Trying Harder Is Slowing Your Aikido

In martial arts training, effort is often praised. We’re told to try harder, train harder, push harder. But in Aikido, one of the most common obstacles to progress is actually trying too hard. In this episode, Lia Suzuki explores a mistake many beginners make in their training: using excessive effort, tension, or strength in an attempt to make techniques work. While dedication and repetition are essential, overexertion can create stiffness and interfere with the principles that make Aikido effective. Instead, Aikido rewards efficiency. Lia discusses several key ideas that can help practitioners refine their training: First, structure and alignment must come before power. Without proper alignment, strength simply creates resistance. Second, timing is different from speed. A technique does not need to be rushed to be effective; it needs to happen at the right moment. Finally, connection replaces force. When practitioners develop sensitivity and coordination with their partner, techniques begin to feel smoother and more natural. These ideas are not unique to Aikido. Similar principles appear in many sports and physical disciplines where efficiency and coordination ultimately outperform brute force. Practice Prompt:In your next class, notice where effort appears in your technique. Rather than adding strength, experiment with improving your structure and alignment first. See whether the technique becomes lighter or more efficient. If you’d like to continue learning and training: Get weekly Aikido training insights:https://www.lia-suzuki.com/newsletters/2147530761/subscribe Explore Lia’s books:The Teacher — https://lia-suzuki.com/book Mastering the Shoto — https://lia-suzuki.com/shoto-book  You can also train with Lia at seminars and events around the world:https://lia-suzuki.com/seminars