Pair exercise for studying trust and the Aikido principle of fluidity.
How is it done?
Children work in pairs. One is the Leader and the other one is the Follower. The Follower is glued to the Leader by applying pressure through palms. Instructors should warn participants not to grab hands, but apply pressure instead.
- The Leader walks around the dojo/room, while changing the speed and direction, walking backwards, and squatting. The Leader is responsible for the Follower's safety. The Follower needs to 'listen' to the Leader's moves.
- The Follower closes his/her eyes and continues following the Leader's moves.
- The feeling of staying glued (applying pressure) is used through different Aikido techniques like Ikkyo (omote, ura), kote-gaeshi, etc.
- Variations: Pairs could switch from palm contact to shoulder or upper arm, back, two people follow one, etc.
Depending on the group level, the instructor can suggest a change of intensity by adding rotations, speed, or squats.
What is it good for?
The primary objective of The Glue exercise is building trust. The Leader (tori) has to feel responsible for guiding the Follower (uke) through space. The Follower in the game constantly pays attention and stays connected. Through the movement (e.g., up, down, forward, etc.) the skills of coordination, harmonic movement, general attention, and sensitivity are developed. Students will improve their muscle tone and coordination, as well as their experience to lead, follow, and trust. Aikido techniques become a tool for developing important human relationships.