Rather than pitting strength against strength, Aikidoists train to blend with their attackers energy so that they can use it to pin or throw. But what happens when attackers feel technique as it develops and resist - by pulling back, pushing, or bracing?

Here Saotome Sensei - a direct student of Aikido's founder - answers this question, describing ways to use an opponent's resisting energy. In offering his answer, Saotome Sensei urges us to go beyond practice of basic technical form to a higher level, which he calls Oyo Henka - a level at which we are so calm, relaxed, self-assured, and noncompetitive that we adapt to our partners' "feedback" and spontaneously bring conflict to a harmonious resolution.

In addition to almost an hour of lectures and demonstrations, this video contains rare historical footage.

About the Instructor – Mitsugi Saotome

Mitsugi Saotome is one of the most influential Aikido teachers in the world and a direct disciple of Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido. Born in 1937 in Japan, Saotome Sensei entered the Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo as a young man and trained intensively under O-Sensei during the final years of the founder’s life.

Renowned for his dynamic technique, deep understanding of Aikido philosophy, and innovative approach to weapons training, Saotome Sensei later brought Aikido to the United States, where he founded the Aikido Schools of Ueshiba. Through decades of teaching, seminars, and writings, he has influenced thousands of practitioners worldwide.

His Aikido emphasizes harmony, adaptability, and the integration of body, mind, and spirit—preserving the founder’s vision while expanding its expression for modern practitioners.

Length: 1 hour

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