The problem is nothing is finally useless... It all depends on how you think about things. Without the useless, we cannot find the useful. Without the empty space inside the cup, the cup is useless. What seems useless, like empty space, can be very useful if you know how to encapsulate it. Without making mistakes, we cannot progress to knowing what works. Everything, then, one might say, hinges on making lots-a-mistakes...
I have never understood how Aikido players and schools seem to ignore the actual life of Ueshiba. Before he developed Aikido he became highly skilled in jiu-jitsu, judo, sumo, several forms of karate. He submitted himself to freakish physical training on his farm and was renowned for being incredibly strong. AFTER all of this, he had his profound insights about Aikido. In my opinion, many people who practice martial arts for decades come to similar realizations. Things like: "do more with less." "Use technique, not brute force." These are principles Carlos Gracie would no doubt agree with. But these realizations are the crowning achievement of many years struggle and real application. Maybe we can't skip all of the steps Ueshiba took to get to enlightenment.
Hi I miss your post when submitted my opinion. Yes I also think Aikido was not intended to be a base martial art but an art to be trained once a person was an accomplished martial artist. In my country one of my classmates in Hung Gar had 4 years cross training in Aikido but had 8 years in Hungar and used to be an amateur boxer in this teen years. He could pull off the Aikido techiques in the middle of the fight but he already knew the dinamics of strike fighting and was aware of when to apply the techniques.
So aikido players would say - after he gained all that experience in those martial; arts, he put everything that he knew and made the "best" art - aikido. Why would he develop aikido if he thought it was worse than those arts he trained before?
@@basedpatriotLT I think you may have missed my point. Ueshiba was already transformed by all of the intense training he did prior. So, I'm not talking about the "techniques" of Aikido vs. some other style. I'm suggesting that the rigorous training he put himself through may be the reason HIS Aikido was incredible and a lot of other folks' Aikido is not.
"No limitation" meaning without boundary? No boundary of meaning means no meaning. Freedom without the responsibility of distinction or clarity is nonsensical. Duality, multi-parallel universes and/or unity are worth simultaneous consideration.
I trained in Aikido for some years, moved on to other things that suited me better. I met a lot of Senseis and Aikido practitioners who were amazing in their own right, within Aikido. Rokas is by far the bravest I've seen, in the sense that he's not afraid to discover that what says or does might be wrong. He's not afraid of putting his name and reputation on the line, as long at it helps him and other people move one step closer to being better. His quest for finding the truth and improving himself is what martial arts and combat sports are really about; being the best version of you there is to be. I have nothing but respect and admiration for you Rokas, wish you the very best on this new stage of your life.
This vid just popped up in my feed. It's kinda cool getting to visit your old videos and taking some bits of wisdom from them. Your change is quite astonishing from who you were then, to who you are now.
While I don't practice Aikido myself, I do respect this channel and the work you put behind it. I like how you put pride aside to acknowledge the flaws of the style and look for ways to improve upon it and modernize it. You have a smart head on your shoulders, so you have my respect!
Exciting stuff Rokas. I'm lucky enough that my Sensei is cool with my exploration outside our club. I always say that I'm not an Aikidoka, I'm a Martial Artist. And as Martial Artists, we must never stop questioning and never stop exploring.
Good on you brother. I watched your sparring videos and really appreciated that you analyzed it with real criticality. I am happy that you are realizing what you want and what you were not getting before. I believe there are good techniques in aikido that if combined properly with a solid well rounded game can become very practical. Looking forward to seeing you blaze that trail. Good luck!
Rokas, your gentleness, humility, and bravery is a gift to us all. Whatever you do, as a person and a fighter, please do not lose those qualities! Keep on seeking the truth! We are with you and it is an inspiration to us all to do the same in all walks of life!
Been loving your videos man... was keen to see how you reconciled traditional with pragmatic! I train in a traditional Chinese school that still has a focus on what works. It's an interesting balance... I like the traditional stuff (respect, greetings etc) but it's nice to know that we learn things for a practical reason too. If you ever want a holiday to Australia, come visit :)
The more you all publicise your journey, the more people will see different options and maybe view an alternative. Thanks all for your honest videos, I’ll be watching as usual with open eyes.
Your world? Lenny aren't you one of those senseis that never trains with anyone outside of your own dojo? Aren't you one of those senseis that never spars? Your world is nothing Like Rokas.
Sir...i cannot believe how much we think alike.I am a first degree black belt under Kobayashi sensei , but did quit aikido for over 2 years now and started my Bjj training the past year.All the things you said about aikido and the stillness of the ideas and the cult mentality,its amazing to know that someone else has been through the same things i am going through.Its a tough path to doubt what you ve been loving for many years,but it is essential to our growth as human beings to evolve.Good luck to your Journey!
I think you made a great move. As someone who definitely struggles with balancing the old and the new, practical or choreography, in my aikido training, I envy your decision! I look forward to a time when aikidoka from around the globe see you and your peers actions as the necessary step to transcend beyond the limits of the aikido today. I wish you luck in the future, I'm sure there will be many roadblocks and bumps in the road, but I'm just as sure that you'll overcome those obstacles. I hope we get to train together someday!
What I admire the most is not the actual things you're doing but the way you're doing it. Keeping your head over your shoulders, not beeing arrogant or anything and true sincerity. That needs balls and character!
you have made the right decision !! people evolve we adjust to stand still is to go backwards good luck and keep looking ahead many greetings from Ekitai
Good job, Rodas. You have found your way. I myself have quit Aikido, after 15 years at it. I realised some things quite similar to yours. Now I have discovered new things, and more practical ones too. I am doing MMA, that is muay thai and BJJ. All the best to your future.
One of the questions I've had is "Who's your Sensei, Rokas?" You've brought up some excellent questions when it comes to aspects of other arts in regards to Aikido, and I've often wondered about the answers you've gotten from your Sensei(s) with those questions. Looking forward to future videos, as they're kinda like mini chapters for a documentary on how a particular martial artist can grow and evolve.
