How to Do an Aikido Shoulder Drop

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Aikido is a Japanese martial arts practice that is basically defensive. Various moves are taught and practiced on a mat in the dojo (or school). The Aikido shoulder drop is a basic move learned early in training.

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Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Stretch before beginning any Aikido exercises. Many muscles will be taxed during the practice. Stretch and relax the arm muscles before attempting a shoulder drop.
Step 2

Face your practice partner as he moves toward you. Step slightly out of the way and push on whichever of his shoulders is closest to you. The push will accelerate his momentum, causing him to fall. You will have dropped his shoulder and put him off balance.
Step 3

Learn to fall without hurting yourself. Aikido techniques require two partners, one to perform the technique and one to act out the role of the attacker. The shoulder drop pushes the attacker to the ground. When you assume the role of attacker, bend with the push on your shoulder, softly fall and keep rolling. Go with your momentum. Don't resist.

Tips & Warnings

Focus your energy on the moment at hand. Aikido also involves training the mind to be still. Like yoga practices, an inner calm is required to get the most from Aikido training. Your posture should always be relaxed and at ease, never tense.

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