During the pandemic, many practitioners shifted to solo training using a wooden partner (often a piece of wood like an axe or pickaxe handle) to maintain mobility, grip, and timing. The Essence of Solo Practice
To "put together a long piece" for a video like , the focus should be on the dual meaning of "Kokoro"—referring both to the "heart/spirit" and specific training tools used in martial arts like Aikido.
: A pickaxe handle or a simple length of wood acts as a "wooden partner" to improve tai sabaki (body movement) and reach.
Training in isolation isn't just about physical reps; it's about the "Kokoro" or the heart of the practice.
: The reality of the "lockdown dojo" and the necessity of keeping the spirit (Kokoro) active.
: Detail specific movements like grip strength development , timing exercises , and spatial awareness drills.
: Borrowing inspiration from masters like Tada Hiroshi Shihan , quarantine training emphasizes mind-body relaxation rather than just raw force.