You have my respect for questioning formal Akido and testing the practicalities of it and making the tough decision (and it is a tough decision) to start trail blazing, inspite of opposition, good luck with your adventures and keep pressure testing everything you think you know.
Rokas-san, we were independent for a while. I think it’s a natural evolution as you move up in the ranks. The decision to go back into an org was very straight forward for us, in that you can not progress in rank or knowledge of Aikido without a teacher/promotional system. And it becomes very hard to promote your students, as a dojo owner, that is a hard sell for new students. Plus I have found a teacher I respect and keeps the politics minimal which I appreciate. You can always rank yourself, but that goes down a path you can never come back from. But some have done so. I have struck a balance for now on practicing a traditional system of Aikido 75% of the time and practicing my own martial expression 25% of the time. That 25% of time is carved out for me and my students to explore other martial arts, other methods and strategies, and I figure out how to adapt them WITH my students. Mostly fundamentals in BJJ, boxing, and kickboxing, but we’ll also bring in instructors to teach us FMA, Wing Chun, and JKD. The students like the balance between mastering a system, and learning about other systems they might not want to fully commit to. Watch Roy Harris, or hell, I really think you would enjoy Bruce Lee’s Tao of Jeet Kune Do. It’s fundamentally one of the best books on martial philosophy and favors no one style. It’s a very objective approach to martial arts. Explore the martial art landscape and come up with something to call your own. Doesn’t need to be MMA or TMA....it’s all about your ultimate goals.
Hi Rokus. I admire your search for truth in the practicality and perfection of aikido in relation to its place in the martial arts and life. If your goal by separation is peace then you will continue to grow. Following the path God wants us all to follow. O sensei through prayer and hard work followed a path to peace. What a wonderful man and I believe you will exercise and follow the same path. May God bless you! I rank 1st Kyu Shotokan karate and not ranked yet in Aikido (3 summers practice). Dr. Schelb
What you've said is why I'm quitting the fitness industry. Thanks for your courage. It's never easy to go against the grain; but the end results are oh so rewarding.
Thank you for sharing a very personal decision. I quit Aikido as well. Growing up in New York and been in a number of street fights, no choice when you are attacked and not a fast runner; this idea of trying not to harm an attacher may be good in theory; but when someone is trying to smash your head with a rock, not so much. I did an Aikido instructor once whose skill was to be reckoned with; but my job took elsewhere. I have watched your struggle for a year and appreciate all that you have shared. Also; I like MOBAT's comment as well as everyone else's.
great points all around. this is a tough time for aikido -- lots of competition in the marketplace. And fresh approaches are necessary to keep it going.
You are truly free, understand that everything is usful now.. I know that experience had to be hard for you.. Leaving an intimate thing like a Dojo, can make you feel very lonely... Almoast like you betrayed them.. I wish you well on your journey my friend One thing I will say... Remember how chaotic combat is. Test what you do against that.. What is uncontrolled* and you will see how to manipulate what is controlled better. Good luck with the system you create.
best of luck ive studied under 2 senseiin my time and its been on and off props to u for following a vision. mold it as u see fit and hope to see where it takes u. i certainly hope to one day meet u and train with u
Aikido is something beyond just great martial art. It has this particle of greatness, however, it has boundaries which are so static. I respect your decision, and cheer you up to continue your magnificent "way of seeking answers". This is enlightenment. You are not alone. After aikido i started to experiment with Krav Maga and BJJ. There is so much that aikidoka is missing without cross training. Take care, don't stop!
I train in many different martial arts, and i am always blending them with my Aikido. Aikido must be open to new ideas to better the art itself. You are on the right track, please continue to share you ideas.
I say do what you feel is best man. Your a free man. If you want to go on to bigger, better things than go for it. We only have so much time in our lives. I just hope you continue to make your TH-cam videos. I don't mind what you do for videos either. I am one of your fans, and I am totally here for you.
I think you made the right decision. Either you would have been pressured to dismiss what you are discovering and toe the line, or you would have been pushed out and smeared or "disappeared." Aikido has repeatedly done the latter to some of its most important proponents, essentially wiping them from the history of the art on the basis of differences in practice and personality.
Good or bad is how it feels to you. It is your decision! But in my opinion, i think you made a great choice! I myself made a similar choice a year ago and am (what i call) an Aikido Ronin. And can develop my own Aikido as i see it without restrictions from any organisation what so ever! I welcome you as a fellow Ronin and wish you a great journey on this new way (Do)!
I dont see this as a rant but letting go of baggage and moving on. I really feel you are making the correct decisions which must on the one hand be difficult however you will end up a much stronger martial artist. I look forward to your next video and journey :)
Sensei Peter Shapiro in Switzerland once commented that Aikido teaches us to act from love rather than fear. Most of the time, this isn't a big challenge. It's the difficult times that test whether fear or love will step forward to guide our actions; it's the difficult times that offer an opportunity for growth. I appreciate that, in the midst of differences and power struggles, you are moving forward courageously from a place of integrity... that you are keeping centered and open to a higher direction, to a higher connection. It will appear.
Hello Rokas! I am an MMA practitioner who has always had a bizarre interest in aikido. I feel like there are practical skills to be learned from aikido. Because of the attitudes in the aikido community regarding cross-training in "modern" or "sport" martial arts, I feel reluctant to train at a dojo (also I am broke at the moment.) Would it be prudent to find open minded aikidoka to train with?
Yes, but find a black belt if you can. Aikido is difficult to master and the principles are easy to explain but hard to understand. I'm sure you can learn a lot about anticipation, evasion and "absorbing" attacks, also some grappling principles, but I don't know how much of the actual techniques can be translated in mma, as they are developed with samurais in mind
+Antonio Lonigro I'm not trying to adapt aikido for MMA (though I believe that is a worthy goal.) I have moved away from practicing for sport and now want to practice for self defence reasons (though, I still believe intensely in the utility of how people in so called "sport" arts train.) Also, thank you for your acknowledgment Sensei Chawkin! ;) I will probably take you up in your offer someday!
