposes of defending yourself from a 'skilled' boxer, kickboxer, wrestler, BJJ grappler, soldier, street fighter, or MMA fighter is the equivalent of training with a 'musket' to defend your home from an intruder. It 'might' get the job done, but you'd be better off using 'modern means' to defend yourself given the advanced tactics and technology that many 'perps' use today.

[@kullenberg]

"Angry White Pyjamas" by Robert Twigger is a good read, light, funny and well written, about a british man's experience of training Aikido in Japan. The book tells among other things of senior practitioners who go out and start bar fights to prove their art (spoiler: not very succesfully) because of their insecurites regarding their art's effectiveness that seems to torture them. The author is a bit taken aback of their behaviour that is seemingly violating the Aikido philosophy. In one of the concluding moments of the book, the author describes how an agressive drunk on a train in Tokyo is harassing the passengers and just as the author, full of adrenaline in his system, considers to intervene physically, another man steps in and gently asks the drunk if he's had a rough day. To the authors surprise the drunk calms down and eventually starts sobbing and begs for forgiveness as the man keeps conversing with him. The author then finally thinks to himself: "Now THAT is Aikido!"

[@M1984FA]

That book refers to Yoshinkan Kenshusei course, which is created to toughen up the riot police in Tokyo. It is not representative of mainstream Aikido... more like the opposite.

[@M1984FA]

...and actually the scenes you describe do not stem from that book, but different one from a different author (dont remember the name immediately). You might want to read books before reviewing them...

[@jackritser212]

It is a story Terry Dobson wrote about.

[@mikigalshou7806]

A friend gave me that book to read over a year ago, have not read it ye, t maybe i should start

[@FourT6and22]

@@davidbaron9355 Full contact. Actual resistance. They are training to be police officers, not for fun or as a fun exercise after work. Injuries are common.

[@gewgulkansuhckitt9086]

As an alien Mormon Aikido practitioner, I find everything in this video and in the comments section very offensive.

[@RamseyDewey]

As you should!

[@Isaac-ci5wy]

👌🏾

[@andydelgado7570]

@@RamseyDewey I am also an alien (Colombia) Mormon (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) aikido practictioner who finds this stuff not offensive, honestly i find that aikido isn't complete as any martial art, it adds a few useful moves and mindsets to the arsenal, but not enough, it's good tho, the sparring aspect is rare but does occur, yes im a normal person and wont blow up at whatever i read, but i will say, its safe to assume no martial art is complete, aikido isnt useful without a good boxing backup and some powerful BJJ, throw in some muy thai leg action and youre becoming a well rounded fighter. Ramsey Dewey i love your videos, please be a voice actor for the next epic movie or something with a narrator, i appreciate your calm demeanor, very nice to have some humor in your technical and practical videos, lightens the mood, yes rubber knives are everywhere and i dont mind, have a good one sir

[@kd5nrh]

@@andydelgado7570 The boxing shouldn't be necessary, since atemi are supposed to be there already; look up any of Morihiro Saito's videos, and notice that when he has a free hand in range, it's generally cocked for an atemi of some sort. Stunning the crap out of uke before doing the more complex stuff makes any art more effective.

[@TheBodyLanguagetv]

Including the clock?

[@1Aikiross]

As an Aikido teacher, I must say you got it quite right! Aikido is about expression and communication.

[@saketudar4148]

Then don't call it martial arts call it a dance

[@alexferrana3979]

Or a gymnastics

[@varanid9]

@@saketudar4148 It's a martial art because it's an art that derives from martial practices. By your standards, nothing would be a martial art except military gunfighting.

[@Tr1s]

Fucking love that name 🤣

[@saketudar4148]

@@Tr1s I fight in ring it's called mma

[@lobstereleven4610]

Krav maga guy: triggered by internet memes and vids. Aikido guy: hold my macha

[@krushinghead246]

What's a macha?

[@tts626]

I practiced Aikido for many years. I left mostly because of attitude conflicts. The predominant present day attitude is to "preserve" Aikido in a bottle. Questioning the effectiveness of techniques is forbidden in most circles. That's the greatest downfall of the art, of any art really. The so called "harmony" or Aiki principle, in Aikido is similar to the Taiji type principle of Lu, and also Ju in Judo, and so on. But it's taken to a spiritual level too. Morihei Ueshiba, the founder when through a different phases in his teachings. As he got older, he favored more of the philosophical and spiritual aspects of his training. Probably as we all will one day. But that lead to different students picking up on different ideas depending on when they trained with him. While there is no sense of competition in the training, this is not unique to the art, nor is it it necessarily a shortcoming. Most traditional arts do not incorporate any competition. (My personal opinion is that when most traditional arts were founded, people got into fights often enough, through challenge or through chance, so as to not require inclusion of any regular sporting events.) In Aikido, there is training with resistance if you train with high level practitioners. You're supposed to be "honest" in your attack and provide a challenge to your partner to help him grow and learn. This isn't taken to the level it ought to be, but it is there. Two things that people who observe Aikido most often mistake are 1) judging the art by the artist, most of whom have no interest in fighting; 2) judging the cooperative training without understanding why cooperation is needed, i.e. to avoid injury because most of the techniques are small joint manipulation with a lot of force. Aikido has gotten a bad rap over the years, perhaps rightly so due to how it's being taught today and the kind of people it attracts. It's really too bad. There people out there who are trying to take it to a new level though, who acknowledge the need to cross train and adapt to the modern world.

[@onceuponthecross1]

great comment bro

[@del5924]

I can relate to that situation.

[@bigbay1159]

The biggest problem is never having to perform the move with a person you don't know (like in a tournament) and them going full strength. A lot of aikido practitioners have this false sense that they can do flips and wrist manipulation but have never been in a fight or actually trained the move on someone who simply doens't care how much you want the move. The only real time you see the flashy aikido moves is in demonstrations. they do it there but never in real world scenarios or fights.

[@georgedronfield2253]

It's sort of the same as western karate

[@GattToDaChoppa]

@@bigbay1159 my Sensei always says that you'll never be able to get a perfect looking technique, it'll always look sloppy. And if it doesn't work, try something else.

[@eboyarski]

I'm an Aikido student. Sorry you had a bad experience with commentators. I think you have a good idea of where Aikido comes from, for somebody who isn't training in it.

[@danpit2001]

one thing i am 99 percent sure of about Mormons is that if there is the slightest chance that there is extra terrestrial intelligent life out there they have a plan somewhere in the back of a file cabinet on how to proselytize and send missionaries

[@jakubmike5657]

Dan Pit it is called being prepared😊

[@gewgulkansuhckitt9086]

FTL (faster than light) bicycles are currently being researched by Mormon scientists at BYU.

[@a-blivvy-yus]

Scientologists, on the other hand, have plans to say "we told you so"...

[@kd5nrh]

They're hoping to find an even more sheer white fabric to make their shirts out of, and they've already reached Earth's limit.

[@andydelgado7570]

oh trust me we do 😎thousands of white shirt name tag short hair guys and long hair girls waiting to smile their way through the galaxy! its been our plan all along, right next to serving God and being nice, abnormally friendly peeps with a lot more veggie straws than id care to admit😂

[@jpport_]

You look like a really nice guy to have some chatting about life and philosophy. Congratulations, cause this is rare these days... Ive practiced Aikido for some time and its a really good way to become a more chilled and harmonious person, but i understand that it is not applicable as a martial art anymore. Im really thinking into practicing MMA because of your videos! Thanks. Get out there and train!

[@Supermomo2007]

why you do not practice bagua kung fu, aikido is a rip off and watered down version of this style. you can then stike, grapple and you have devasasting throws and takedowns

[@varanid9]

@@Supermomo2007 Which style of Bagua? Some are very effective, most have gone the way of Tai Chi and have turned into arm waving for imaginary "chi power". How easy do you think it is to find that rare and elusive unicorn that is the combat oriented Bagua teacher?

[@jamesmadrid9478]

I have been doing aikido along with some combat sports, i use aikido as kind of a therapy and it keeps me loose and healthy. I never expect aikido to save me in a fight or a match neither do my instructor or training partners, i have also seen the bad side of the "aikido community" and Ijust want people to know we aren't all like that. However there are good things to learn from aikido, it is very good for discipline and learning some very basic skills that are useful to know in combat sports. I'm not trying to start a shit storm so yeah.

[@no_special_person]

Can I get you to read me bed time stories, I just really like your voice

[@RamseyDewey]

Hahahaha! Awesome... funny you should say that, because I'm actually working on developing a new channel where I narrate children's stories. Since I have small children, I read A LOT of bedtime stories. I'll keep you posted!

