A companion video to the 2-disk DVD set, Principles of the Sword and Mitsugi Saotome Sensei's First Five Kumitachi, this single DVD completes the kumitachi series created by Mitsugi Saotome shihan. Mitsugi Saotome shihan, long-time uchideshi to aikido's Founder, developed twelve kumitachi kata for students in his organization, Aikido Schools of Ueshiba. Forms 6 - 12 are more complex and advanced than Forms 1 - 5, and build upon the skills learned in the fundamental forms. In this DVD by George Ledyard sensei, you will find:

• Thorough dissection and analysis of advanced forms 6 - 12
• Demonstrations and discussion of how to perform the kata
• Explanation of the martial application of each movement within the forms

Based upon Mitsugi Saotome shihan's kumitachi, the principles presented in these videos are applicable to aiki sword in general and are not specific to Saotome shihan's particular style.

Run time: approximately 80 minutes. DVD-R disk.

George Ledyard sensei began his aikido studies in 1976 under the direct instruction of Mitsugi Saotome shihan and has continued this association while founding and serving as chief instructor of Aikido Eastside in Bellevue, WA. He currently holds the rank of 6th dan in aikido. His thirty years of aikido teaching experience is apparent in the material found is this highly instructional and well organized presentation.