The Aiki Dojo Podcast
Translating traditional Aikido and traditional martial arts training into the modern world. Hosted by David Ito, Chief Instructor of Aikido Center of Los Angeles, along with Ken Watanabe Shihan, Bill D'Angelo, and Mike Van Ruth. The podcast explores Aikido philosophy, techniques, and how to apply them in contemporary life.
Episodes
A Discussion on Aikido and Swordsmanship
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Aikido and Swordsmanship In Episode 82 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ken Watanabe Shihan discusses his experience with swordsmanship and his Aikido training. Watanabe Shihan is 6th Dan in Aikido and 5th Dan in Muso Shinden-ryu Iaido. He brings a unique perspective on swordsmanship that was forged studying under Rev. Kensho Furuya since the late 1980s. Enjoy!Watc
Edgar Johansson Sensei and Budo vs. Bullshido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Edgar Johansson Sensei and Budo vs. Bullshido In Episode 81 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei interviews Edgar Johansson Sensei from Denver Aikikai. Johansson Sensei started Aikido in 1990 and has built up an impressive resume of teacher that he has actually studied under. Johansson Sensei is a seeker who is interested in not only the deeper philosophical aspects of Aiki
Martial Arts Movies and Their Role in Training
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Martial Arts Movies and Their Role in TrainingIn Episode 80 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss martial arts movies and their role in training. Ito Sensei gives a few of his favorite films and explains the martial concepts in others. In this video, he will talk about icons from Bruce Lee to Steven Seagal. He will also talk about these movies/tv shows: Heroes with Vincent Z
Aikido Myths, Legends, and Tall Tales
The The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Aikido Myths, Legends, and Tall TalesIn Episode 79 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss a few of the myths in Aikido training. Some of these myths are allegorical teachings that students must train to find out for themselves the real meanings. Others are tall tales that have survived over time. Tune in and listen to find out what is real and what is really going on. En
A Discussion on Dojo Culture
The The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Dojo Culture In Episode 78 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss dojo culture. Is it true that birds of a feather flock together or that one bad apple spoils the bunch? Is dojo culture crucial? If so, who creates this culture? Tune in and find out. Enjoy! Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/YIxSQM3nGmAThe Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate
A Discussion on Aikido as Self-defense
The The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Aikido as Self-defenseIn Episode 77 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei and Yoshida Sensei discuss Aikido as a form of self-defense. Is Aikido a form of fighting or combat? It it a viable means of self-defense? Should it be used as a form of self-defense? Tune to find out. For more information about Yoshida Sensei contact him at: glennyoshida@gmail.comE
Coming Back to Training After a Long Layoff
The The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Coming Back to Training After a Long LayoffIn Episode 76 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei discusses coming back to practice after a long layoff. There are so many factors that go into someone quitting and even more to them coming back. Ito Sensei discusses his point of view of how to rejoin training and what it takes to come back. Enjoy!Watch this episode here: http
A Discussion About Budo Renshu With Glenn Yoshida Sensei
The The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion About Budo Renshu With Glenn Yoshida SenseiIn Episode 75 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Glenn Yoshida Sensei from Renshinkan Dojo shares he thoughts on O’Sensei’s book Budo Renshu. Budo Renshu is a book published by Morihei Ueshiba in the late 1930s. It features drawings of the execution of his techniques before Aikido became “Aikido.” In English the book is tit
Ken Watanabe Shihan's 5 Things All Beginners Should be Working on
The The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Ken Watanabe Shihan's 5 Things All Beginners Should be Working onIn Episode 74 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ken Watanabe Shihan gives 5 things that he thinks all beginners should be working on. Enjoy!Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/xnNLftPYwLoThe Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditional Aikido and traditional martial arts training into the modern
Part 2 of an Interview with Jay Dunkelman Sensei
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Part 2 of an Interview with Jay Dunkelman SenseiIn Episode 73 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, this is the second part of Ito Sensei’s interview of Jay Dunkelman Sensei of Kuwamori dojo in Japan. Kuwamori dojo was the first dojo created outside of Hombu dojo in the early 1950s. Dunkelman Sensei moved to Japan in 1977 and was a long time student of Chiba Sensei. Enjoy! Watch thi
An Interview with Jay Dunkelman Sensei
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An Interview with Jay Dunkelman SenseiIn Episode 72 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei interviews Jay Dunkelman Sensei of Kuwamori dojo in Japan. Kuwamori dojo was the first dojo created outside of Hombu dojo in the early 1950s. Dunkelman Sensei moved to Japan in 1977 and was a long time student of Chiba Sensei. Enjoy! Listen to this episode here: https://youtu.be/82l7WSX
