Full Body Training , Saturday, August 22, 2009 at 2:58 AM, in

It is understandable to think that when performing a technique which requires us to grab our opponent's wrist with our right hand, that our left hand does nothing to help with the throw.
But really does it?
As we know from our practice, Aikido makes use of complex movements such as spherical hip movements, and snaking wrist spirals which lead us in many different directions. So clearly we have lots of muscles being involved and it follows that perhaps our left hand isn't quite doing nothing. Lets explore this further on two levels.
If we examine a common muscle such as the biceps, we discover that it spans two joints, the shoulder and elbow. The shoulder-blade which is one of the attachment points for the biceps is also used in the function of many other muscles.







So when we activate the muscles in our left arm during an action involving the right hand, the benefits spread through the links of our musco-skeletal system to provide stability. This stability is so important in Aikido, since our ability to move freely and to redirect power is built upon the foundations of a strong stable centre.
What we do with our limbs directly impacts the focus of our mind. For example, without making any physical motions try to give someone directions to a particular location. Hard isn't it? Not only is pointing and gesturing helpful in getting a point across, but it's also an important part of formulating and solidifying an idea in our own minds. If we can strengthen an idea or intent in our minds, our commitment in performing a technique is so much higher and likewise our ability to lead and control our opponents improved.
Stretching and activating our arms, fingers, legs, back and in-fact our entire bodies in various directions throughout a technique is like forming the trusses and struts of our internal structure. This reinforcement allowing us to bear the incredible forces experienced during a throw. Furthermore, it is through our limbs and direction of our eyes that we can lead our bodies and minds into the spiral movements of Aikido.

Armed with an understanding of the reasons behind using both sides of the body during techniques a new awareness can pervade your daily practice.

Gregor Erdmann is a certified personal trainer and the instructor at the Blue Leaf Dojo in Sydney, Australia.
Classes are held at Tuesday and Thursday nights at the Burwood PCYC and caters for all levels. Gregor Sensei is known for his attention to detail and his one on one teaching approach with all his students. Visit our site at http://www.BlueLeafDojo.com.