Aikido: Way Of Harmony

Foster Gamble is the host for this intriguing overview of the martial art "aikido," a non-aggressive method of self-defense which uses bends of the wrist and arm of the enemy to turn his own force against him. Historical footage of the founder of aikido (a form which is only some 40 years old) is shown while the narrator offers a brief history of the martial art and its guiding principles. The bulk of the program focuses on four aikido masters (Robert Nadeum, Frank Doran, Bill Witt, and Bruce Klickstein) who offer their own insights into aikido, and are seen practicing with students. Based on the concept of "blending," that is, meeting the attack and turning it against one's attacker, aikido is a powerful and extraordinarily graceful martial art, and it is well profiled here. Highly recommended. (Available from: Chip Taylor Productions, 15 Spollett Dr., Derry, NH 03038;1-800-876-CHIP.)