The Beginner’s Ego
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Beginner’s EgoIn Episode 71 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we begin a series of discussions on beginners. This particular episode deals with the ego and the beginner. Should a beginner have an ego? What is the role of the ego in training? How to recognize the ego. Tune in and find out the answers to the questions and much much more. Enjoy!Watch this episode here: https://you
The Roll of the Uke
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Roll of the UkeIn Episode 70 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we have a discussion about the uke. The uke is the one who “receives” the technique. From the outside looking in, the uke seems like just a throwing dummy. However, the uke’s role is much more than just rolling or setting someone up to look good. Tune in and find out how important the role of the uke is to developin
Should we Cross Train in Other Martial Arts?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Should we Cross Train in Other Martial Arts?In Episode 69 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we have a discussion on what martial arts, arts, or practices compliment Aikido. Should we cross train in other martial arts or arts? Do other styles compliment Aikido or does Aikido compliment other styles? Tune in for the answers and much much more. Enjoy!Watch this episode here: https://
A Discussion on The Teacher-Student Relationship
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on The Teacher-Student RelationshipIn Episode 68 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss the relationship between the student and the teacher. Is the relationship different? What is the reason for any relationship? Do we need to have a teacher? Tune in for the answers and much much more. Enjoy!Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/ITJGv1jTlqMThe Aiki Dojo Pod
A Discussion on Intention
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Intention In Episode 67 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we spend some time discussing intention. Is intention necessary in one’s training? Do we need to define our intention in training? Tune in and see what role or importance intention plays in one’s Aikido training. Enjoy!Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/8dd-Xp6Gu1UThe Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to tr
An Interview with Michael Gallo Sensei
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An Interview with Michael Gallo SenseiIn Episode 66 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we interview Michael Gallo Sensei, Aikido 6th Dan of Aikido San Marcos. Gallo Sensei is 6th Dan Aikikai and 8th Dan Daito-ryu. Listen in for some interesting stories. Enjoy!Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/dsl5s4Qz8lUThe Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditional Aikido and tra
Why is Aikido Hard to Learn
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Why is Aikido Hard to LearnIn Episode 65 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we learning Aikido and why it can be hard to learn. In this episode we will delve into the mindset of the student and also the motivation of the teacher. Does either one play a role in the difficult in learning Aikido? Tune in and find out. Enjoy!Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/W5paFxLMFvIYou can a
Is Aikido The Art of Peace?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Is Aikido The Art of Peace?In Episode 64 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss the Art of Peace with special guest Glenn Yoshida Sensei, Aikido 7th Dan from Aikido Renshinkan. The common assumption about Aikido is that it is for defensive purposes and people think that Aikido is centered around this idea of non-violence or passivity. We discuss this idea and mull over the co
A Discussion on Martial Awareness
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Martial AwarenessIn Episode 63 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss awareness. Martial awareness is the ability to quickly size up an opponent or a situation. Typically this training begins with trying to read one’s teacher and then we use that skill to read our opponents. We need to know what they might know and what their intentions are. How is awareness c
A Discussion on Quitting
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on QuittingIn Episode 62 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss quitting. Not quitting from the standpoint within the first 30-60 days. We mull over the possible reasons and possible remedies for people who quit after they have been training for a while. It is not the exhaustive tome on quitting but just some insights from three people who have almost 100 years o
An Interview with Mark Dufresne
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An Interview with Mark DufresneIn Episode 61 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we interview Mark Dufresne. Mark was a student of Rev. Kensho Furuya's in the 1970s. In this interview Mark brings 50 years of Aikido training and experience. A truly eye opening interview. Enjoy!Watch this episode here:https://youtu.be/x5_hAyHfZFQThe Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditio
Do Dominance Rituals Belong in Aikido?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Do Dominance Rituals Belong in Aikido?