Many good points! I would LOVE for you to come to a seminar with Shishiya sensei! He always say that "aikido is not magic, only logic" and always try to develop the techniques further, and if someone on the tatami comes up with a solution, sensei analyzes it and more often than not we incorporate it after a good constructive discussion. =)
My opinion is that depends on what someone's goals are. If you want to defend your life against random violence; one should definitely look for practical and realistic teaching. On the other side, martial arts give you graciouness, mind control, elegancy, it teaches you how to become a better self-sustained person, how to eat better, how to control your impulses and a whole lot of other benefits. Defending someone's life is something ugly, martial arts is something beautiful. They're totally different products; besides the fact that we use our bodies as instruments.
u dont need to be in a cult martial art to get "graciousness, mind control, mental strength" mma covers all of that AND also teaches u to fight sooo... try again buddy.. and wtf do u mean defending someones life is ugly. u know what ugly? being raped, kidnapped, robbed, killed and never being able to see ur family again. thats ugly. u know what beautiful? being able to use skills and techniques that can work against any human in the world regardless of size. doing some real life bruce lee shit. thats beauty
What I meant by 'ugly' is that a street fight in order to defend one's life is never a beautiful sight. We live in a wild world which is very violent and the martial arts concentrate on the beauty of human body coordinated movements. In my opinion MMA is more like a high impact sport, or possibly self-defense which is great and very practical. Aikido I would consider an actual art.
lol. this comment betrays an absolute lack of any appreciation for what elegance is when applied to the human body. anyone who is untrained, ungracious, unrefined can dance between two positions unobstructed. elegance in this context is when despite high speeds, or high powers, which really test the limits of human coordination someone can make an action look effortless. when I watch a faultless KO or choke, I see elegance. when i see aikido i see clumsy children
in Arabic there is a saying: "knowing your own wrong is the great honor" . I am glad you moved on, you are one courageous man, I like the direction you are taking, this will be a turning point. by the way, i think your camera mic was not muted when ever exported the video :D hence there two sound sources
Congrats your eyes have been opened. I broke away from my organization 18 years and it was the best thing I did for my academy. Always remember your martial art techniques needs to be pressure tested in real sparring. 👍wish you the best in your journey!
I applaud you for your pursuit of growth at the cost of comfort or security by leaving your dojo of 10 years. I wish you the best and keep up the great work.
Rokas I'm proud you found the courage to do what you felt you needed to do. This is why I created the Freestyle TKD Federation. TKD is a highly effective martial art, but only if it is properly practiced and applied. I could not stick with the current organizations that have ruined TKD.
Well done, mate. I've been part of a traditional organisation for 13 years. Just managed to break free last year. It's not like I rejected everything I've learned, but rather I used my previous experience as a base, then I built upon it with things I learned cross-training with other disciplines modern or otherwise. The result may not be as beautiful but it's functional. Rough and imperfect but functional.... but then again, perfection in the martial arts is not a destination, it's an ongoing process. And if that journey of perfection is your goal, sometimes, tradition---- especially the ones that make no sense but no one has the guts to question---- do become a hindrance more than a support. I fully agree with your points. Growth will manifest itself in your life as you continue.
Every martial art had developed from splitting off from their parent house or organization, much like how BJJ was a split from Kano Judo, how Mas Oyama split from Shotokan and Goju Ryu, after japanese had oringally considered his fighting too violent, and even Morihei Ueshiba himself split himself off from Daito Ryu Aikijujutsu.
you should look up Dan "The Wolfman" Theodore, he's an MMA coach who used to train Aikido and discovered how to use it effectively in full contact fighting.
Making the decision to go independent - or not - upon reaching some level of competence is intensely personal, and no one else is truly qualified to judge which way is best for you. I have seen or experienced it (as the case may be) in different contexts: martial arts, spiritual organizations, social clubs, political parties and movements, etc. In a way, it's traditional... while some choose to stay with organizations and teachers, some start a new group or line, especially when they have something different to contribute to their field. I wish you the very best in this development, and look forward to seeing what comes of it.
Really cool decision my friend, not alot of people can see the light or just refuse too or just way too stubborn. Bruce Lee was in the same road before he said enough is enough and wanted to move beyond Wing Chun and into a more practical stance.
I can imagine it was a tough decision. Sometimes you need to break with traditions to move on to the next step in evolution and adapt, especially when it turns out something doesn't work anymore because zeitgeist has changed. Looking forward to see your work. Wish you all the best!
I love your videos! I also love Lenny Sly Sensei’s videos! If your organization was holding you back then good riddance! It’s their loss! #AlwaysForward
I applaud your efforts my friend. I went from Tae Kwon do years ago to kickboxing & BJJ & wrestling. Having a questioning mind is the best way onto personal exploration. Get rid of the baggage & free your mind. If it doesn’t make sense get rid of it and move on.
What you are going through is far from unique, to Aikido, to martial arts to anything. Anytime you push the boundries, anytime you venture into uncharted territory, virtually by deffinition it means you will be setting out on your own path. There are no teachers, no orginizations, no maps for these territories. But this is what drives innovation, you become the teacher, you create the organization, you draw the maps. If you're goal is to modernize Aikido, by necessity that means your time is to be spent training in modern martial arts, rather than continuing to train that which you are attempting to evolve beyond. It's really increadible to see the progress you've made and the reception it's gotten so far. I think a lot of people thought the direction you were going in was to eventually move away from Aikido entirely, realizing now that it doesn't work, confirming what they always believed to be the case. But now that you've been pressure testing the art, the same skeptics are now starting to question their original assumptions about Aikido, seeing it's potential and honestly wondering if this might actually work after all if trained right. Like I've said before I think more important than modern grappling arts, are modern striking arts to make Aikido works, as it is a stand up grappling art (obviously not negating the necessity of having a solid modern ground game). When you're ready I can't wait to see the rematch for your original viral sparring video, when the world will finally get to see true Aikido in action.
