Editorial Review

The ability to go safely to the ground is one of the most important skills of self-defense. It is essential for students of Aikido, who spend half their practice time being thrown forcefully to the mat. On this video, Donovan Waite Sensei demonstrates his own system of falling -- a system based on seven techniques ranging from standard Aikido rolls to knee-saving side falls and spectacular back drops. In all these falls, Waite Sensei meets the mat softly, not with percussion. After illustrating and discussing the details of the seven falls, Waite Sensei offers progressively structured exercises that allow students of all levels to move toward mastery of falling safely and at their own rates. A large step forward in the development o falling technique, the system presented here should interest students of Aikido, people in other martial arts, and others concerned with developing a friendly relationship to the ground.

Review of Desmond Andrew Han from South Korea

Good Ukemi Tape

Very well thoughtout and very sincere instruction. Once fantastic point is that Sensei Donavan repeats each falling technique in different angles. It was remarkable for him to take each fall slowly onto the mat without sustaining any pain or injury. I highly recommend this tape for all Aikido practioners whether you are from Yoshinkan, Aikikai and the likes.

Review of elopez2 from Tampa, Fl USA

Fall Out for Waite

Mr. Waite has incredible ukemi, and on tape one he goes into detail as to how he's developed it. Surprisingly, he came up with this method to off set the many injuries he's received over the years. The instruction is clear and easy to understand. All falls are taught at the "safest" level, slowly going onto more difficult exercises as your ukemi developes. I was astonished at how effective his techniques are. Both Mr. Waite and his assistants are falling on synthetic tatami over concrete. Yet as they fall they never seem to crash onto the mat. A good tape to have as you start to look at improving your own ukemi.