This is the first podcast episode of 2025. In Episode 60 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss if shaming, hazing or other dominance rituals belong in Aikido. Is hazing or shaming a true aspect of learning. Does a teacher have to be dominant? Does the student have to be subservient? We try to answers these and many other questions.
Enj
Is Aikido Meditation?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Is Aikido Meditation?
The last Aiki Dojo Podcast of 2024. In Episode 59 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss if Aikido is meditation. Most confuse the difference between something being meditative and mindful. Ito Sensei gives his take on how to get to a place where the training becomes almost meditative because it creates mindfulness which leads us to learning how to rela
You Want to Start Your Own Dojo?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - You Want to Start Your Own Dojo?
In Episode 58 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei talks about what he says when someone asks to start their own dojo. He believes that it isn’t so much a matter of a specific rank, but rather that one apply themselves in the process and preparation to become a person who teaches others.
Enjoy!
Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/
Aikido Conversations II
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Aikido Conversations II
In Episode 57 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss a number of different topics related to Aikido, training, and martial arts. Listen in on the conversation.
Enjoy!
Watch it here: https://youtu.be/uPbViZHqAFg
You can also listen to this podcast on iTunes or Spotify or wherever you download your podcast.
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to transl
A Discussion on Strengths vs. Weaknesses
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on Strengths vs. Weaknesses
In Episode 56 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss whether building upon your strengths or addressing your weaknesses makes you a better Aikidoist or helps you develop faster.
Enjoy!
Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/_hLl7HD73Qw
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditional Aikido and tr
Aikido Conversations I
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Aikido Conversations I
In Episode 55 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss a number of different topics related to Aikido, training, and martial arts. Listen in on the conversation.
Enjoy!
Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/8Ab2asTZDJM
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditional Aikido and traditional martial arts training into the modern world. The p
Sportsmanship and Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Sportsmanship and Aikido
In Episode 54 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss sportsmanship and how it applies to Aikido training. Although, Aikido is not a sport, it does share some common traits that go hand in hand with sportsmanship.
Enjoy!
Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/Udyl4VmEkuc
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditional Aikido and traditiona
Atemi in Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Atemi in Aikido
In Episode 53 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss atemi (当て身) or the practice of striking in Aikido. We discuss its history, evolution, and its place in training.
Enjoy!
Watch it here: https://youtu.be/QtnyuqvQaVo
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditional Aikido and traditional martial arts training into the modern world. The podcast is h
Why is Aikido Misunderstood?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Why is Aikido Misunderstood?
In Episode 52 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss how Aikido might be misunderstood by not only practitioners but by the general public. It comes down to how Aikido is classified. Aikido can be exercise, a martial art, a philosophy, a discipline and maybe even a religion. But, what we see might not be what we are looking for and thus we fall in
How Does Age Affect Training?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - How Does Age Affect Training?
In Episode 51 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss the role age and aging and how it affects training. On a certain level, age is a mindset. Those who think they can, will. Those who think they can’t, won’t. Tune into the discussion on how age affects Aikido training.
Enjoy!
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditional Aikido and t
Is Aikido Lethal?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Is Aikido Lethal?
In Episode 50 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss lethality and discus the whether or not Aikido is lethal. Aikido is a mature martial art but it has its roots in traditional Japanese Jujitsu dating as far back as mid 800 AD. Born out of warfare and combat, Aikido strives to be a modern martial art and thus the role of killing has been evolved out of the
The Importance of Correct Ukemi
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Importance of Correct Ukemi
In Episode 49 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss ukemi and how its correct execution is imperative to the mastery of Aikido. Ukemi is not just falling down for someone. It is an intricate and detail oriented process of moving with the nage. Ukemi teaches us so much more than physical movement that it becomes a metaphor for how to live one’s
Failure Teaches Success
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Failure Teaches Success
In Episode 48 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss how failure is the key to success. Success is great and it feels good to celebrated. However, in terms of self-development, failure is a way better tool.