I left the national federation for much the same reasons. I am now under a teacher in the UK who encourages us to explore and inquire what aikido means to us. Because of that new found freedom we draw from Chinese and Russian martial arts to inform the aikido practice.As a result our classes are enjoyable and interesting. What a refreshing change from the stifling atmosphere of our previous dojo.
In one aikido training I had a guy from another dojo came and trained with us.. he did some technique a bit different and my trainer stopped him and asked him to do it OUR way, the other guy persisted to work his way and my trainer kicked him out... so much about change and being in harmony... I'm in BJJ now and couldn't be happier...
It's all cool bro. You've already worked with Sensei Sly before. Man just keep going man. Sly Sensei will always be fair, tough, but fair. If you love Aikido, then keep practicing and growning the art.
Hello, I agree with the problems of organizations, Especially the " SENSEI said that".. "no question to sensei". I am an Aikidoka and a Jiu JItsu player too. I teach aikido and I explain is a traditional martial art, is like to learn Latin. I still in an organization I disagree with a lot of their stuff but i don't let this affect me. Just be careful if you create a new organization and you become the new sensei.
Hi, take a look on Iwama shin shin aikishurenkai - Iwama style - in fact the only Aikido thats working for me. Morihiro Saito often spoke on effectiveness - so does his son......our headmaster....BJJ is strong! I do practise self defence too - and my understanding in aikido is growing therefor....
I think you coming to this decision only means you are ready for the next level of martial training. "There are many paths up the mountain of Budo." Some paths you must walk alone in order to achieve a higher, more profound learning and understanding. One of the major goals of martial arts is to continuously seek the truth behind every technique. The journey to perfection is never-ending but continuously enlightening. Regardless of how many tests you have taken, or promotions you have earned... this next phase is true advancement. Congratulations.
Why are some schools against cross training entirely? Also, really enjoy watching your videos. Keep it up, this is a topic I have always been interested in. This is a topic a lot of modern martial artists are interested in as well.
I've studied Aikido and I am now studying Ashihara Karate. There are many similarities between the two with the latter obviously emphasising atemi and kicks. I feel a lot more confident using my fists and feet now which would obviously be used in a practical environment. However I do think that Aikido has a lot going for it in terms of spatial awareness, centring and the use of locks, momentum and learning how to fall.
There may be a lot of paradoxes. You quitted as a response to a need of adaptation; that is ability to flow, and that is in full accordance to basic philosophies in traditional MA and the art of war applied to life and conflict... You're just doing it right, so glad to know.
Hello I used to practice Aikido under Hombu Dojo curriculum. I practiced for 10 year and got a Shodan. I left Aikido 15 years ago due to family life obligation. I returned to martial arts a few years ago and now are exploring different styles, e.g. Tai Chi, Wudang, Wushu, May Thai, etc. I thought about getting back to Aikido, but after exploring about other styles, I find that it would not be practical. For now, the only belt I’d like is a leather one holding up my ripped jean. Enough about me. My question is when you left Aikido and started posting your view about Aikido, have you ever gotten any negative back lash from Aikido sensei? Thank you.
It's a tough choice. One I made about ten years ago, for a few different reasons. There are a few challenges. Rank, recognition. Do you leave it behind, self promote (I never have). Lots of choices... and you do feel along a lot. Some times it's really difficult to be king. Good luck.
Adapt what is useful, reject what is useless, and add what is specifically your own. ~Bruce Lee
The problem is nothing is finally useless... It all depends on how you think about things. Without the useless, we cannot find the useful. Without the empty space inside the cup, the cup is useless. What seems useless, like empty space, can be very useful if you know how to encapsulate it. Without making mistakes, we cannot progress to knowing what works. Everything, then, one might say, hinges on making lots-a-mistakes...
Troy Timmer reject simply typing Bruce Lee quotes on fighting videos for likes and add your own thoughts
Keni Lynch first step to success is failure. Without failure you cannot learn.
You are right in what you say
@@ianmcabee8036 on the contrary if the quote is useful then it is useful, doesnt matter where it comes from... (Paraphrase) b. lee
I have never understood how Aikido players and schools seem to ignore the actual life of Ueshiba. Before he developed Aikido he became highly skilled in jiu-jitsu, judo, sumo, several forms of karate. He submitted himself to freakish physical training on his farm and was renowned for being incredibly strong. AFTER all of this, he had his profound insights about Aikido.
In my opinion, many people who practice martial arts for decades come to similar realizations. Things like: "do more with less." "Use technique, not brute force." These are principles Carlos Gracie would no doubt agree with. But these realizations are the crowning achievement of many years struggle and real application. Maybe we can't skip all of the steps Ueshiba took to get to enlightenment.
Hi I miss your post when submitted my opinion. Yes I also think Aikido was not intended to be a base martial art but an art to be trained once a person was an accomplished martial artist. In my country one of my classmates in Hung Gar had 4 years cross training in Aikido but had 8 years in Hungar and used to be an amateur boxer in this teen years. He could pull off the Aikido techiques in the middle of the fight but he already knew the dinamics of strike fighting and was aware of when to apply the techniques.
@@allopez8563 so it's an advanced martial art that ones learns only after mastering the arts of violence?
@@jonathanthompson592 , Ueshiba became enamored with the omoto religion and got sick of fighting(as all young men do the older they get)
So aikido players would say - after he gained all that experience in those martial; arts, he put everything that he knew and made the "best" art - aikido. Why would he develop aikido if he thought it was worse than those arts he trained before?
