Multiple person grabs are a common training tool in Aikido and are have a long tradition in our Budo.  The Founder of Aikido (Master Morihei Ueshiba) regularly demonstrated and practised this form of training. There are numerous videos of him doing so, the earliest going back to the 1930’s.

Two person grabs in Aikido practice are typically referred to as ninindori.  Ninindori represents the basic form of multiple grab practice. As a student progresses additional attackers can be added to make the exercise more challenging.

In the below video, Master Koretoshi Maruyama, Founder of Aikido Yuishinkai, demonstrates how to use kokyu nage (a “breath throw”) to escape when ukes in ninindori grab each arm of the nage.  

All the best

Ian Grant
Head Instructor
Aikido Warrior Dojo