Watch it here: https://youtu.be/GsL-CxdYmlo
Watch Kendo’s Most Grueling Challenge here: https://youtu.be/qlXZvtxBjlI
Enjoy!
The Aiki Dojo Po
Is Aikido an Art?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Is Aikido an Art?
In Episode 47 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss the concept of Aikido being a form of art. Find out what constitutes something being classified as an art and if Aikido is an art.
Enjoy!
Watch it here: https://youtu.be/MXlwwN6tpBU
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditional Aikido and traditional martial arts training into the modern world.
Aikido in the 21st Century & Beyond
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Aikido in the 21st Century & Beyond
In Episode 43 of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss how Aikido is different today in the 21st century and what people have to differently.
Enjoy!
Watch to it here: https://youtu.be/1pWBgeUOnls
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditional Aikido and traditional martial arts training into the modern world. The podcast i
Teaching: Yesterday vs. Today
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Teaching: Yesterday vs. Today
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss teaching and learning in the past and in the present. Within this topic, Ito Sensei discusses if Aikido is relevant, what it was like studying under Furuya Sensei and how modern traditional training can be applied to martial artists of today.
Enjoy!
Watch here: https://youtu.be/IGscHaQ-s
What it Takes to Get to 25 Years
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - What it Takes to Get to 25 Years
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, Ito Sensei talks with Santiago Garcia Almaraz Sensei of Kodokai Dojo about their dojo’s 25th anniversary. Find out about the ups and downs and what it takes to get to 25 years.
Enjoy!
Watch here: https://youtu.be/GDqD_ztsdmw
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditional Aikido and tradit
A Discussion on The Mindset of Mastery
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on The Mindset of Mastery
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss mastery and the psychology surrounding it. Is mastery or excellence an all the time thing? Or is it something we strive for? Find out!
Enjoy!
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditional Aikido and traditional martial arts training into the modern world. The podcast is ho
An Interview With Pepe Jesus Garcia, Aikido 7th Dan
An Interview With Pepe Jesus Garcia, Aikido 7th Dan
Ito Sensei interviews 7th Dan Aikido teacher Pepe Jesus Garcia. Garcia Shihan has been doing Aikido since the 1970s and studied in Japan. Garcia Shihan is also the president of Spain Aikikai and follows Endo Sensei.
Watch here: https://youtu.be/SMPEeVNeEdc
Learn more about Garcia Shihan: https://spainaikikai.org/2019/01/20/pepe-jesus-garcia-6o-
The Unintended Benefits of Aikido Training
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Unintended Benefits of Aikido Training
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss the unintended benefits from Aikido training. Ito Sensei shares his personal story about a benefit he received from his Aikido training that he didn’t realize would happen.
Enjoy!
Watch it here: https://youtu.be/6Cp1E01XOWU
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate tradition
An Interview With Gayne Sogi, Aikido 7th Dan
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An Interview With Gayne Sogi, Aikido 7th Dan
Ito Sensei interviews 7th Dan Aikido teacher Gayne Sogi from Hawaii Betsuin Aikido Club. Sogi Sensei has been doing Aikido since 1960 and was a long time student of Sadao Yoshioka Sensei.
Hawaii Betsuin Aikido Club: https://www.aikidohawaii.org/dojo_hbac.html
Watch it here: https://youtu.be/kO-tyr_KSTs
The Aiki Dojo Podcast g
Using Cheats, Hacks, and Shortcuts in Training
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Using Cheats, Hacks, and Shortcuts in Training
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo Podcast, we discuss ways to accelerate one’s learning in terms of employing cheats, hacking, or any other shortcut.
Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/tGpzjPx3RR0
A Discussion on the Evolution of Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - A Discussion on the Evolution of Aikido
Ito Sensei welcomes back Glenn Yoshida Sensei from Aikido Renshinkan Hawaii. In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we answer a listener’s question and discuss how Aikido is evolved over years.
Watch it here: https://youtu.be/kevNoadMDq0
Enjoy!