[@SprayNpreyT]

ASMR Ramsey Dewey coming up!

[@PandarenMaster]

i actually play some of his videos and set 15 mins timer for the computer to shut down before going to bed lol

[@Ash-ro7gi]

I thought a very good actors voice, Shakespearean.

[@vOddy75]

Martial ASMRts

[@VodKaVK]

Starts with "what do I think of Aikido", ends with "are we alone in the universe"?

[@rikunevalainen8154]

This is what happens when you start even thinking of "aiki". You start with the arm locks and end into UFO section :) I followed the Ueshiba´s path many years in my youth, and as much as we discussed about the training itself, we talked a lot of "universal" issues, like "the force"....and so on. 99% of this was rubbish, but we had a nice time. I had about 30 years pause in my training, got into BJJ class in this year. How do I manage ? Well, my ukemi skills are better than many bjj guys have been able to get in ten years...sometimes I manage to do some aiki stuff by mistake, but then the teacher says "you are not allowed to lock wrist as white belt." Then I apologize. Many things from aikido work in BJJ, but since we beginners do not do standing fights, I have to roll like any rookie few years until we move on to more traditional fight stance. Any fighting system helps in some level, specially judo-bjj-aikido mixed training can work well together,. What about the peace-love-and-harmony ? Strangely, I have felt more comfortable as human beging now in the BJJ class than ever in aikido. Behind the scenes, in the aikido community there was a lot of ego issues, self-made-occult-philosophers and so on. Strangely enough, only sensei from any art I know, that has been in real life lethal fight, has been one aikido 6th dan. Facing alone several bandits with knifes. He won, but some of the attackers died. That is what I was told, I can not confirm this, sorry. So, yes aiki-stuff works, but not in the way you would want.

[@douwehuysmans5959]

@@rikunevalainen8154 Aikido is great for protecting against aliens

[@melregalario5887]

Good Lord, I trained in aikido as a requirement for my dojang and my sensei kept telling me that it's not for combat, it's for defence, strictly. The only time we had to use an utemi was for making a diversion. Beyond that, you're stepping into aikijujutsu territory, which is the combative parent of aikido. And after years of study, I've come to realise that aikido is to martial arts as a pickpocket is to a wallet. Some might think it a weakness, but I think aikido's practice and philosophy of harmony and restraint is what makes it hard, coz you can easily go the other direction and supplement strikes while doing ikkyo or sankyo or just fuck it all and break the dudes wrist. But that isn't what aikido is about, so aikikais please, getting trolled into an internet fight about proving aikido as an effective and relevant martial art defeats the whole purpose of aikido.

[@pas8124]

Practiced aikido as a kid cause my mom wanted me to lern how to fall and it was a good gym had a good teacher and was a humbling experience but few weeks into boxing will make you better in streetfight situations

[@aljoschalong625]

Ah, another good point. I think Judo or Aikido should be taught in primary school: because of the falling. That saved my life a few times (completely unrelated to fighting).

[@danieletrotta5452]

@@aljoschalong625 judo is very good in a fighting situation for the throws , its not bad as japanese jujitsu or much worse aikido

[@aljoschalong625]

@James Stewart Illegal in most civilized countries, where they don't have a mass-shooting literally every day. www.cbsnews.com/news/mass-shootings-2019-more-than-days-365/

[@daluven]

James Stewart not everyone lives in the us dipshit

[@Divinemakyr]

@@aljoschalong625 It's only natural that the United States would have a shooting rate every day; not that their shootings per capita isn't high, just that they have the 3rd highest population of any country.

[@tracy449]

Funny. I’m a Mormon living down in Peru. Just starting to train in Jiu Jitsu. And I was thinking last night maybe in 2 years I would like to go live in China to learn their language and culture. Then I found your channel today. Maybe in a few years after I’m done learning Spanish and the Latin culture I’ll swing by your gym and check it out. Cheers.

[@craigtribolet7266]

Ramsey I have said previously how cool your posts are. i am a long time Aikido black belt and you as before, are correct. Aikido is not a fighting art. You are true gentleman in your treatment of the art

[@robhinton7699]

Can you say more about Aikido not being a fighting art?

[@captmisha]

I also, from Kokashenkai, Shotakan to aikido in my now twilight years, the depiction Ramsey gives is warm and correct. I enjoy the art, the relaxation and the philosophy behind Aikido, as I take too long to heal, now days, from "competitive" MA. LOL excuse my spelling, getting old.........

[@RandAlthor939]

Bullshit If you are practicing a martial art it must be martial why else practice ? AIKIDO has lost its functional application I know this as I practiced aikido for 23 years . It's technique is fine as long as the practice is real .which 99% of aikido dojo aren't. AIKIDO has become a stylised combat ballet. It doesn't have to be . I now concentrate on 6 universal techniques with all there hundreds of variations . It is still aikido. We no longer concentrate on fine motor skills but gross motor skills. 11 years as a prison officer 2 riots 6 life threatening one on one encounters . Hundreds of none life threatening restraints . Dozens of mass brawls . Taught me AIKIDO movement is excellent. Strikes are a must , grappling skills ( stand up ) And getting off the floor must be practiced . Full resistance ,non prearranged attacks , a little bit of boxing , and loads of weapons taking and retention . Can all make AIKIDO functional again. Black belts who have come to the realisation what they have been taught doesn't work . And then just accept that and say " hey I'm happy to play at this and dance around " Are not black belts . AIKIDO sensei like you are the reason most AIKIDO is bullshit. Just take a time and watch that Rokas moron on AIKIDO journey. Gets his add kicked by a pro instead of evolving he gives up on his system? Check out Bruno orozco Lenny sly Or watch some MMA if you are an AIKIDO black belt . Count off all the dozens of aikido technique used in the ufc. Why does it work for them ( even though they don't even know it's aikido) Because they practice in a functional way with a functional delivery system. Please don't call your self a black belt . Please join the line with the thousands of other AIKIDO dance instructors.

[@barryweaver8833]

Aikido works best when your opponent does exactly what you need him too....

[@RamseyDewey]

Most fighting techniques work like that (some more than others!)

[@barryweaver8833]

I was wondering the same thing in my Krav class as well, although I think some of the moves would be great in a lot of street situations, there are some that just seem so choreographed that I try to imagine how they would work on the street? Like if my attacker was cool under pressure and smooth with a lot of "follow through" (like in sparring) then well yeah sure......... but what if it's just cazy & chaotic at a million mph like when the $#!t hit's the fan as they say.....I asked all of my instructors the same thing and all say it's easier when it's like that, hmmmm. Anyway I think you are in top physical condition and thanks for the heart!!

[@matteoste8426]

Some works also in the Street the consequence is prob you would broke some Arms instead of being followed. Still most of them are too much situational

[@florinmoldovanu]

I've only been practicing Aikido for 1 year. At the surface level it looks as though it's about the moves however below that it's about the principles. Aikido even for the founder has been work in progress therefore people that are diehard fanatics are a bit full of ego. In the later stages of his life O sensei removed the more dangerous techniques and shaped Aikido into more of a blend between martial arts and spiritual practice therefore comparing Aikido with other self-defence martial arts in inappropriate. Nothing wrong with practicing only Aikido just don't get over yourself about it. It's good exercises that trains you on balance, mobility, grips gives you a good massage and the chances are very slim that you're going to get some bruises or accident yourself during a training unless you really push yourself too hard. Most practitioners are gentle with the beginners mainly due to the fact that fine tuning your awareness of the opponent is so key to the practice. So Aikido doesn't teach you how to win a fight but how to neutralise it and knowing and applying aikido principles in real life shouldn't get you into a fight anyway. This way you win before you even start a fight.

[@josephmeador1529]

The trick is mental … you have to believe in your technique and follow through 100% … in Karate, the first thing we learned was how to breathe and how to empty the mind and just let it flow. I could tell a thousand stories but this one is one that makes the point the most distinctly - I practiced JKD sticky hand techniques for years because honestly, I found it extremely fun. I did it so much that it was natural. One day, I had to seriously defend myself with traditional sticky hands and it worked for one reason … I was sitting in a chair behind a pool table while a guy came at me with a flurry of punches and had no other recourse - it was sticky hands or nothing … I let all thought go and surrendered to the movement ... it worked beautifully (to my own astonishment) and it must have looked like some Matrix style magic to the people who witnessed it. I managed to gain control of my opponents punches, then when he was off balance, I swept his body sideways Aikido style, then punched him in the hip with a Shotokan reverse punch so hard he slammed into the pool table and fell to the ground - while I was sitting in a chair.

