Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido as it is properly referred to as Ki-Aikido is truly a peaceful art similar to Tai Chi. The key to practicing Ki-Aikido properly is to make sure you have mind and body coordination. Usually, the correct sequence would be for the practitioner to start out in a Ki class and then Aikido. Ki-Aikido also emphasize on posture work too, which differs from some form of Tai Chi. Carl, if you want to practice Ki-Aikido, make sure that you discuss your past martial arts experience, which in this case is Tai Chi with them before proceeding.
The Ki-Aikido posture, especially taught at Ki no Kenyukai association IS NOT compatible with Tai Chi. I am a Tai Chi practitioner myself and my Chief Instructor knew this. He repeatedly warned me to shed away my Tai Chi posture and adapt this Aikido completely to prevent further injuries, because the internal art will only work fully if you use their posture completely and faithfully. Suffice to say, I decided to discontinue my studies with him. No hard feelings, but I also come to love Tai Chi and personally, I didn’t like the Aikido instructor attitude either. He seemed to think that only Ki-Aikido is the best martial art and nothing else is better. He also said that I will only change if someone defeats me. My Chi-master once told me that if someone thinks like this way, politely bow and leave. Don’t waste anytime with him or her.

I joined a Shin Gi Tai Aikido class and although the teachers and students were friendly I was coming away with moderate sprains that were not healing by next week’s class. this took me by surprise from an art that was based on internal energy over external force.

I am currently continuing with Lee style Tai Chi alone, communicating with my distant teachers by email and online resources and DVDs, but I know this is not ideal and I lack the opportunity to train with others.

There is a Ki Aikido class in nearby Penzance, but I stand at a crossroads – whether to try the Ki Aikido or stay with the Tai Chi I have come to love.