Last month we welcomed So Matsumoto (松本想生) to train with us at Aikido in Sydney. After returning to Japan, So-san shared his thoughts about his experiences with us. I am a university student from Japan. I always practice aikido in Tokyo. I had an unforgettable time in the Aikido in Sydney dojo because it was one of my dreams to practice aikido in foreign countries. My… Read more →
Author: Greg Warr
When It Comes To Traditional Weapons, Oils Ain’t Oils
What kind of oil should you use to treat and maintain wooden traditional weapons? I want an oil that can just be wiped onto the weapon and absorbed into the wood. I think we want an oil that won’t evaporate and let the wood dry out, won’t chemically react after application, and won’t leave a waxy deposit. But as the… Read more →
Weapons Workshop: Sat 26 July
Weapons are an integral part of aikido and several other martial arts. This half-day, practical workshop will cover their use, care, and maintenance, and you can finish your own jō from raw material to keep. Admin Place: Aikido in Sydney dojo, Chapel Lane, Alexandria NSW 2015Time: 10.00 am to 1.00 pm, Sat 26 July 2025Cost: $65 for weapons workshop, including advice… Read more →
Smooth moves
How to maintain your bokken, jō and tantō… For an unvarnished new weapon or one that needs serious maintenance you can start with very fine grit (P400), then work your way successively through P600 up to super fine grit (P1200). Wooden weapons are best maintained by regular sanding and oiling. A hard, smooth surface makes your weapon not only less… Read more →