[@no-trick-pony]

Ramsey, you might want to check out another KZbinr, AikidoSiauliai - he was/is an Aikido practitioner for about 13 years (and did a lot of Aikido videos, explaining techniques and giving hints) until he got curious and did some light sparring with an MMA guy where he realized that Aikido as he was taught and he taught others is not applicable to real situations. He got A TON of hateful comments of Aikido practitioners but nevertheless then started to look into other styles (BJJ, Boxing, etc), did many interviews and a lot of knowledge exchange with MMA practiticioners, self defense professionals (real ones) all over the word, to look for ways to improve Aikido. I don't want to spoiler too much how his journey went on, but it's a really interesting one. He is a really thoughtful young guy.

[@Freejason33]

I’ve seen a Ramsey comment on Rokas’ channel.

[@RandAlthor939]

no-trick-pony_lockpicking This guy who you are talking about did a very dance like aikido. There are aikido practitioners and clubs who understand and practice. The importance of pressure testing / sparring . Practice and understand that gross motor skills are mostly what remain in combat ... aikido practiced properly does not have people running at each other . Practice real strikes elbows ,knees ,headbutts, kicks and punches... Gozo shioda an aikido shihan stated aikido is 95% striking. People like the guy on the channel you are speaking of misunderstood that everything they do is nothing more than exercises in movement. They become masters of nothing .. aikido is as good as the attacks it is used against .. 12 years a prison officer 23 years aikido 14 years jujitsu 12 years boxing .. It is the aikido movement and strategy along that has kept me safe most .. Lots of aikido people get confused and try wrist locks and controls on an on balance opponent. . Striking and balance disturbance makes them all possible. .

[@RamseyDewey]

Yeah, I’ve seen his videos

[@dragutinvukelic8891]

Ramsey Dewey just check out Roy Dean. He's an Aikido and BJJ practitioner. There's a great interview with him and Stephan Kesting on Aikido. I studied Aikido for eight years along with BJJ and Escrima. Eleven years of experience so far. It's not about the art it's about the fighter. And Aikido is not combative. But it takes just a little dirt to make it practical. Most Aikido practitioners are not willing to get their hands dirty and test their skill. That's the major problem with Aikido practitioners not the art itself.

[@PhilipZeplinDK]

Appropriate link to his latest video vs an MMA fighter: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nWSsqKuIZ6alY6s

[@bobsterbarrow]

Ramsey Dewey is a level headed chap and his comments reflect a level-headed perspective. Aikido has a lot in common with the likes of Kendo... practitioners are in it for the cultural connections and historical links to imperial japan, not for the all out fighting found in Krav and MMA. Each to their own there is nothing wrong with practicing something you enjoy so chill people.

[@mikebeernink1304]

It is all about the practitioner. If someone trains hard in any martial art, they can learn strong self defense, period. All systems are good or they wouldn't stand the test of time. It really is up to the individual practicing.

[@bigbay1159]

@@mikebeernink1304 What are you talking about? We do not have Aikido world champions for a reason, Militaries aren't learning aikido for very good reasons. Those things require skills that ACTUALLY work. Instead of Aikido we learn Judo in the Marines because if you need to learn how to hip throw someone, Judo actually teaches it. If people want Tai chi and aikido for personal growth that is fine, but thinking you can fight from it is just delusional. There was a Aikido black belt who tried using it in a low level sparring practice and got destroyed, he then went on to learn MMA and had a amateur level fight in MMA and did pretty amazing by comparison. But that didn't happen until after leaving aikido.

[@sirlew1951]

I love this channel. The most honest and sincere guy on youtube.

[@PhantomSavage]

I myself am no martial artist, so I probably don't have much authority on the matter, but I do feel like many, many people who get into martial arts tend to be driven by competitive spirit that focuses on the combative aspects of martial arts alone and not the philosophical meaning behind it. Classic Martial Arts (generally) is a spiritual outlet, a number of systems and techniques that encourages connection with the world around you and deep self introspection, being at one with yourself and your feelings through expression of body movement and exercise. People watch Jackie Chan or Bruce Lee kick some serious ass in the movies and want to learn how to do it themselves, yet completely disregard the philosophies and meanings behind the arts they want to learn, just so they can prove they are more powerful with it. That's basically what the underlying tone of the Karate Kid movies was about. People see a Kung Fu movie and then try to become Jason Bourne. Jason Bourne isn't a marital artist. Jason Bourne is a trained killer. Jason Bourne will blow you away with a shotgun, and the second he runs out of bullets he doesn't care if its a knife or a table lamp, he's going to hit you with it until you're either dead, he can create an opening to escape, or until he can get a better weapon and kill you even quicker. That's not what Marial Arts is about, that's what being a soldier is about, and a soldier has no place in a dojo full of people looking for spiritual connection and harmony through movement. If you want to learn how to fight to defend yourself, learn some boxing.. if you want to be a human weapon, then be a soldier.. But don't take something like Aikido or Tai Chi, and blatantly disregard its entire philosophy so you start the ol' "My kung fu is better than your kung fu" shenanigans. Just seems disrespectful of its original intent, in my opinion. Its kind of the equivalent of cutting off someone's head on camera to prove that Buddhism is the one true religion... it just doesn't jive well.

[@Vidar-26]

Sorry for the late reply man, but that’s a great explanation! 😁

[@johnmorgan692]

😁love ya RAMSEY brother " .. 1st cor 15v1. 4! .. IF" you believe that" IN YOUR HEART"? .. its HEAVEN for ya" .. hope EVERY ONE here Is BLESSED! ROMANS 15V13 ".

[@MVahag]

Yeah but imagine if someone presented himself as a basketball coach, gathered hundreds of trainees. And then when it was exposed they aren't any better at playing basketball after years of training, he said "You got it wrong, all I was teaching was philosophy through imitation of basketball. We had fun while we were at it. It was all about connection and spirituality."

[@DBLCreations]

I have been doing AIKIDO for 2 years, i did like practicing it but it came to a stop when i got diagnosed with leukemia. Now i have Graft Verus Host Disease and i'm in a wheelchair, so i can't practice any fight sport anymore. I did like it, i think it was a very good self defense, but i was on the lookout for a combination, like for example, AIKIDO and kickboks, i indeed liked AIKIDO because it was NON competitive, but i also made a lot of friends there, it was a great experience. When i was younger i also did a couple of weeks of Judo which was pretty fun too to be honest :-) I don't really care what others think about the sport i like doing. If you do care about that, then i'm not sure why you're doing what you do. The most important thing is that you do it for yourself, not to impress someone or whatever the case may be. I always believe that one or more practices are good, i don't believe in one being the best.

[@M1984FA]

Totally agree. I practise Aikido myself, but the outlandish claims made by some Aikido fanatics are embarrassing. It is a nice, safe exercise with a lot of benefits. Isnt that good enough? Why not leave well enough alone.

[@bathrobebattousai84]

Yo Inter I won’t leave well enough alone. I’m a swordsman and mixed martial artist. Aikido works great when added to an mma/kenjutsu/HEMA training regimen.

[@unacceptablesisterpeter3431]

Yes! I just started aikido a few months ago and though I think it could help me (once I get good at it) if I end up in a bind I would never win fight with it. but it is not meant for winning fights but avoiding them. That is why I chose it.

[@M1984FA]

Dont know what you mean by "works great". Yes, Aikido principles are very similar to BJJ principles (blending, go with the flow, stirring the beans and all that). But expecting a typical AIkido routine to work while rolling with a resisting opponent? I call BS on that. And yes, I do BJJ besides Aikido, so I am not just speaking as a keyboard warrior.

[@williamross77]

Yo Inter I totally agree. ...and it helped me in army combatives and such things

[@brahimbouazza7734]

Did you practice aikikai?

[@BeamMonsterZeus]

Having grown up in Arizona, I have to say... you're the most Down-To-Earth Morman I've ever heard. You exercise logic internally rather than project the doctrine outwardly, and it shows in your methods of teaching. Very awesome playlist to sit through, as your perspective is humbling and sincere. Even when you're being sarcastic, your point comes across loud and clear.

[@danielsherwood3460]

My experience with Mormons is they are some of the warmest, kindest people I've met.

[@danielsherwood3460]

@INTOtheVOID11 , I can only speak about my experience with the people I've met. I can't speak to the org.