@@basedpatriotLT I think you may have missed my point. Ueshiba was already transformed by all of the intense training he did prior. So, I'm not talking about the "techniques" of Aikido vs. some other style. I'm suggesting that the rigorous training he put himself through may be the reason HIS Aikido was incredible and a lot of other folks' Aikido is not.
Now you have no limitation, what a fantastic place to be in, We are really looking forward to seeing what you can do
Thank you! Yes, Aikido has too limitations in itself, I am sure without limitations we will do amazing things all together!
You guys should do a seminar together
I'll tell you a secret... We will, in April in Lithuania :) Planning to announce it in the next two weeks!
AikidoSiauliai bro.... badass. :)
"No limitation" meaning without boundary? No boundary of meaning means no meaning. Freedom without the responsibility of distinction or clarity is nonsensical. Duality, multi-parallel universes and/or unity are worth simultaneous consideration.
I hear you. We did the same thing a while ago. We need the freedom to explore.
Thank you Azu! It does seem the path that people who really want the answer take eventually
I trained in Aikido for some years, moved on to other things that suited me better. I met a lot of Senseis and Aikido practitioners who were amazing in their own right, within Aikido.
Rokas is by far the bravest I've seen, in the sense that he's not afraid to discover that what says or does might be wrong. He's not afraid of putting his name and reputation on the line, as long at it helps him and other people move one step closer to being better.
His quest for finding the truth and improving himself is what martial arts and combat sports are really about; being the best version of you there is to be.
I have nothing but respect and admiration for you Rokas, wish you the very best on this new stage of your life.
Thank You for your honesty. I find all of your videos very helpful and being an older student of Aikido your explanations of techniques are helpful.
This vid just popped up in my feed. It's kinda cool getting to visit your old videos and taking some bits of wisdom from them. Your change is quite astonishing from who you were then, to who you are now.
Congratulations on your new season of life! Much respect for your drive to find what works and your humble honesty in doing so.
While I don't practice Aikido myself, I do respect this channel and the work you put behind it. I like how you put pride aside to acknowledge the flaws of the style and look for ways to improve upon it and modernize it. You have a smart head on your shoulders, so you have my respect!
Great vid Roka. I'm excited to see where your path takes you. Be sure to keep us updated on your progress.
Man. I like how honest this guy is.
Exciting stuff Rokas. I'm lucky enough that my Sensei is cool with my exploration outside our club. I always say that I'm not an Aikidoka, I'm a Martial Artist. And as Martial Artists, we must never stop questioning and never stop exploring.
Bravo Rocas!!!Go on like this !!This is a matter of being a warrior in this world or not!God bless you.You are not alone in this path.
Good on you brother. I watched your sparring videos and really appreciated that you analyzed it with real criticality. I am happy that you are realizing what you want and what you were not getting before. I believe there are good techniques in aikido that if combined properly with a solid well rounded game can become very practical. Looking forward to seeing you blaze that trail. Good luck!
Rokas, your gentleness, humility, and bravery is a gift to us all. Whatever you do, as a person and a fighter, please do not lose those qualities!
Keep on seeking the truth! We are with you and it is an inspiration to us all to do the same in all walks of life!
I see you’ve picked Batman as your new sensei! Good choice!
Nah he got to learn from the best aikido master: steven seagal
Lol :D Yes, I agree!
Ah, you think darkness is your ally?
You are an impressive dude. Keep pushing the limits of knowledge, and bring us on your journey :D
Thank you!
Been loving your videos man... was keen to see how you reconciled traditional with pragmatic! I train in a traditional Chinese school that still has a focus on what works. It's an interesting balance... I like the traditional stuff (respect, greetings etc) but it's nice to know that we learn things for a practical reason too. If you ever want a holiday to Australia, come visit :)
Congratulations, welcome to my world Rokus.
Lenny~
THE ROGUE WARRIORS - Where Warriors are FORGED great to hear from you Lenny.
The more you all publicise your journey, the more people will see different options and maybe view an alternative. Thanks all for your honest videos, I’ll be watching as usual with open eyes.
Thank you Lenny! And yes, this world of ours is growing!
Oh shit, it's Lenny!
Your world? Lenny aren't you one of those senseis that never trains with anyone outside of your own dojo? Aren't you one of those senseis that never spars? Your world is nothing Like Rokas.
Sir...i cannot believe how much we think alike.I am a first degree black belt under Kobayashi sensei , but did quit aikido for over 2 years now and started my Bjj training the past year.All the things you said about aikido and the stillness of the ideas and the cult mentality,its amazing to know that someone else has been through the same things i am going through.Its a tough path to doubt what you ve been loving for many years,but it is essential to our growth as human beings to evolve.Good luck to your Journey!
Thanks. As scary as it is, it seems to be the experience of many people, that's why it's time to do something about it :) Glad to hear from you.
Great job with those videos,thanks for your work and for your reply.Oss
I think you made a great move. As someone who definitely struggles with balancing the old and the new, practical or choreography, in my aikido training, I envy your decision! I look forward to a time when aikidoka from around the globe see you and your peers actions as the necessary step to transcend beyond the limits of the aikido today. I wish you luck in the future, I'm sure there will be many roadblocks and bumps in the road, but I'm just as sure that you'll overcome those obstacles. I hope we get to train together someday!
What I admire the most is not the actual things you're doing but the way you're doing it. Keeping your head over your shoulders, not beeing arrogant or anything and true sincerity. That needs balls and character!
I have been watching your videos for about 6 months. The title of this video comes as no surprise :) Job well done all on your videos too.
you have made the right decision !!
people evolve we adjust to stand still is to go backwards
good luck and keep looking ahead
many greetings from Ekitai
Congratulatios on your big move. Keep exploring
I'm so curious about what's next for you!
Good job, Rodas. You have found your way. I myself have quit Aikido, after 15 years at it.
I realised some things quite similar to yours. Now I have discovered new things, and more practical ones too. I am doing MMA, that is muay thai and BJJ. All the best to your future.