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditional Aikido and traditional marti
What do you know now that you wished you knew back then?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - What do you know now that you wished you knew back then?
Watch the podcast here: https://youtu.be/0PIB_j2z-bo
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we reflect back on our Aikido training. What do we know now that we wished we knew back then? What do you think students should know before they start? What are some things that you wish you could change? The answer to these
Obstacles in Training
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Obstacles in Training
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we discuss obstacles in training. Obstacles can be physical, mental, philosophical or even spiritual. The topics vary from injury to discouragement. No matter who we are or how long we have been training, we will always be confronted with obstacles.
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s goal is to translate traditional Aik
An Interview with Salvatore LaCorte Shihan
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we interview Salvatore LaCorte Shihan. LaCorte Shihan is a 6th degree black belt Shihan in Aikido. He started Aikido in 1981 under Linda Lee Vecchio Shihan. Vecchio Shihan was one of the first female Shihan in Aikido. LaCorte Shihan brings over 42 years of experience to the mat.
Enjoy!
Watch it here: https://youtu.be/eyjUJuBBqMU
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s g
Aikido and Swordsmanship
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Aikido and Swordsmanship
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we welcome Ken Watanabe Sensei. Watanabe Sensei is a 6th degree black belt in Aikido and a 5th degree black belt in Muso Shinden-ryu Iaido. Together with Watanabe Sensei, we discuss what role swordsmanship plays in Aikido training.
Enjoy!
Watch it here: https://youtu.be/gGgk42DH1jw
The Aiki Dojo Podcast’s
The Role of Break Fall Training in Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Role of Break Fall Training in Aikido
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we discuss the role of break fall or tobi ukemi (飛び受け身) in Aikido training. Tobi means “to fly” and ukemi means “to accept with your body.” Over the last 50+ years break fall ukemi has really evolved. In the past, break fall ukemi was reserved for higher level students. Today, with the impro
Remembering Your Teacher
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Remembering Your Teacher
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we discuss the importance of remembering one’s teachers. On a certain level, remembering one’s teachers is an act of gratitude. There is a power that comes with remembering our teachers. Furuya Sensei often talked about something “spiritual capital.” Spiritual capital is the resource that we draw upon to giv
An Interview With David Ito Sensei
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An Interview With David Ito Sensei
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, Santiago Almaraz Garcia turns the tables on David Ito Sensei and interviews him. This interview was conducted in November of 2022 before Ito Sensei was promoted to 6th Dan. Find out more about Ito Sensei and what it was like starting Aikido over 30 years ago in this episode of the Aiki Dojo Podcast
Aikido and Spirituality
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Aikido and Spirituality
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we discuss Aikido and the role spirituality plays in its practice. Aikido is not a religion, a dojo is not a church and the teacher is not a guru. However, Aikido does have a heavy spiritual component. People often think that Aikido is more of a spiritual martial art because there is no competition. It is tru
How to Handle Injuries
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - How to Handle Injuries
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we discuss injuries in Aikido training. At some point or another, every person will experience an injury in their Aikido training. Injuries occur because of one or a combination of three factors: nage error, uke error or teacher error. Injuries are one of the greatest teachers in our training because, often ti
Part TWO: An Interview with Didier Boyet Shihan
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An Interview with Didier Boyet Shihan Part TWO
This is the part two of Ito Sensei's interview with Didier Boyet Shihan. Boyet Shihan is ranked Aikido 7th Dan and Iaido 6th Dan. Boyet Shihan started Aikido in 1971 and studied at Hombu Dojo from 1977-2016 and was a long time student of T.K. Chiba Sensei. In this over 51 years of experiences he brings an interesting perspectiv
Part ONE - An Interview with Didier Boyet Shihan
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An Interview with Didier Boyet Shihan Part 1
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, Ito Sensei interviews Didier Boyet Shihan. Boyet Shihan is ranked Aikido 7th Dan and Iaido 6th Dan. Boyet Shihan started Aikido in 1971 and studied at Hombu Dojo from 1977-2016 and was a long time student of T.K. Chiba Sensei. In this over 51 years of experiences he brings an interesting
What are the Best Qualities of a Martial Artist?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - What are the Best Qualities of a Martial Artist?