[@Divinemakyr]

@INTOtheVOID11 Yeah. Generalization mentality is always retarded and never works. But I tell you, some of the Mormons I know... my dad was helping install floors on a house on some island that a billionaire bought, and Mormons were helping alongside the normal construction team, and from what I hear the Mormons were dicks to everyone who wasn't one of them.

[@knotsandcrosses1]

The most telling thing: I trained in Aikido as a kid, and they used to have these "sparring sessions" where other kids would try and push you down, and you were meant to defend yourself using Aikido. Mostly it was just pushing them away, but one guy got very aggressive (pushed hard) so I elbowed him and knocked him down. He bursts into tears (again, we were kids), and the "sensei" gets up and yells "You're not supposed to attack like that!" at me. Moral of the story: when you're in a fight, wait for onlookers to tell those fighting that they're attacking in the wrong way, and they will stop and apologize... right?

[@zxc1972]

I was lucky enough to study Aikido in the Hombu Dojo in the early 90s. Years later I spent about 18 months working as a door supervisor (bouncer). Aikido was the martial art I used most in that time. Reasons - I was also trained in karate, muay thai, and boxing. Being that confident in striking, movement and range, meant I could deal with drunks, coke heads and other morons with aikido, without getting myself into trouble with the law for turning someone's face into ground meat, or snapping a bone. Morihei Ueshiba, the founder, was also experienced in a number of different martial arts, and doubtless had the confidence that such experience begets. To be honest, it has it uses. But I doubt someone who has only trained in aikido could deal with a competent aggressor. That said, the practice of aikido is a beautiful thing for the soul. Also, originally, aikido was taught in a way that pretty much every move against the aggressor started with ... a single knuckle strike to the face or throat. To assist with compliance!

[@todds.6451]

zxc1972 Just wanted to say I really like the insight and balance in this post of yours. There's a lot of helpful content in such a short amount of text!

[@zxc1972]

@@todds.6451 Thanks! Given how toxic online life can be it's really pleasant to hear something positive for a change!

[@johnnyappleseed6665]

zxc1972 He's lying to you

[@johnnyappleseed6665]

No aikido masters used single knuckle strikes

[@adamdamiri4823]

@@johnnyappleseed6665 how do you know?

[@GoatZilla]

I think people get confused by the admittedly stylized and ritualized practice. The thing is when you practice anything, you generally constrain the situation so you can actually practice the thing you are drilling, and not constantly go down the rabbit hole of "oh yea, that's not realistic because XYZ". Yes, we know, we're just practicing this one thing to get it right. Of course this can be taken too far and ritualized. Just with ju jitsu, it shouldn't be taught or taken as a bag of dirty tricks, but something with a broader strategy. I mean someone could look at skipping rope and say, "That's stupid, nobody skips rope during a fight!" True, but your footwork and hand-eye coordination are atrocious and we gotta do something about that, so go skip some rope.

[@ronin1648]

I was like you, I justified kung fu exactly with those arguments. Eventually I woke up, hopefully one day you will too :)

[@GoatZilla]

Please make your point. If the argument is wrong, then just say directly how it is wrong.

[@ronin1648]

We used to practice the techniques with the collaboration of the opponents "to get it right", we rationalized that if the opponent resisted it would devolve into a fight and defeat the objective of the training. The consequence is that we ended up training a lot of fanciful bs stuff that would never work, and most of those that were not wrong per se were nevertheless overly complicated. The only way to test your skills, even if you are a pacifist and never want to fight in real life, is through friendly sparring, preferentially with people of other martial backgrounds.

[@GoatZilla]

Yeah, you do kind of sound like a kung fu practitioner. If you ritualized what you were doing (that is, drilling and getting reps in, which you do in *any* martial art), that's your fault. It has nothing to do with the legitimacy of a technique. That's like looking at armbar practice when you're just getting reps in and saying, "Well, because you practice with a compliant partner, the technique is junk." No dude, we're just getting reps in. Or shrimping across a mat. "Hurr durr there's nobody resisting you at all!" Eventually everyone does need to make the determination of what techniques, and what combination of techniques, works best for them. Sparring helps with that. But you're not the first person ever to ever spar and discern some bunk techniques, and EVERY GYM EVER has you drill with a technique before sparring with it.

@@ronin1648 With that kind of reasoning, using a punching bag or a speed bag is a complete waste of time for a boxer. No opponent is ever going to just hang upside down for you to punch in the head or stand still and let you get the punches in. And still, these extremely compliant tools are used a lot. To never train against a resisting opponent is bad since it will not prepare you for a real fight, but only training against fully resisting opponents will never let you learn the technique in the first place.

[@stcredzero]

This is what my Aikido Sensei said about this. The martial arts lineage of Aikido came from battlefield techniques. They came from a context where people were probably frightened and full of adrenaline and very intent to engage, to take their enemy down first to save their own lives. Those techniques aren't going to work so well in some kind of a match with someone hanging back, probing for an opening. Sensei also spent an entire session once just with demonstrating how all of the techniques could go wrong in a real fight against someone experienced, someone who had studied counters, or someone just coming at you bezerk. Lots of things can go wrong! I used to say about that day, only half joking, that it made me want to buy a gun -- too many things can go wrong with hand to hand techniques. Later, I learned that the same was true even with firearms. There are no guarantees.

[@Lucifer7681]

Reason why we laugh at aikido is: Steven Segal training Anderson Silva myth 😂

[@jpsholland]

WE?, YOU! dont try to speak for others, speak out for yourself.

[@jonmacist]

Not a myth video footage proof

[@torosdepamplona]

Isn’t there a video of the two?

[@jzelos]

Definitely a video of them both. However I don’t thing Silva was trained at anything from seagull.

[@b00tt3r_5]

Wtf are you talking about lmao, the video is on youtube (He never used aikido tho, lol)

[@mrsparkle9048]

I appreciated this video. When I was younger I was infatuated with Aikido and read the books about it, studied the philosophy, and took some classes. It's a beautiful martial art. It is not a combat art. I wish practitioners would stop insisting it is. There are aspects of Aikido that are *very* relevant to fighting. Aikido pays attention to footwork and the angles you present to an opponent, for example. And wrist locks are undoubtedly powerful weapons if you find yourself in the position to apply one, and Aikido basically trains all the possible variations of that lock to exhaustion. But it's not built for combat with another person. The striking defense is laughable. There's no ground game to speak of. If you ended up in a cage with someone who'd only trained in Aikido, you should consider yourself a blessed individual. That's not to say it's useless. For some police or security forces, training in Aikido *in addition* to striking and grappling arts can be a boon. It's useful when that drunk or untrained guy decides to grab your collar or wrist the knowledge/muscle memory to instantly lock that joint and force someone to comply. Wrist locks are legal in BJJ and typically very underused, so I think some cross training could be beneficial. But I totally agree with your summation in the video, it's a non-combat martial art with a beautiful philosophy that's ironically ignored by some of its biggest defenders.

[@AstrotominChina]

Excellent analysis of the core principles of Aikido...well done...bit of solidarity from an Aikido black belt...about 20 years of practice...unfortunately, there's a lot of people who seem to be still a bit behind on their path to understanding modern martial arts...today... ...great answer...great channel...nothing but respect and admiration ...thanks!

[@janis2280]

I checked wiki en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aikido because I forgot translation. And indeed it translates as: "the way of harmonious spirit"

[@AstrotominChina]

Oh absolutely...it is an art based on the concept of neutralizing conflicts via the means of non aggressive responses...it is highly principled and, as you may imagine, highly unrealistic in an actual combat scenario...at the same time, it can be very martial, depending on the school and the instructor you train with...but... I believe that if an Aikido practitioner doesn't understand the difference between combat/sports/self-defense/art...we may have a bit of a problem there...I grow up doing Karate as a teenager, trained kumite for competitions...found myself in a real fight...didn't go well for me...I was trained to hit the target and go...and that's when I realized that I lacked understanding of using my Karate in a real combat scenario...so... happy training 😁

[@bathrobebattousai84]

Aikido is one of many styles I train in. My understanding of martial arts is this, I’m bringing a wide range of tools with me in a fight. And I’m walking away from it.... when it’s over that is.

[@itzbebop]

this man could read a food menu and make it sound utterly amazing. that voice is amazing lol

[@pascal0868]

Agree, Ueshiba sensei came to realise that the mind and body are intimately connected. Aikido is his gift to humanity. It is or was a project. As you generously stated he used his past martial training as a vehicle. I use Tai chi. What people won’t admit is he in his youth trained in a fighting system. In his older age he sought the Yin to the Yang. Aikido was not meant to be an evolution of a FIGHTING system but an expression of his evolution as a human being. If you want to fight learn to fight. Aikido is not for you. When you are done and at peace return to Aikido. The warrior returns home. That is Aikido.

