Aikido Shugyo by Gozo Shioda is perhaps the single most important work by the founder of Yoshinkan Aikido. It is available in English only through Shindokan Books. Together with Aikido Jinsei, Aikido Shugyo forms the basis for understanding Gozo Shioda and the Yoshinkan style. The original Japanese text was translated into English by Jacques Payet Sensei (of Aikido Mugenjuku in Kyoto, Japan) and Chris Johnston Sensei. It remains one of today’s most insightful texts for all martial artists.
From the Shindokan Books website:
Throughout this important and insightful work, Shioda Sensei relates many stories about the time he spent training directly with the founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba Sensei, about his war-time experiences and about his years as the Headmaster of the Yoshinkan. He also uses countless anecdotes to convey important insights into the functioning and application of Aikido techniques. Aikido Shugyo will inspire anyone interested in traditional martial arts with its lessons, its history, and its straight-forward approach to the application of Aikido techniques.
Aikido Shugyo is scattered throughout with stories relating to Gozo Shioda’s training with Ueshiba Sensei and it offers deep insight into the genius that was Ueshiba O’Sensei. Because of his unique place in history, these are lessons that only Gozo Shioda could offer. The book includes a detailed discussion of the fundamental martial arts principles – each of these is told through captivating stories and analogies. These are key concepts that can improve any martial artists technique. It also includes insights into the development and application of Kokyu Power as well as advice for training in the most efficient way. Finally, this insightful book concludes with a discussion about the place of martial arts training in our lives today. Truly a classic in martial arts literature and a highly recommended text for anyone interested in any form of Aikido.
Visit the Shindokan Books website for more information.