Aikido from the womans's point of view.
Since mid-2016 I'm running my own dojo, but continue to train myself twice a week.
I'm the deputy head of the association and youth officer.
Two experiences have been particularly well remembered:
In a training exercise my uke (a man) explained he was uncertain where to fall. It was then I realised I was subconciously not taking the leadership role.
The other time I practiced a Kotegaeshi with my partner. When he got up, he said: "Never thought that there is so much energy in such a small person. I had no chance."
For me, Aikido means a different way, the japanese way of dealing with people. Learning with teachers who have impressive skills. On the other hand, giving their appreciation in the form of graduation and attention to each other. And this is not only for the technical know-how, but also for the commitment to learn and to the support of the community, everyone to the extent that he/she is able.
On the other hand, after many years of learning, the beginners and advanced learners come and ask for help and explanation. The responsibility for them only makes me want to continue to learn.
Would I see that differently as a man? I can only assume.
Martina Rüter from Duisburg, 3. Dan Tendoryu Aikido, 1997