[@RandAlthor939]

Pascal 0 Total rubbish aikido is jujitsu and should be practiced like it is.

[@sugarnads]

Yeah bs it was developed from an art involving dealing with assailants on a battlefield charging you.

[@pascal0868]

Dellacondan :100% agree the old jujitsu arts were meant for battle field of ancient japan. Stick to that if you want to preserve legacy. BJJ and Judo are better grappling arts for today. And yes, they can kill, if you fantasize about such things. BJJ is derived from Judo in turn derived from Jujitsu. So is Aikido. You have to turn to the founding fathers, Kano and Ueshiba. They were jujitsu experts. They sought a different worldview away from fighting using the only vehicle they knew. They were not looking to evolve techniques to kill in more effective way. They wanted to create better human beings. Aikido and Judo from founders perspective was meant to make you a better person using tools from the past. Preservation of life. The problem is Aikidoists selling their art as a one stop solution, James Bond by day Zen monk by night. Doesn’t work. MMA is what you want if you need Modern fighting skill. Let the samurai ethos die.

[@nubianpwr]

Pascal - what an insightful comment. When you look deep into the art of "self-defense" (not fighting) you can see the significance of Budos like Aikido, Tai Chi, etc. They're intended to evolve us... not put us in a cage or street fight. peaceful

[@oscarsaris3183]

You sound like a virgin who's never been in a fight or even a sparring session.

[@leoprzytuac3660]

Man, every time you speak i like you better... i clicked this video expecting to see the tipical "aikido is bulshit, it doesn't work for fight, is fake, etc."... And then i happen to find a really objective point of view, that summarizes perfectly what aikido is in a respectful way... You're a breath of fresh air for the martial arts community

[@simonmorris4226]

Depends on the aikido school and it’s training methods. In the school that I helped to run we also trained in striking and had sparring sessions as well. A lot of us had a background in boxing, karate and ju Jutsu as well.

[@mharm734]

I tried taking aikido back when I was my 20's in college. They had told us we could bow out to get a drink of water because they didn't have air conditioning any time we wanted. While I was doing the unbendable arm exercise I twisted my ankle really badly and decided to bow out and assess what shape my ankle was in and whether I needed to visit the hospital. As a white belt I told the brown belt what I was doing hopped out bowed and got a sip from the drinking fountain and then decided I needed to end practice for the day and I'd talk to sensei when I got back in. When I got back to class the instructor lined everyone up ranting about how someone dishonored the class by not telling him about their injury immediately. He paced back and forth ranting and waving his arms blathering about how in Japan it would require a duel to the death commuting such an act. I thought about mentioning I told the higher rank what I was doing but decided since I probably wasn't coming back it wasn't worth bothering. Even though I went to class on a bicylce and several of them saw me riding in every day none of them offered first aid, asked if I was ok or offered lift to the hospital for medical treatment or home etc or even to let me use a phone to call someone to get me (this was pre cell phones). I ended up riding my bicycle uphill back to my place one legged a couple miles with a busted foot and decided to end my aikido experiment. This experience has made me feel pretty negative about aikido and aikido people for the most part. A lot of what they did didn't seem realistic and watching the higher ranks throwing themselves when black belts twitched their shoulders looked like more like a pavlovian response than a demonstration of skill. That being said I have on occasion used some of the throws they taught me as well as joint locks in self defense situations successfully, and learning how to fall from the class did prevent me from getting badly injured a number of times so it wasn't a complete waste of time.

[@anthonyakana4518]

mharm734 if one gets hurt then the master should use first aid . The setting of bones and ease of muscles after training is required .

[@mharm734]

The ankle swelled up pretty huge and I wasn't able to walk on it for a couple days but I recovered ok eventually.

[@experiment54]

agree with the teacher you should have told him right away you were injured. disagree with him ranting. he should have explained the reasons why he must know, insurance etc is most likely the main one western teachers would panic ;-) they dont like to talk about it but the license you buy is not a license to martial art like many tell you, its a frickin insurance document/policy usually just student to student liability, and injury in the school reflects on the teacher etc maybe thats the real reason he hit the roof.

[@bertilow]

How did you manage to hurt your ankle doing the unbendable arm exercise?

[@mharm734]

Bertilo Wennergren my arm didn't bend but I got pushed back and landed bad on the ankle twisting it. I found the unbendable arm concept useful in fencing for resisting attacks on the blade. At that point in my life it was hard for me to admit I wouldn't be able to push through an injury which is why I hesitated telling the sensei right away. I know the reality better at 47 that sometimes never quit is a horrible plan than I did at 21.

[@Oatmate]

When i subscribed a couple of weeks ago you had around 1k subscribers, now you have over 8k. Nice.

[@RamseyDewey]

I don't know what happened man. I've been doing youtube videos since the website began, and for the last 11 years it was the same 1000 subscribers, and just recently a bunch of people started tuning in.

[@ripintandon]

That's a news for me. I subscribed when it was 700 or 800 subscriber. But yes.... I am not surprised. The content is really good.

[@no-trick-pony]

KZbin decided to recommend your channel to me only a few weeks ago. If I remember correctly, it was that women's self defense stuff (which I really enjoyed). Maybe also what reeled in other subscribers too (your KZbin statistics probably will tell you more ^^)

[@littleratblue]

It recommended you to me, recently, as well. I'm not sure why, maybe someone cross-watches scholagladiatoria and you, and the algorithm decided to recommend the pairing to other scholagladiatoria viewers? I would say, though, you should try looking up schola and do a crossover, if you're looking for more viewers. If you did a series on the history of kata in different martial arts,their histories, and how those moves are actually supposed to be used in a real fight, I think you would get a lot of those viewers.

[@InlineDownhillVancouver]

no-trick-pony_lockpicking Yes, indeed, KZbin recommended videos.

[@PaulArchety]

Nice words. Looks like you've understood aikido more than a great percentage of it's practitioners. This comment is coming from a Aikido practictioner.

[@pgl79]

Paul Archety I was going to write the exact same thing!

[@LightningStriker1]

I'm really just addicted to your alternative low key Optimus prime voice no homo

[@alaricsanford4301]

I've actually used a bunch of Aikido joint locks and throws in my profession as a Security Professional, with Tae Kwon Do and these two skills alone have saved my life. Not complaining about the Vid, just sharing.

[@mat34105]

oh damn, you´re halfway into hapkido, nice.

[@murath5550]

AIkido is good for security and police. BJJ is excellent also. Aikido is not for the ring, yes. O 'Sensei claims to have had a 'spiritual enlightenment' which basically lied to him. Please look into it. Idolatry is a wasted life. Poor Bruce Lee went to his grave early and is now lost in eternity. He died in pursuit of wealth to prove the west that he could make it. As brilliant as he was and adored he was as equally lost.

[@murath5550]

Blubbering? Quite rude. Do some research or is reading thinking and learning beyond you? Bruce Lee had a tragic ending without Christ. The fonder of Aikido also went to eternity without a saviour. What is your objection please?

[@murath5550]

@The Courier You are entitled to your freedom of expression and faith or lack of faith. My point still remains. If you listen to Morihei Usheba o Sensei he pushed/bashed his 'universe energy' religion. So he is a Eastern religion/mystic. He also felt a strange presence, talked to spirits and worship idols. So even if I was not a Christian and was a pure atheist that is very odd to me. Also O Sensei was teaching magic energy manipulation techniques to his followers - do you think he was doing his students any favors preparing them for actual combat? I think not. Feel free to check out what I am saying or not.

[@murath5550]

​@@maxzhao8331 kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y5uZfZ57gZWNeqs

[@elvisjimpa100]

Great talk about Aikido.There are 3 martial arts that really inspire me and thats aikido with the momentum of using the opponents energy against them,tae kwon do with there fast and powerful kicks and wing chun with there fast and intercepting punches.

