In modern Aikido kaiten techniques are typically referred to as “wheel throws” because the uke is projected in a wheel like shape.  Traditionally, however, they were referred to as “open and turn” techniques.  In the text “Budo“ (1938), Master Morihei Ueshiba (Founder of Aikido) describes kaiten as a turn and transform movement.

In the below video Morihiro Saito Sensei (1928-2002) provides demonstrates the Aikido technique Sodeguchidori kaiten nage as practised by O’Sensei (the Founder of Aikido) in the immediate post-war period of his life.

 

ADDITIONAL NOTES

• Technical details (soto application) – London Aikido Club

In the following video, Sensei Andy Hathaway of the London Aikido Club, gives instruction on technical aspects of the soto application subject technique.  For other excellent technical videos on Aikido by the London Aikido Channel see their channel on You Tube.

 

• Brief Biography – Morihiro Saito Sensei (1928-2002)

Morihiro Saito Sensei’s  practice of Aikido spanned 56 years and he is one of the most important teachers in Aikido history.  Saito Sensei was a live-in student of O’sensei for more than 20 years at his home dojo in Iwama, Japan.

Saito Sensei spent his teaching life dedicated to preserving the technical style of Aikido as practised and shown to him by O’sensei in the post-war period.  Without his commitment to preserving the Aikido of the Founder and extensive efforts to record and document his teachings, much of the Aikido of O’sensei may have been lost.