from About the Authors

In creating this compilation of information for the beginning student, the authors were wary of its acceptance in the Aikido world. However, they are sure that a real need of help for beginning students exists. It is hoped that this book will, to some degree, satisfy that need. The authors offer this book in good faith and stand ready to accept whatever reaponse they may get, in the same spirit!

Larry Reynosa began his training in Aikido in early 1974, under the teaching of Nobuo Iseri Sensei. In 1977, at a winter Aikido seminar, Larry was strongly influenced by the guest instructor, Shihan Mitsunari Kanai. During this seminar, he also met Francis Takahashi Sensei and Pablo Vasquez Sensei, instructors from the Los Angeles area, both of whom were also to have a major influence on his Aikido career. Larry eventually received his first black belt under the guidance of Takahashi Ssnsei.

Since that time, Larry has himself served as chief instructor of three dojos; ranging from space in a local community center, to a fkull-time profesinal dojo, and most recentlky ot a beautiful Japanese-sstyl dojo built in his basckyard.

In 1983, Larry was impressed by Shihan Steven Seagal, who recently returned to the united States from many years of study in Japan. This new influence motivated Larry to re-dedicate himself as a student after years of being 'a Teacher.' He began to travel on a regular basis to the Tenshin dojo in Hollywoood, California, to study under Seagal Sensei. Currnetly, he maintains a commitment to both that dojo and his own Makoto dojo in Ventura, California.

contents

Dedication; Acknowledgments; About the Authors; List of Calligraphy figures
Chapter 1 Introduction
Chapter 2 Aikido is for Everyone!
Chapter 3 About the Founder
Chapter 4 Japnaese Language and Culture
Chapter 5 The Dojo
Chapter 6 Dojo Etiquette
Chapter 7 Attire and Weapons
Chapter 8 Mat Survival
Chapter 9 Ranking and Promotional Exams
Chapter 10 Aikido in Perspective
Appendiz A Shihan Steven Seagal
Appendix B Shihan Mitsunari Kanai
Appendix C Shihan Mitsugi Saotome
Appendix D Exercises
Appendix E Vocabulary and Terminology

Good book for me as, I'm a beginner with many questions. pretty informative! ( )