[@maximusatlas9377]

You know I rarely comment about what I think about a martial arts, because I am not a master or a trainer so I have no right arguing to someone who knows facts about things I never even tried to debunk or even tried to understand. I had practiced 4 years of kick boxing until I moved to Puerto Rico for job offers. Then I decided to take aikido in a small center near my work place for a year.(which isnt much time but I didnt have alot spare time to go to the dojo. This was like 3 years ago) I went mainly for my love of tradional martials arts and because aikido looked quite interesting and since I was a striker, I wanted to know locks and basic throws, outside my very limited wrestling drills in spraws and leg takedowns . My sensei was always very honest about aikido. He used to say that aikido is mainly for improvement of the mind and body and he even admited that aikido has some techniques that just dont work in fight unless you take the time to find a way to make them work or just overall increase the rate of success or even cross train. Most aikido "senseis" dont like to hear this because they think its an insult to aikido and the traditional side of things. But no, because you can still teach the tradional side and I would even say you MUST teach the traditional side for a while so that students understand what Aikido is and let them choose what it is about aikido that they want. To me Aikido is what Tai chi is to some people in china. And I use that example because 7 months ago, Puerto Rico went through Hurracaine Maria which preaty much left thounds including me with a broken down house, a destroyed car, 6 months with no electroc power, very limited food, and no proper comunication to the outside world. It made it extremly hard to finish my trimester in college, or even get to work, etc. Aikido and kick boxing became my peace treatment. Using them as cardio exercise and mental training. Slowly I recovered in life and I think aikido or any other martal art is great for human improvement and even a good disctraction for problems. I was planing to get back into aikido but the dojo I went was destroyed but luckly I am now taking kendo on weekends and as much as it may seem that I want to overwelm myself in my free time, I actually want to take Japanese Jiu Jitsu in a place I found a few months ago. But this is because I love Japanese martial arts and also because I know I have grown more as a person. Taking into consideration I met my wife in aikido which is a bonus part for me.

[@RandAlthor939]

Chris RedDrake Your sensei in aikido is completely correct . The aikido most clubs practice is the aikido of an old man . Who through hard training had found a way of peace . To find the aikido of the younger guy who travelled Japan taking on all comers .. means serious pressure testing of the techniques. You cannot find this interesting aikido. . Nearly everyone is hardwired into just falling over and running at each other arms extended. The only way to pressure test it is to cross train or train without style or movement limitations. . Then you start to discover what works and how it works . The most important thing is have discovered is all aikido techniques are an exercise in movement. A bit like tai chi. .. the truth in aikido is it is not techniques it is a principal of movement. That can be applied to any style .. the techniques are found in many systems .. it's the movement that is unique. . The aikido of the younger guy is a hard jujitsu primarily focused on sword and multiple opponents. . I.e quick encounter time with each opponent just a second or two. Constant movement (circular) . Rapid changing of heights . Gedan, chudan, Jodan. It as he got older became more dance like with long unrealistic drawn out contact with each person .. highly complicated techniques. . That without a compliant partner would be impossible. . The connection of movement became more important than the reason behind it . Like with any TMA dig a little deeper and you will find its original purpose. I love watching MMA for this purpose. . Every technique taken from TMA. . You see applied aikido throws, footwork ,striking.avoidance ,blending, arm bars, chokes , Most times the fighters don't even know .. It's there because if it works all systems become the same. There are only so many ways a human body can move .watch any good combative or self defence video. . From any style and the form and function are the same ..

[@lancejackson9108]

great response; it's not about fighting, or even about defence. it's about doing something we love at a dojo nearby, with people we like hanging out with. it's a distraction from life's problems, and a way to get some exercise. if people want to fight then they should train to fight; if people want defence they should carry a knife or a gun.

[@chrisd3712]

No matter what martial arts you train, I think it's wrong to go out and pick fights on the streets. You train in dojo and fighting in arenas. In the streets it is for self-defense. That's my opinion

[@seldomsane5278]

After watching some of your vids, I find it refreshing to find someone who doesn't simply trash traditional martial arts, but respects their many forms for what they are and the history they represent.

[@chrishoulihan7601]

You sound like Dwayne Johnson and I keep expecting you to say "Can you smeeeeeell what Ramsey Dewey is cooookin'?!"

[@invertedreality4473]

Thank you Ramsey, your explanations are practical, realistic, and honest. I'm an inexperienced martial artist (i.e. I suck at it), so I really can't speak to your detractors. I simply love your videos. Keep up the great work.

[@fileboy2002]

A good rule of thumb: if you ever have to ask yourself if what you are learning would work in real life, the answer is probably no. Boxers don't ask that question. Wrestlers don't that question. Judo and jiu jitsu players don't ask that question. They don't ask because they KNOW. They know, because they practice against actively resisting opponents. Any martial art that isn't built around that is of limited value.

[@ryanhill5676]

Dennis Fritz I do jiu jitsu, I am pretty good at it, yet I still question. That's why I joined an mma gym as well. Searching for the truth...

[@ryanhurt2813]

In brazilian jiu-jitsu classes, I am asking myself that question about every single move. Will this move work? What kind of situations does it work in? Most importantly, even if it worked for someone else, will it work for me? I don't think asking the question is a red flag. The problems come up when you never make progress toward finding the answers, and just make up an answer that you like instead.

[@SteveBreuer]

I did six years aikido, and i would discribe it as hand to hand meditation. I would never relay on aikido in a real fight cause aikido, as you said, was not invented for real fights. But its a excelent base for becoming better in actual combat martial arts.

[@thebigbadwolf904]

Aikido is an art for experienced fighters It adds some extra weapons in your toolbox If you train it realistically.

[@howardwalton1876]

Bingo! That is EXACTLY it’s value from a practical/ self-defense perspective. Any other value it has is in teaching discipline/fitness/agility - but not teaching a novice to defend themselves. Great post, you nailed it!

[@robinredick8952]

35 years of Aikido and Aiki Jujutsu. Yes, completely right. It really does come down to the push/pull principle. Every technique uses it.

[@torahouse2006]

I loved Aikido, I still do. It is FUN! In a pinch and IF you are really good (i.e. spent decades practicing) and in the right conditions such as fending of a drunk person or stopping a confused patient from hurting himself, herself or someone else by applying necessary force... SURE! It's not for street fighting or cage fighting. Anyone with experience and without too much ego will agree that you have to be REALLY (really, really, really...) good at Aikido for it to be effective!

[@halfmaskedbastards2598]

@@davidbaron9355 .....even as a troll this is cringe inducing

[@ilikezappa3268]

@@DimitrijTheCreeper That made beer come down my nose ! You get the "Insult of the week" prize , (which is a naked picture of Piers Morgan .) Internet tough guys are hysterical. "Want to fly 3000 miles so we can fight ? Grrrrrr " I should have no problem because I was attacked by a battalion of US Marines and I stomped all of them without spilling my Miller Lite ........"

[@halfmaskedbastards2598]

@@davidbaron9355 dude I thought your comment was a troll it's written like a fucking comic book And as far as a fight I live I Rochester New York And even if I was in LA wouldn't even bother with your Aikido bullshit I have a purple belt in BJJ a blue belt in judo and I kickbox every fucking weekend with my friends for fun I spend my days on the Mats and my nights in my own Hand built gym with the three people I'm closest to My cousin with 5 years of wrestling experience My best friend who lives and breathes kickboxing And my little sister Yes my little sister Three years of boxing and Muay Thai She is 125 and she's missed the pads and cracked me with shots that made my knees go funny Either singlets and headgear or Shorts and gloves We work every night I spend more time in rashguards than I do in tshirts In the words of Brendan schaub "I could tackle you put my knee on your stomach and put my fucking dick in your mouth if I wanted to "

[@2235-n7x]

@@davidbaron9355 none of that happened lol shit sounds like a bad anime plot.

[@2235-n7x]

@@davidbaron9355 no the part of you just appearing behind him afterwards. There is even a meme about it you know the teleports behind you "nothing personal kid" one? And I was more talking about a guy flying at you and you just grab his wrist lmao.

[@liveyourdreamsdotbe]

I’ve practiced aikido for 12 years, and those who get mad about what others say about aikido, are not true aikido practitioners or any other martial art practitioners for that matter. You sir, are awesome in your approach Respect

[@alexmcgregor7082]

I know an ex Marine drill sgt. who teaches Aikido and it is brutal, lots of joint breaking, bone breaking and pressure points, it all depends on the teacher!

[@timrandall9479]

Spiderman?

[@stefangrundin172]

Thank you for your wisdom. I have recently returned from hospital due to pneumonia and meningitis, and because of the combination of these 2 things I lost my ability to walk. But as a method of rehabilitation I've started to do basic movements in Aikido and it made me walk again. Later on I took up Karate and discovered that many similarities exist in the stance of named martial art. So practice what you like and be happy, that is my advice

[@willtherealrustyschacklefo3812]

Good luck, I recommend qi gong exercises and tai chi if you wish to improve your health and overall physical ability. There's nothing better for that area of training. And It'll actually teach you how to make akido work as well lol

[@willtherealrustyschacklefo3812]

I've suffered many various different injuries throughout My life, car wrecks people attempting to kill me etc and I can assure you without all the training I've had in those arts regarding healing I would not have lived. Not to mention healing quick and properly is the most important part of any physical training.