Congrats, big step. I have been following you since your first sparring with the mma guy. I am impressed by your journey.
One of the questions I've had is "Who's your Sensei, Rokas?" You've brought up some excellent questions when it comes to aspects of other arts in regards to Aikido, and I've often wondered about the answers you've gotten from your Sensei(s) with those questions. Looking forward to future videos, as they're kinda like mini chapters for a documentary on how a particular martial artist can grow and evolve.
You have my respect for questioning formal Akido and testing the practicalities of it and making the tough decision (and it is a tough decision) to start trail blazing, inspite of opposition, good luck with your adventures and keep pressure testing everything you think you know.
Rokas-san, we were independent for a while. I think it’s a natural evolution as you move up in the ranks. The decision to go back into an org was very straight forward for us, in that you can not progress in rank or knowledge of Aikido without a teacher/promotional system. And it becomes very hard to promote your students, as a dojo owner, that is a hard sell for new students. Plus I have found a teacher I respect and keeps the politics minimal which I appreciate.
You can always rank yourself, but that goes down a path you can never come back from. But some have done so. I have struck a balance for now on practicing a traditional system of Aikido 75% of the time and practicing my own martial expression 25% of the time. That 25% of time is carved out for me and my students to explore other martial arts, other methods and strategies, and I figure out how to adapt them WITH my students. Mostly fundamentals in BJJ, boxing, and kickboxing, but we’ll also bring in instructors to teach us FMA, Wing Chun, and JKD.
The students like the balance between mastering a system, and learning about other systems they might not want to fully commit to. Watch Roy Harris, or hell, I really think you would enjoy Bruce Lee’s Tao of Jeet Kune Do. It’s fundamentally one of the best books on martial philosophy and favors no one style. It’s a very objective approach to martial arts. Explore the martial art landscape and come up with something to call your own. Doesn’t need to be MMA or TMA....it’s all about your ultimate goals.
I have had the same journey. Returning to the source after many years.
Hi Rokus. I admire your search for truth in the practicality and perfection of aikido in relation to its place in the martial arts and life. If your goal by separation is peace then you will continue to grow. Following the path God wants us all to follow. O sensei through prayer and hard work followed a path to peace. What a wonderful man and I believe you will exercise and follow the same path. May God bless you! I rank 1st Kyu Shotokan karate and not ranked yet in Aikido (3 summers practice). Dr. Schelb
What you've said is why I'm quitting the fitness industry. Thanks for your courage. It's never easy to go against the grain; but the end results are oh so rewarding.
I totally understand why you are quitting the fitness industry. I can see the similar patterns
Thank you for sharing a very personal decision. I quit Aikido as well. Growing up in New York and been in a number of street fights, no choice when you are attacked and not a fast runner; this idea of trying not to harm an attacher may be good in theory; but when someone is trying to smash your head with a rock, not so much. I did an Aikido instructor once whose skill was to be reckoned with; but my job took elsewhere. I have watched your struggle for a year and appreciate all that you have shared. Also; I like MOBAT's comment as well as everyone else's.
great points all around. this is a tough time for aikido -- lots of competition in the marketplace. And fresh approaches are necessary to keep it going.
You are truly free, understand that everything is usful now.. I know that experience had to be hard for you.. Leaving an intimate thing like a Dojo, can make you feel very lonely... Almoast like you betrayed them.. I wish you well on your journey my friend
One thing I will say... Remember how chaotic combat is. Test what you do against that.. What is uncontrolled* and you will see how to manipulate what is controlled better. Good luck with the system you create.
best of luck ive studied under 2 senseiin my time and its been on and off props to u for following a vision. mold it as u see fit and hope to see where it takes u. i certainly hope to one day meet u and train with u
Aikido is something beyond just great martial art. It has this particle of greatness, however, it has boundaries which are so static. I respect your decision, and cheer you up to continue your magnificent "way of seeking answers". This is enlightenment. You are not alone. After aikido i started to experiment with Krav Maga and BJJ. There is so much that aikidoka is missing without cross training. Take care, don't stop!
I train in many different martial arts, and i am always blending them with my Aikido. Aikido must be open to new ideas to better the art itself. You are on the right track, please continue to share you ideas.
Geezzz it's about time!!
I say do what you feel is best man. Your a free man. If you want to go on to bigger, better things than go for it. We only have so much time in our lives. I just hope you continue to make your TH-cam videos. I don't mind what you do for videos either. I am one of your fans, and I am totally here for you.
You will always be a great master and highly respected. Wish you the best.
very brave. I like your videos and I appreciate your frank honesty.
I think you made the right decision. Either you would have been pressured to dismiss what you are discovering and toe the line, or you would have been pushed out and smeared or "disappeared." Aikido has repeatedly done the latter to some of its most important proponents, essentially wiping them from the history of the art on the basis of differences in practice and personality.
Good or bad is how it feels to you.
It is your decision! But in my opinion, i think you made a great choice!
I myself made a similar choice a year ago and am (what i call) an Aikido Ronin. And can develop my own Aikido as i see it without restrictions from any organisation what so ever!
I welcome you as a fellow Ronin and wish you a great journey on this new way (Do)!
I really respect your free and responsible search for truth and meaning.
I dont see this as a rant but letting go of baggage and moving on. I really feel you are making the correct decisions which must on the one hand be difficult however you will end up a much stronger martial artist. I look forward to your next video and journey :)
Nice one brother. No worries, we have your back.
Best of luck bro, scary feeling leaving an organization. You'll do great and follow what you think is best.
Take a look at Yoshinkan and Shodokan for some ideas.
Rokus, you did the best thing you could have done! Now you can make your Aikido fly and soar like an eagle 🦅 Congratulations 🎉🎈🎊🍾
Thank you
Sensei Peter Shapiro in Switzerland once commented that Aikido teaches us to act from love rather than fear. Most of the time, this isn't a big challenge. It's the difficult times that test whether fear or love will step forward to guide our actions; it's the difficult times that offer an opportunity for growth. I appreciate that, in the midst of differences and power struggles, you are moving forward courageously from a place of integrity... that you are keeping centered and open to a higher direction, to a higher connection. It will appear.
