From 1946 to 2018, the Daito Ryu Aiki Jujutsu (mainline) hombu dojo firmly denied any connection between Choi Yong Sul, the founder of Hapkido, and their art. They maintained that no records existed proving Choi ever trained under Takeda Sokaku and even went so far as to label him a fraud. For over 70 years, this was the official stance that went unchallenged.

Then, in 2018, everything changed. Seemingly out of nowhere, a long-lost record was "found" and released to the public. This single entry claimed that Choi attended a 10-day training seminar in 1942. After decades of absolute denial, this sudden discovery raises more questions than it answers. Why now? What else might be hidden or conveniently overlooked? Makes you wonder about the "official" records kept by the various Daito Ryu organizations...

“If only you knew the magnificence of 3,6 and 9, then you would have a key to the universe.” – Nikola Tesla
 
While the study of internal power is hardly a key to the universe, the numbers three, six, and nine have important symbolism in American Yoshinkan Aiki Jujutsu. Three, a sacred number in numerous cultures, in our system is a reference to the Sangen 三元 (Three Principles) of Aiki, otherwise known as Tenchijin 天地人 (Heaven, Earth, Man). This triad symbolizes the harmonious integration of cosmic forces, terrestrial elements, and human essence, reflecting the unified interplay of In (Yin) and Yo (Yang) energies. Far from being separate or conflicting, these dual forces exist in a constant state of dynamic balance, each giving rise to the other in an endless cycle of movement and transformation.
 
Together, Inyo is represented by dual opposing spirals, intertwined for a singular purpose greater than the sum of its parts. These spirals mirror the natural flow of energy within the body, in martial movement, and throughout the universe itself. Just as galaxies swirl, ocean currents flow, and breath cycles in and out, Inyo expresses itself through continuous, circular motion. It is never static, never linear, but always evolving and adapting.

In the world of Aiki Jujutsu, mastery comes from understanding how forces interact to disrupt an opponent’s balance and structure. At the heart of this lies three fundamental principles: Aiki Age (up), Aiki Sage (down), and Aiki Yoko (turn). Every technique in Aiki Jujutsu incorporates some variation of these movements, creating a seamless flow of control that feels both effortless and overwhelming.

​When applied correctly, this interplay allows a practitioner to manipulate an opponent’s center with precision, leaving them unable to resist effectively. In this article, we’ll explore how these principles work together to define the art of Aiki Jujutsu.

​​At its core, Aiki Age introduces upward energy, disrupting an opponent’s stability by lifting their center of gravity and making them light. This effect can be achieved externally through technique or internally through fascial engagement and breath control. When an opponent is uprooted, they become highly susceptible to further manipulation, as their ability to resist is greatly diminished.
 
Like most techniques, there are various levels of refinement regarding Aiki Age, dictated by the depth of internal body integration and the method by which the uprooting is created. At a fundamental level, Aiki Age can be understood as a simple mechanical lifting motion, using leverage or external force to break the opponent’s balance.

The three fundamental principles of Aiki serve as the foundation for all movement and application within Aiki Jujutsu. They are:

• Aiki Age 合気上げ – Rising Energy
  This principle involves directing energy upward, creating an effect that lifts, uproots, or unbalances an opponent. It can be seen in techniques that disrupt an attacker’s structure by elevating their center of gravity, making them light and easier to control.
• Aiki Sage 合気下げ – Dropping Energy
  The counterbalance to Aiki Age, this principle directs energy downward, generating an overwhelming pressure that makes it difficult for them to recover or counter.
• Aiki Yoko 合気横 – Rotational Energy
  ​This principle focuses on lateral movement, often using rotation and redirection to control an opponent’s force. Aiki Yoko utilizes the spine as a central axis, allowing for smooth, efficient transitions that guide an opponent’s energy off their intended path.

 
While these principles can be isolated and studied individually, true mastery of Aiki Jujutsu comes from their seamless integration. Every movement, technique, and application should embody a dynamic balance of rising, dropping, and lateral energy. By blending these forces in motion, one creates a natural and effortless flow of technique that embodies the essence of Aiki.

A week earlier than anticipated, my book "The Secrets Guard Themselves" is officially published and available worldwide! This has been such an amazing experience, and I hope it provides some value for those passionate about such a misunderstood subject as Aiki. Thank you to everyone who has made this possible!

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From the back cover:
In "The Secrets Guard Themselves," Bret Gordon, the inheritor of American Yoshinkan Aiki Jujutsu, unravels the elusive principle of Aiki and its integration into modern martial disciplines. Drawing on his extensive experience, Gordon reveals the fundamental principles of internal power—teaching not only how to harness this force, but how to apply it practically in real-world scenarios.

This book offers a practical guide for martial artists of all levels. With insights on developing the elusive qualities of internal power sought after for centuries, Gordon demonstrates how the internal principles of Aiki can transform not just combat effectiveness, but one's overall understanding of movement, energy, and structure.

​"The Secrets Guard Themselves" emphasizes the importance of cultivating internal strength as a natural, intuitive force. With a focus on modern application, Gordon shows how this ancient wisdom can be adapted to current martial arts, enhancing the practitioner’s performance, understanding, and efficiency. This book is a must-read for martial artists, instructors, and students seeking to unlock the secrets that lie hidden within, and apply them to their everyday training. By bridging traditional concepts with cutting-edge insights, it offers a unique perspective that resonates across all skill levels. Readers will find themselves empowered to refine their techniques and deepen their connection to the art.