[@LORLETHAL]

You are a very wise man, I have only been watching your videos for a bit now and some of the ways you go about explaining everything shows you actually know your stuff. Please keep making videos!!!!

[@namco7]

Practiced Aikido for years before making the transition for other systems that are more pragmatic. Totally agree with you and was so hilarious about the feedback you got, in many ways martial arts it's like religion itself, in good (self-development and bad ways (fundamentalism). Keep up the great work, it really cracked me up.

[@Ohne_Silikone]

Before my shoulder got ruined, I trained with a jujitsu trainer, who had a love for Aikido. He is the only person I know who really lived it. He was very no nonsense in the techniques he used, he did not like elaborate form over function, or sticking to traditions because... well, traditions! but he moved like water and was very deceptive in this way: every time you thought you would have a hold on him you only realised your folly as your body smashed against the tatami. Then as I had to move I entered a real Aikido club with a sixth dan Sensei and I got really confused.

[@nikokosminen4085]

Miss Informed, why confused

[@Ohne_Silikone]

Niko Kosminen because he was teaching so much more elaborate form in the technique, which really took away the flow of things. It was hard for me to incorporate this in the system I practiced. It was very different in this way.

[@Schwartzbruder1]

Been going through your library of videos and I've just found out that you've been posting for 10 years.

[@AWildBard]

What you said about pull when they push and push when they pull is correct. It's also the idea of Judo. A lot of the core of Aikido isn't just the techniques, but in becoming aware of force and energy, and choosing the right response to it. If someone has a strong center, you step off their center while maintaining your own center. If they come from the outside, you might attack or intercept from the inside. How do you maintain your balance and exploit the weaknesses of your partner's balance? This could be applied to and and all martial arts. This is what boxers are trying to do at lightning speeds, and what jujitsu fighters are trying to do at grappling range. Whether you can apply something in combat depends on many factors. Aikido really doesn't train for fighting. They don't even practice striking at all, for example. There are many things they don't do in Aikido. But you could take some core ideas and apply it in training combat martial arts. If you take an aerobics boxing class, you won't be competing in a world championship match or even a street fight. Does that mean that boxing is unrealistic and useless? What is your goal in martial arts?

[@bigbay1159]

Yes however applying the skills is another thing entirely, why learn Aikido when the proven form of Judo will get you exactly what you need. No fighter is going to select a form in which you never fully apply technique with something that forces you to apply the technique threw sheer practice and repetition against actual competition.

[@mattgoodmangoodmanlawnmowi2454]

Trained in the arts since 12. Trained several years with a top instructor/sensei. Striking - atemi - was frequently used to set up a counter-offense. We didn’t strike one another in practice but it was understood that striking might need to be included, especially against multiple attackers. And when it was needed, for real, in street combat, it was useful and used. Striking isn’t taught in ALL aikido schools might be more accurate. It isn’t meant for all but striking is definitely in the repertoire for a well trained aikidoka, just another tool. Especially if he or she has prior hand to hand combat training. Then it’s already wired into your nervous system. I have seen both incredibly hard & incredibly soft techniques on aikido mats and in dojo locker rooms. - Matt’s dad

[@MrCmon113]

Aerobics boxing classes are honest about not being about fighting. Aikido claims to teach you how to fight.

[@kbrodeur]

dig it dude, you were very thoughtful and respectful in a full 360, ramsey. thank you.

[@mia5505555055]

Arkido is a good tool for you to use in one of your fighting skill, depend on how effectively the person use it

[@FingerLaserZ]

Aikido works. It's just a matter of understanding the proper application(s) which takes patience and time ( I studied for 8 years). Like an architect who drafts designs - you have to develop a deeper understanding of sword, staff, short knife, and the positioning of your own body parts to allow air to move freely in that space you occupy...as well as to direct currents of that energy. Being a "door kicker" is easier than turning the key to enter.

[@bigbay1159]

This still doesn't bring up the massive flaw of never having to practice on someone who doesn't care. Any one can do a hip toss on a static partner or a friend in a dojo who complies. It is another to practice something like judo that ACTUALLY trains you to execute that hip throw. I can find multiple videos on youtube with people performing high level BJJ and Judo tactics in fights and sports. The same can not be said for aikido, that super flashy stuff is not being applied any where realistically.

[@Artist21st]

Well said. Aikido can be very effective.

[@danseigars1983]

I was trained in mixed martial arts starting when i was young. Aikido was one of the forms i learned. If isolated to just that form of martial art it is a strictly neutral and not combative, it's completely defensive. The other arts my sensei trained me in a mix was Judo, Hakka-Ryu Jujitsu, Shotokan Karatedo, Taekwondo, kickboxing. After leaving the dojo i read books on many other techniques that could assist in street fight scenarios as well as learning techniques from various other fighters in other styles of martial combat. I used my dojo experience as the core to my discipline and just added to it from various other styles. Allso what makes an excellent fighter is background, personality, mental health and physical health/conditioning. There is no one class of martial art that beats all, the correct way to view martial arts is which mix of martial arts is the best formula, which is the biggest part of what makes MMA so interesting to watch and participate in

[@MrCmon113]

>strictly neutral and not combative, it's completely defensive That is complete nonsense.

[@danseigars1983]

@@MrCmon113 not really. It’s a discipline that is most effective against a striker who isn’t well trained, basically an average joe. Aikido by itself is not effective against things like muay Thai or bjj

[@rk-sb8dm]

I began my Aikido study as a US Marine in 1958. It has been of great value to me and has helped me in difficult times. I enjoyed your thoughts and presentation. Kudos for a thoughtful presentation.

[@patrickaugie9442]

Ramsey, I've watched several of your videos....You are a cool guy who would be a great teaching anything...Keep making your videos...they are exceptional.

[@gligorijestrashni]

You've understood the essence of Aikido better than many who practiced...

[@23561avatar]

I agree. My opinion on aikido after 9 years of practising it (before moving on): It has some useful techniques, but many techniques are too complicated. On top of that, from what I've seen, people don't train to apply these techniques in a real fight; I rarely saw pressure testing and resisting opponents. Even if the technique could work, many aikido practitioners probably couldn't make it work, because they're not used to an aggressive opponent whose really putting them under pressure. Some techniques I think could work if trained the right way: kote gaeshi, standing nikyo, and hiji kime oae, (maybe) shiho nage. Too difficult imo: tenchi nage, uchi kaiten nage, sumi otoshi Regarding aikido's founder: Aikido's founder, Morihei Ueshiba, was (supposedly) a pretty tough guy, who trained different styles of old school jujutsu and weapon combat systems (like sword, spear, staff). Eventually he learned Daito ryu (meaning daito school) aiki-jujutsu, and this was the ancestor style that gave modern aikido many of its techniques and principles, like flowing with your opponent and using his energy against him. That said, aiki-jujutsu was a lot less peaceful in it's philosophy than aikido. Where aikido focuses on using your opponent's energy against him without harming him, aiki-jujutsu was more about using his energy against him so you could later break his arm. The reason why aikido became more peaceful than aiki-jujutsu, has to do with the religious beliefs of the founder. Morihei Ueshiba got into a religious sect, called the Oomoto kyo sect, and it stressed peace and harmony. Their teachings had a profound effect on Ueshiba and eventually, feeling his aiki-jujutsu was too harsh, he started using more flowery and spiritually inspired techniques as the years progressed. At a point, he decided he could no longer keep calling this new martial art aiki-jujutsu, and after a couple of name changes, he settled for aikido. You can actually see the changes in technique happening as Ueshiba ages. Aikido from 1935 was more direct and similar to aiki-jujutsu than aikido from the 1960'ties, when he was an old man. On a side note, judo's founder, Jigoro Kano, was apparently so impressed with aiki-jujutsu that he sent some of his students to Ueshiba's dojo, so they could learn more about it. Ueshiba himself however, never became a judo practitioner. I reckon he thought it had little to offer to him, as he was already trained in some old school jujutsu styles, and judo was just a watered down version of some other type of old school jujutsu. I think it's actually a bit sad to see how both aikido and judo were derived from old school jujutsu styles, but only judo turned into a respected combat sport, whereas aikido was watered down so much that people can't take it seriously anymore. Removing the competition element and obsessing about peaceful philosophy really did aikido in as a martial art.