Hello Rokas! I am an MMA practitioner who has always had a bizarre interest in aikido. I feel like there are practical skills to be learned from aikido. Because of the attitudes in the aikido community regarding cross-training in "modern" or "sport" martial arts, I feel reluctant to train at a dojo (also I am broke at the moment.) Would it be prudent to find open minded aikidoka to train with?
That is s good initiative, where do you live?
Canada, in Calgary.
For what it's worth, you are welcome in Santa Barbara any time. I appreciate your support through the years!
Yes, but find a black belt if you can. Aikido is difficult to master and the principles are easy to explain but hard to understand. I'm sure you can learn a lot about anticipation, evasion and "absorbing" attacks, also some grappling principles, but I don't know how much of the actual techniques can be translated in mma, as they are developed with samurais in mind
+Antonio Lonigro I'm not trying to adapt aikido for MMA (though I believe that is a worthy goal.) I have moved away from practicing for sport and now want to practice for self defence reasons (though, I still believe intensely in the utility of how people in so called "sport" arts train.)
Also, thank you for your acknowledgment Sensei Chawkin! ;)
I will probably take you up in your offer someday!
I like you bro, you have good energy and good heart. If I can help, I'm here, we do all reality training with roots in MMA
Many good points! I would LOVE for you to come to a seminar with Shishiya sensei! He always say that "aikido is not magic, only logic" and always try to develop the techniques further, and if someone on the tatami comes up with a solution, sensei analyzes it and more often than not we incorporate it after a good constructive discussion. =)
Nothing but respect to you!
My opinion is that depends on what someone's goals are. If you want to defend your life against random violence; one should definitely look for practical and realistic teaching. On the other side, martial arts give you graciouness, mind control, elegancy, it teaches you how to become a better self-sustained person, how to eat better, how to control your impulses and a whole lot of other benefits. Defending someone's life is something ugly, martial arts is something beautiful. They're totally different products; besides the fact that we use our bodies as instruments.
Jack McDouglas,
MMA covered everything that you have just said. Of course, there is also others as well.
u dont need to be in a cult martial art to get "graciousness, mind control, mental strength" mma covers all of that AND also teaches u to fight sooo... try again buddy.. and wtf do u mean defending someones life is ugly. u know what ugly? being raped, kidnapped, robbed, killed and never being able to see ur family again. thats ugly. u know what beautiful? being able to use skills and techniques that can work against any human in the world regardless of size. doing some real life bruce lee shit. thats beauty
What I meant by 'ugly' is that a street fight in order to defend one's life is never a beautiful sight. We live in a wild world which is very violent and the martial arts concentrate on the beauty of human body coordinated movements. In my opinion MMA is more like a high impact sport, or possibly self-defense which is great and very practical. Aikido I would consider an actual art.
Jack McDouglas,
Aikido is an art. Not martial. Just an art. That i agree with you.
lol. this comment betrays an absolute lack of any appreciation for what elegance is when applied to the human body.
anyone who is untrained, ungracious, unrefined can dance between two positions unobstructed.
elegance in this context is when despite high speeds, or high powers, which really test the limits of human coordination someone can make an action look effortless.
when I watch a faultless KO or choke, I see elegance. when i see aikido i see clumsy children
in Arabic there is a saying: "knowing your own wrong is the great honor" . I am glad you moved on, you are one courageous man, I like the direction you are taking, this will be a turning point. by the way, i think your camera mic was not muted when ever exported the video :D hence there two sound sources
Your a honest, and courageous individual .
Congrats your eyes have been opened. I broke away from my organization 18 years and it was the best thing I did for my academy. Always remember your martial art techniques needs to be pressure tested in real sparring. 👍wish you the best in your journey!
I applaud you for your pursuit of growth at the cost of comfort or security by leaving your dojo of 10 years. I wish you the best and keep up the great work.
I salute your courage!
Rokas I'm proud you found the courage to do what you felt you needed to do. This is why I created the Freestyle TKD Federation. TKD is a highly effective martial art, but only if it is properly practiced and applied. I could not stick with the current organizations that have ruined TKD.
Well done, mate. I've been part of a traditional organisation for 13 years. Just managed to break free last year. It's not like I rejected everything I've learned, but rather I used my previous experience as a base, then I built upon it with things I learned cross-training with other disciplines modern or otherwise. The result may not be as beautiful but it's functional. Rough and imperfect but functional.... but then again, perfection in the martial arts is not a destination, it's an ongoing process. And if that journey of perfection is your goal, sometimes, tradition---- especially the ones that make no sense but no one has the guts to question---- do become a hindrance more than a support. I fully agree with your points. Growth will manifest itself in your life as you continue.
Every martial art had developed from splitting off from their parent house or organization, much like how BJJ was a split from Kano Judo, how Mas Oyama split from Shotokan and Goju Ryu, after japanese had oringally considered his fighting too violent, and even Morihei Ueshiba himself split himself off from Daito Ryu Aikijujutsu.
you should look up Dan "The Wolfman" Theodore, he's an MMA coach who used to train Aikido and discovered how to use it effectively in full contact fighting.
Making the decision to go independent - or not - upon reaching some level of competence is intensely personal, and no one else is truly qualified to judge which way is best for you. I have seen or experienced it (as the case may be) in different contexts: martial arts, spiritual organizations, social clubs, political parties and movements, etc. In a way, it's traditional... while some choose to stay with organizations and teachers, some start a new group or line, especially when they have something different to contribute to their field.
I wish you the very best in this development, and look forward to seeing what comes of it.
Really cool decision my friend, not alot of people can see the light or just refuse too or just way too stubborn. Bruce Lee was in the same road before he said enough is enough and wanted to move beyond Wing Chun and into a more practical stance.
