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đŸŽ„ WATCH: Why Soft Aikido Is More Difficult Than Most People Think

by Lia Suzuki
May 26, 2026
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Soft Aikido often looks effortless from the outside.

But in reality, it may be one of the hardest things to develop in training.

In this week’s video, I talk about:

  • why softness actually requires strong structure
  • how tension disrupts timing and connection
  • the hidden danger of “getting good” at forcing techniques
  • why mature Aikido often looks simple only after years of repetition

I also share a story from training in Japan connected to Yamaguchi Sensei that deeply shaped how I think about softness and ukemi.

Watch here:
https://youtu.be/bsaHfOGehgY

I hope the video gives you some ideas to explore in your own practice this week.


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2 person attack (Ni-nin gake)

 

🌿 Your Practice Prompt

During your next class, pay attention to the exact moment you begin forcing a technique. Can you release unnecessary tension and reorganize your movement instead of pushing harder?

Share your experience—I read every reply.

- -

Lia Suzuki
Author
   â€ą The Teacher
   â€ą Mastering The Shoto
Director: Aikido Kenkyukai International USA

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2026


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    Los Angeles, California, USA
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    Wexford, Ireland
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2027


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    Baarn, Netherlands
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