Aikido Nage Waza: Throwing Techniques in Traditional Aikido

In this review of Aikido Nage Waza, Throwing Techniques in Traditional Aikido, the bottom line is simple: this book is for practitioners and instructors who want a thorough, visual reference to traditional Iwama-style throwing and pinning work. The reviewer found the most compelling reason to buy is the sheer volume of imagery and the clear focus on tai jutsu pinning techniques, which makes it a practical study aid for improving form and understanding the mechanics behind throws. This is the first of three volumes and reads like a photographic manual rather than a narrative history.

Key Features

• Extensive photography: More than 1,000 pictures provide step-by-step visual sequences that help clarify body positioning and timing during throws and pins.
• Traditional focus: The book emphasizes Iwama-origin techniques and the Takemusu Aiki approach, useful for students studying lineage-based practice.
• Tai jutsu coverage: Concentrates on empty-handed pinning techniques, making it a focused resource for refining nage waza without weapon material in this volume.
• Instructional layout: Photographs are arranged to show progression of movement, which aids self-study and supports instructor demonstrations.
• Volume series: As the first of three volumes, it fits into a broader curriculum for practitioners who want a comprehensive visual library.

Who It's For

The book is best for intermediate and advanced aikido students and instructors who train in or study traditional Iwama-style methods and want a concentrated photographic reference on throws and pins. It is also handy for self-directed learners who benefit from visual sequencing rather than long textual descriptions.

Beginners looking for basic vocabulary, history, or an introductory primer on aikido philosophy may find the heavy photographic focus and tai jutsu emphasis less useful; they should pair this volume with a beginner text or instructor guidance to get proper context and safe practice tips.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Extensive image sequences make technical details clear and repeatable for practice.
• Clear emphasis on traditional Iwama techniques helps preserve a specific lineage of practice.
• Concise focus on tai jutsu pinning techniques provides depth rather than a scattered overview.

Cons

• Limited to pinning techniques in this volume, so readers will need the other volumes for weapons and broader coverage.
• The book is photographic and technical, so those seeking narrative history or philosophy may find it dry.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Aikido Nage Waza is a practical, image-driven manual for practitioners who want focused instruction on traditional Iwama throwing and pinning mechanics. It represents good value for dedicated students and instructors who will use the photographs to supplement mat practice, but it should be paired with other volumes or a teacher for weapons work and broader context.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book cover weapons techniques?
Not in this volume; it focuses on tai jutsu pinning and throwing-other volumes cover weapons.

Is it suitable for beginners?
Beginners can use it for visual learning, but it is best paired with beginner instruction or guidance to ensure safe practice.

Who authored the book?
The book is by Mats Alexandersson and emphasizes traditional Iwama methods.