Enjoyed this video thank you.
Thank you
I believe you are on the right track
I can imagine it was a tough decision. Sometimes you need to break with traditions to move on to the next step in evolution and adapt, especially when it turns out something doesn't work anymore because zeitgeist has changed. Looking forward to see your work. Wish you all the best!
I love your videos! I also love Lenny Sly Sensei’s videos! If your organization was holding you back then good riddance! It’s their loss! #AlwaysForward
I applaud your efforts my friend. I went from Tae Kwon do years ago to kickboxing & BJJ & wrestling. Having a questioning mind is the best way onto personal exploration. Get rid of the baggage & free your mind. If it doesn’t make sense get rid of it and move on.
What you are going through is far from unique, to Aikido, to martial arts to anything. Anytime you push the boundries, anytime you venture into uncharted territory, virtually by deffinition it means you will be setting out on your own path. There are no teachers, no orginizations, no maps for these territories. But this is what drives innovation, you become the teacher, you create the organization, you draw the maps. If you're goal is to modernize Aikido, by necessity that means your time is to be spent training in modern martial arts, rather than continuing to train that which you are attempting to evolve beyond.
It's really increadible to see the progress you've made and the reception it's gotten so far. I think a lot of people thought the direction you were going in was to eventually move away from Aikido entirely, realizing now that it doesn't work, confirming what they always believed to be the case. But now that you've been pressure testing the art, the same skeptics are now starting to question their original assumptions about Aikido, seeing it's potential and honestly wondering if this might actually work after all if trained right.
Like I've said before I think more important than modern grappling arts, are modern striking arts to make Aikido works, as it is a stand up grappling art (obviously not negating the necessity of having a solid modern ground game). When you're ready I can't wait to see the rematch for your original viral sparring video, when the world will finally get to see true Aikido in action.
I left the national federation for much the same reasons. I am now under a teacher in the UK who encourages us to explore and inquire what aikido means to us. Because of that new found freedom we draw from Chinese and Russian martial arts to inform the aikido practice.As a result our classes are enjoyable and interesting. What a refreshing change from the stifling atmosphere of our previous dojo.
In one aikido training I had a guy from another dojo came and trained with us.. he did some technique a bit different and my trainer stopped him and asked him to do it OUR way, the other guy persisted to work his way and my trainer kicked him out... so much about change and being in harmony... I'm in BJJ now and couldn't be happier...
It's all cool bro. You've already worked with Sensei Sly before. Man just keep going man. Sly Sensei will always be fair, tough, but fair. If you love Aikido, then keep practicing and growning the art.
Enjoy the journey... Excited for you. From what I have seen in your videos, I would wager you would enjoy BJJ.
I am enjoying BJJ :) Did it for a few months and will be coming back to it tomorrow
I approve this video.
You’re not alone on this journey
Hello, I agree with the problems of organizations, Especially the " SENSEI said that".. "no question to sensei". I am an Aikidoka and a Jiu JItsu player too. I teach aikido and I explain is a traditional martial art, is like to learn Latin. I still in an organization I disagree with a lot of their stuff but i don't let this affect me. Just be careful if you create a new organization and you become the new sensei.
Good points. Thanks
Hi,
take a look on Iwama shin shin aikishurenkai - Iwama style - in fact the only Aikido thats working for me.
Morihiro Saito often spoke on effectiveness - so does his son......our headmaster....BJJ is strong!
I do practise self defence too - and my understanding in aikido is growing therefor....
I think you coming to this decision only means you are ready for the next level of martial training. "There are many paths up the mountain of Budo." Some paths you must walk alone in order to achieve a higher, more profound learning and understanding. One of the major goals of martial arts is to continuously seek the truth behind every technique. The journey to perfection is never-ending but continuously enlightening. Regardless of how many tests you have taken, or promotions you have earned... this next phase is true advancement. Congratulations.
it is a good decision to find your own path if one presents itself to you.
Respect to you buddy
Good shit, Rokas. OSS
Now Aikido can grow and show its true potential. Congratulations on your new journey. The Rabbit Hole is endless.
Goodluck!
wish you best for your future martial arts study
Why are some schools against cross training entirely?
Also, really enjoy watching your videos. Keep it up, this is a topic I have always been interested in. This is a topic a lot of modern martial artists are interested in as well.
Well done!
Good for you. I will follow
This guy seems super humble and nice
I've studied Aikido and I am now studying Ashihara Karate. There are many similarities between the two with the latter obviously emphasising atemi and kicks. I feel a lot more confident using my fists and feet now which would obviously be used in a practical environment. However I do think that Aikido has a lot going for it in terms of spatial awareness, centring and the use of locks, momentum and learning how to fall.
There may be a lot of paradoxes. You quitted as a response to a need of adaptation; that is ability to flow, and that is in full accordance to basic philosophies in traditional MA and the art of war applied to life and conflict... You're just doing it right, so glad to know.
I agree 100% with you.
I like to see your style grow....
Hello
I used to practice Aikido under Hombu Dojo curriculum. I practiced for 10 year and got a Shodan.
I left Aikido 15 years ago due to family life obligation.
I returned to martial arts a few years ago and now are exploring different styles, e.g. Tai Chi, Wudang, Wushu, May Thai, etc.
I thought about getting back to Aikido, but after exploring about other styles, I find that it would not be practical.
For now, the only belt I’d like is a leather one holding up my ripped jean. Enough about me.
My question is when you left Aikido and started posting your view about Aikido, have you ever gotten any negative back lash from Aikido sensei?
Thank you.
What happened with rhe lenny sly video?
It's a tough choice. One I made about ten years ago, for a few different reasons. There are a few challenges. Rank, recognition. Do you leave it behind, self promote (I never have). Lots of choices... and you do feel along a lot. Some times it's really difficult to be king. Good luck.