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Aikido is unique for its subtle, non-violent movements. Its defensive and non-aggressive characteristics seem contradictory, but it serves as a highly practical martial art. Comprised mainly of throwing, pinning, and controlling through joint manipulation, it focuses on neutralizing unprovoked attack.
The moves are meant to help students control their breathing, become harmonized with their surroundings, and release tension so that physical balance can be established. In turn, an opponent's attack can be blended with, and used against him. The aim is to use the minimum amount of force so that serious injury will not result.
Neutralizing
Movements
There are two categories of neutralizing movements:
Kateme-waza
These movements focus on control.
Ikkyo
(left, 949 kb)
Nikkyo
(right, 693 kb)
Nage-waza
These movements focus on throwing.
Kokyunage
(left, 598 kb)
Shihonage
(right, 309 kb)
Technically, three series of moves form the basis of self-defense movements in Aikido:
-
Yielding to the encounter
- Maintaining
one's balance
- Undoing
the opponent's balance and throwing him or pinning to control him (using
minimum amount of force so that serious injury does not occur).
Defensive
Techniques
There are five basic defensive techniques:
-
Atemi: Striking vulnerable
parts of the body using the parts of the hand
- Tai
Sabaki: Shifting of body weight redirect force of attack
- Irimi:
Methods of entering the attacker's space
- Rofuse:
Throwing using pressure to the joints
- Kansetsu: Immobilization using joint restraints
Like challenges? Take the Aikido Quiz.