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we discuss which qualities are the best for martial artists. If you could only give a student one or two traits, which traits would you choose? Some might choose six pack abs while others would choose incredible strength. Ito Sensei would only choose determination.
The Aiki Dojo Podca
Is Aikido Real Budo?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Is Aikido Real Budo?
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we discusses the concept of Aikido and Budo. Many think people think that for something to be a true Budo art that it has to involve killing and with that definition Aikido does not qualify. Ito Sensei discusses what it means to be “Budo” and how Aikido is in fact Budo. Budo is not the “art of killing” but rathe
Authenticity in Aikido
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, Ito Sensei and Glenn Yoshida Sensei from Aikido Renshinkan Hawaii discuss authenticity in Aikido. Many think that to be authentic the attacks and the techniques need to be contemporary. Ito Sensei and Yoshida Sensei debate this theory and discuss how authenticity is really in the intention.
The Aiki Dojo Podcast goal is to translate traditional Aikido and
An Interview With Glenn Yoshida, Aikido 7th Dan from Aikido Renshinkan Hawaii
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An Interview With Glenn Yoshida, Aikido 7th Dan
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, Ito Sensei interviews Glenn Yoshida Sensei from Aikido Renshinkan Hawaii. Yoshida Sensei started Aikido in the 1960s and is 7th Dan. In his youth, he spent over a decade training at Hombu Dojo. Over his 60+ years of Aikido training, Yoshida Sensei has had the privilege of studying with
The Two Most Challenging Ranks: 3rd Kyu & 3rd Dan
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Two Most Challenging Ranks: 3rd Kyu & 3rd Dan
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, discuss the phenomenon where students quit training at either 3rd Kyu or 3rd Dan. Typically, people tend to quit training around 3rd Kyu or 3rd Dan. This is because of doubt. 3rd Kyu students have been training for a few years and the movement hasn’t become second nature which ma
Convincing People About Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Convincing People About Aikido
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we answer a listener question about how to convince other people about Aikido. For one reason or another, Aikido’s effectiveness and validity as a martial art comes into question. For beginners, defending Aikido is a difficult argument to debate. In this episode, Ito Sensei discusses how he deals with
An interview with Andrew Blevins Sensei from Kiryu Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An interview with Andrew Blevins Sensei from Kiryu Aikido
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we interview Andrew Blevins Sensei of Kiryu Aikido. Blevins Sensei has been doing Aikido since 1985 and has studied many different styles of Aikido including Iwama style and Tomiki style and was the Chief Instructor at Nippon-kan for many years. Blevins Sensei brings over 37
The Difference Between Customers and Students
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Difference Between Customers and Students
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we discuss the difference between being a student and being a customer. Having a student’s mindset is about educating oneself while the customer’s mindset is transactional. The student thinks about learning and improving themselves. The customer wants to get something for their money. Ho
What does it mean to be a good teacher?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - What does it mean to be a good teacher?
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we discuss the teacher and what it means to be considered “good.” Does good mean having lots of students? Does good mean being solely technically proficient? In the past, a teachers only qualification used to be in how strict they were. Does that hold true today? If not, then what makes someon
Should Teachers Hit Their Students?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Should Teachers Hit Their Students?
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we answer another listener question. This question deals with teachers and whether or not they should hit their students as a tool to improve their learning ability or for any other reason. Ito Sensei weighs in on this controversial topic.
The Aiki Dojo Podcast goal is to translate traditional Aik
Teaching Philosophies
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Teaching Philosophies
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we answer a listener question about teaching philosophies and teaching at other dojos.
The Aiki Dojo Podcast goal is to translate traditional Aikido and traditional martial arts training into the modern world. The podcast is hosted by David Ito Sensei who is the Chief Instructor of the Aikido Center of Los Ange
Looking Back on 2021
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Looking Back on 2021
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we look back on not only 2021 but the entire pandemic and discuss how things have changed. This is our 14th episode and season 1 finale. We look forward to 2022 and many more episodes.
