Why does aikido training not include defense techniques against kicks?
Aikido does include defensive techniques against kicks. They are the same as those used against hand strikes. However, the ukemi for techniques that take out the legs is dangerous. Practice against kicks is not common until advanced levels when the uke can be assumed capable of absorbing trickier falls. What are your thoughts regarding physical conditioning and aikido performance for beginners? Every beginner needs to come to class as regularly as possible and get in as many repetitions as possible. This will rapidly improve his or her physical conditioning. Without basic conditioning, it is difficult to practice well or to advance your skill level. If someone is overweight relative to his strength, he should do addtional running or other cardiovasular exercises to bring weight and strength into balance. If someone lacks adequate strength, practicing as often as possible and as vigorously as possible will result in an acceptable strength level over time. Skill comes only with repetitio
