How to Stay Calm During Fast Attacks in Aikido

Fast attacks in Aikido can feel overwhelming — but speed itself usually isn’t the real issue. In this episode, I explore why our internal reaction to speed matters more than how fast an attack actually is. When pressure increases, the body reacts before the mind has time to process. Breath tightens, tension rises, and awareness narrows. Calm doesn’t appear automatically in those moments. It has to be trained — ahead of time — under pressure. I share personal experiences from my own training, including working with fast and intimidating partners, and why choosing to train into discomfort can dramatically change how we respond. Calm widens perception. Tension reduces it. When we remain calm, we gather more information, receive speed more effectively, and create new timing without feeling the need to match force with force. This idea applies not only on the mat, but also in daily life. When external conditions speed up, learning to slow down internally allows us to respond with clarity rather than reflex. 🧘 Practice Prompt The next time pressure increases, try exhaling, widening your awareness, and letting the external pace be whatever it is — while you slow down internally. 🎁 Essential Links 📘 My book, The Teacherhttps://lia-suzuki.com/book  📬 Weekly Training Video Newsletterhttps://www.lia-suzuki.com/newsletters/2147530761/subscribe 🗓️ Train with me (in person & remote)https://lia-suzuki.com/seminars