From February to May 2015, as part of her undergraduate work with St. Mary's College, Meredith Ann Seeley conducting a comparative inquiry into aspects of dance and aikido. Though the liberal, performing, and martial arts have many shared elements, this study involves a research focus refined by the following factors:

• Aikido themes are universal but any style practiced is one of many possible styles. Meredith's experience (since summer of 2013) is with the Midwest Aikido Center (USAF) founded by Tohei Sensei. She has attended seminars with Yokota Shihan, Vu Ha Sensei, Andy Sato Shihan, Bernath Shihan, Yamada, and Seki.
• Dance takes many different forms. This study primarily considers ballet and modern, with brief comparative forays into other areas.
• The study is experiential and fulfills undergraduate requirements, and so does not attempt an exhaustive review of literature. The resources included in the study are listed as Works Cited.