The Aiki Dojo Podcast goal is to translate traditional Aikido and traditional martial arts training into the modern world. The p
The Art of Peace vs. The Art of War
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Art of Peace vs. The Art of War
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we again discuss a topic presented by a listener. This listener wants to understand how one should reconcile O’Sensei’s philosophy of peace and non-violence with certain Aikido techniques and movements which seem aggressive and contrary to his philosophies. Ito Sensei gives his take on what “peace
The Art of Being a Student
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Art of Being a Student
In this week’s episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we discuss another topic presented from a listener. Listener Chris asks, “What does it mean to be a student in a traditional art.” Ito Sensei explains that being a student is an art in and of itself. He discusses that to be thought of as a “good” student requires that the student not only be committ
Aikido in Your Daily Life
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Aikido in Your Daily Life
This episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast answers a listener question. Listener Miriam references a passage from Furuya Sensei’s book Kodo: "Today, in our fast-paced world, I think students of martial arts need to plunge deeper into their training. It is not that training needs to be more intense, but that training should pervade our whole lives.” Miri
Learning Traditionally in Modern Times
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Learning Traditionally in Modern Times
This episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast deals with the conundrum of training in a traditional martial art in the modern day. Ito Sensei’s view is that there is no distinction between the student of the past and the student of the present. The teachers of old gave the student little information while the student of today has a lot of info
The Martial Mindset
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast we discusses a question from one of our viewers. She asks, “Could you talk about body (physical) mind and spirit in Aikido? Focused more on back in the old days about how samurai took care of themselves and stayed prepared for war and chaos.” Thus, the basic answer is really more about the mindset that a warrior has which keeps them prepared and sharp at al
Weapons Training in Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Weapons Training in Aikido
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, Ito Sensei discusses weapons training in Aikido. Aikido movement, timing and spacing are based upon weapon’s movement, timing and spacing. Logically it would seem that weapons proficiency is required in Aikido. But, is that true? Watch or listen and make a decision for yourself.
The Aiki Dojo Podcast goal
An interview with Santiago Almaraz Sensei
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - An interview with Santiago Almaraz Sensei
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, we interview Santiago Almaraz Sensei of Salamanca Aikikai - Kodokai Dojo. Since the late 1990s, Almaraz Sensei has been coming to Los Angeles to train directly under Furuya Sensei. Almaraz Sensei has affiliated with the Aikido Center of Los Angeles for over 26 years.
The Aiki Dojo Podc
The Role of the Teacher in Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Role of the Teacher in Aikido
In this episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast, they discuss the role of the teacher in traditional training. The word sensei (先生) translates as “one who comes before” but does that every person who comes before is “the teacher?” What does it mean to be a teacher today. Everyone uses that title but more most qualified to be a sensei?
The Aiki Doj
The Role of Creativity in Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Role of Creativity in Aikido
This episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast discusses creativity and freedom in Aikido and what role it plays in Aikido’s practice. These just some of the questions discussed on this podcast.
The Aiki Dojo Podcast goal is to translate traditional Aikido and traditional martial arts training into the modern world. The podcast is hosted by David Ito
What Does a Black Belt Mean?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - What Does Black Belt Mean?
This episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast discusses what the meaning of black belt is today and in the past. Is black belt the end of the journey? Should people be pursuing rank? What does it even mean to attain a black belt? These just some of the questions discussed on this podcast.
The Aiki Dojo Podcast goal is to translate traditional Aikido and t
Is Aikido Effective?
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - Is Aikido Effective? This episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast delves into effectiveness and Aikido. Ito Sensei outlines what it means to be effective and answers the age old question, "Is Aikido Effective?" Let us know if you have a topic that you would like Ito Sensei discuss in his next podcast. The Aiki Dojo Podcast goal is to translate traditional Aikido and traditional ma
The Role of Philosophy in Aikido
The Aiki Dojo Podcast - The Role of Philosophy in Aikido
This episode of the Aiki Dojo podcast focuses on the role of philosophy in traditional Aikido training. Ito Sensei discusses what the basic philosophies are and where they are applied at every level of one’s training. Let us know if you have a topic that you would like Ito Sensei discuss in his next podcast.
The Aiki Dojo Podcast goal is to
