Handling Real Strikes with Aikido

In this video I discuss the difficulty in catching real punches and making a technique happen. In my opinion, many aikido students only experience slower, classroom striking and are surprised at how fast a real punch is thrown and withdrawn. Many students feel they are supposed to make a technique happen every time a fist comes at them. I want to dispel this myth and point out that not getting hit is the real point. A technique will eventually find its place. My traditional Boxing friend, Justin, helps me illustrate this concept by trying to punch me with real speed and in real time. Justin does not practice any throwing martial arts and knows no ukemi; therefore, I do not throw him. I explain some timing issues with catching a“real“ punch and talk about the need to be comfortable knowing that a strike is coming at you.