[@RandAlthor939]

SirPilkington Totally agree

[@blazerman61]

SirPilkington .. I tried aikido looking for something I eventually got from Tai Chi...I can't be getting thrown around a room w 3 times a week at 53 yrs old.I need to go to work..it has a beautiful philosophy and mindset to it but like you said its reall y not practical to to days confrontations considering it was designed to disarm samurai guys

[@23561avatar]

@tman55575, Yes, the rolling can be quite challenging once you get older. About aikido being meant for use against samurai. That's what they told me too, but the thing is, I have a hard time swallowing that. Daito ryu aiki-jujutsu was supposedly meant for that purpose, as it was the family martial art of the Takeda samurai clan. Aikido on the other hand was developed at least 30 years after the abolition of the samurai class, as the result of Ueshiba's peaceful philosophy, so I don't think the system was specifically well designed for neutralising samurai. I think Ueshiba even stated that the purpose was not to hurt anyone, but if you look at systems that originated when the samurai were around, they're pretty merciless and violent. Maybe early aikido contained some good anti-samurai training drills , but I'm very certain the system as a whole wasn't meant for defence against samurai. My guess is that if a 16th century samurai were to see aikido how it's practised by many today, he'd be rolling on the floor laughing at the thought some people think that's supposed to disarm him. If aikido had really been meant for disarming samurai, I think we'd actually be looking at a much more practical and physically demanding system. In fact, I think judo is a lot closer to what a system for defence against samurai looked like, even though it's a watered down version of an older jujutsu style. Just my two cents.

[@oneguy7202]

I am agree with you i really like aikido philosophy but whdn in cime to combat krav maga has better philodophy and gjj and luta luvre had better that test in vale tudo

[@Madkendler]

I'm willing to bet actual money that the few moves that work are the ones that came directly from judo.

[@AvariusA2]

I was an Aikido practitioner and I can generally say most practitioners I met were also pretty chill. I've read on the philosophy and I also disagree with the vitriolic comments you've received. It is not the way of Aikido to attack someone or defend against nothing. I think people who do that aren't practicing at that moment. Those people need to meditate and reflect before posting.

[@younisfakhfakh3109]

Dunno if I'll ever get to Shanghai, but if I ever do, I ll drop down to you. You seem like a good guy full of wisdom ability n humour. 3 things you definitely need from a coach

[@genegoranov5865]

Mister, I am so impressed with the way you introduce subjects and your facial expressions!

[@lopezb]

As someone who loves Aikido, I find nothing wrong with your comments in this video. By the way, the founder of Aikido is Morihei Ueshiba, known as O Sensei. If you ever get a chance, practice some Aikido, but with a good teacher- just for fun of course! It's a wonderful art. It might be your thing at that moment. It's very beautiful and deep, so if you say "it's not my thing" you are really cutting yourself off from a whole world that you might end up loving, who knows! (The wrong attitude would be "I'm going to learn this to improve my MMA" of course- it would be better to think of it as completely unrelated, like modern dance or water skiing. Then you would come in with a genuinely open mind).

[@nourelcheikh5023]

I've done aikido for about 5 year's know and it is true, it's all about pushing and pulling and redirect that force back. Don't know why they got so mad

[@521Life]

I have studied Aikido for years...current 5th Dan, also hold black belts in two other arts...A great majority of Aikidoka don’t even know what Aikido is. People need to chill. Practice whatever you practice and enjoy life and let others enjoy theirs. Jeeeeshhh. The “Aikdio is/isn’t” argument is garbage. If you train long enough and effectively enough to kill with a plastic spoon it will work....it’s all about what and how you train. Forcing Aiki effectiveness down peoples throat only reveals insecurities in your training. I have literally been to donors that I walked out of because of the Hippie Like Philosophy pervasive in a lot of schools. Those same people go out and get the brakes beat off of them. It’s ridiculous. I’m sure I’m making someone’s blood boil even now.

[@orlandogonzalez9360]

nothing wrong with being a master of the art. Takes a lot of skill, technique etc. Kudos to you. What he is implying that is has ZERO use in the street. I know for a fact it does not. Neither does Hapkido, Shotokan, even TKD because they dont teach you to punch in the face.

[@521Life]

Orlando Gonzalez The way people train and interpret the art is the problem as I see it. I come from Karate background, I incorporate and practice with properly executed kicks and punches to where ever is open... I am also absolutely against practicing the traditional style Karate reverse punch. We also, have pro boxers that come over from time to time and work with us...my point is simply, any art should be what you make of it. When I came to Aikido, I saw millions of holes. Since I was in the art, I always tried to make the most of the art. Notwithstanding, to my understanding, Aiki isn’t a technique but a principle. Again... I think, it’s what you make of it. The basic techniques are nothing more than Katas. And traditional aikidoka need to learn to adapt...but they never will, because most are too sensitive and easily butt hurt when people poke their aiki-bubbles.

[@korybeckwith834]

Im interested in what you think of combat hapkido.

[@X1KCommercials]

I'm not really into modern MMA type fight culture, but I do have an appreciation and respect for old school martial arts and their philosophies. I see your videos a lot so I happen to watch them every once in a while and I truly appreciate your spirit. You seem to have a humble spirit and you aim to speak the truth without offending and disrespecting. From this alone I can tell that you don't think your invincible but at the same time it tells me that your a good fighter.

[@traditionalwadoryukarate8571]

I agree with most of what you say, all martial arts have their good and bad points. The secret as far as self defence is concerned is to strip it down to the very basics and pressure test everything in live training. I was a bouncer working one man doors for 15 years, I learnt pretty quick complicated techniques don't work. Traditional martial arts instructors need to be more honest with students and make it clear traditional arts are completely different to self protection street fighting techniques.

[@Maumauuuu123]

Haha i love how this video went from aikido to god, belief, and the galaxy. Loving it :D

[@Noble_Savage704]

Ramsey and everyone else, what up! Just discovered this channel. Love the Bushido going on here.

[@theboneman789]

i thpught that was cool how u handled that. u actually used their own philosaphy against them for aikido means harmony way if u translate the word and u was very harmonomous in your speach and actions. good job !!!! i was impressed.

[@MyVideoDiary7]

I'm just a full time accountant & part time photographer and know nothing about fights but man you are very analytical and intelligent, also very respectful of others against your opinion. I enjoy your videos, good luck to you sir.

[@RamseyDewey]

Thanks! The world needs accountants like you, my friend! You’re not “just” an accountant, you’re a person with a job that matters.

[@danielsmith5664]

Because of your approach to fighting, and your respect for people that practice things you may not agree with, you earned a subscription from me. As an Aikido practitioner, I don't disagree with anything you've said. I hate the bickering on both sides, people calling what we do Bullshido and Aikidokas firing back without thinking. It makes us all look bad XD

[@bathrobebattousai84]

danielsmith5664 I practice aikido because I’m a swordsman. Good enough reason for me. I cross train like a sum’bitch.

[@danielsmith5664]

Amen to that

[@jasondoom6004]

You have a very nice story-telling voice. 😊

[@arranlewis562]

Having recently decided to virtually give up on Aikido after 10 yrs practice. I watched this video with interest. My own conclusion is that anyone who is truly honest in the aikido world about their practice will realise that these techniques are not really useful or applicable in a normal fight. As most people are saying these days , pressure testing is the key and these techniques are simply not pressure tested in dojo’s. There are a few videos that have tried to test aikido techniques and the techniques simply fail. What particularly concerns me is that most aikido dojo’s advertise “self defence “ and weapons defence. Unfortunately in my experience this is simply not the case. I think there are more than enough video on here to show you that most so called knife defences simply don’t work. Where aikido and a lot of other so called martial arts let themselves down is advertising self defence. It simply will not work and those so called Sensei’s who advertise self defence are either deluded or lying. There maybe a few highly advanced aikido practitioners that can use aikido in self defence but very few and if you’re selling this for self defence, ultimately someone is going to get hurt. If you are an aikido practitioner and learning this relatively new art all you are learning is aikido and some really “cool” moves on willing opponents. Nothing more.

[@bigbay1159]

Very honest and the art needs more of it, honestly I have always felt why learn aikido when Judo does it better and actually trains you. From a holistic approach i get it but for self defense I would never have a friend or loved one think their aikido will keep them alive.

[@lascielthe-fallen4536]

I'll tell you what you believe. You believe in honest training for honest results. One style does not fit all. What you put in is what you get out. And the number one belief...everyone brings and is looking for something different. Not all students are the same and no student is wrong if they want something different out of their experience.

[@laililiups]

I just found out about your channel and love it! All your videos are very informative and fun, especially since I’m kind of new to martial arts and self defense :D