In the below video Master Koretoshi Maruyama, Founder of Aikido Yuishinkai, provides instruction for the partnered bokken kata – Hitotsu no tachi as practiced in Aikido Yuishinkai.

Hitotsu no tachi (like all partnered bokken practice in our school) is choreographed with both participants having predetermined movements and roles.

Skills developed through 2 person bokken kata directly transferable to unarmed training include those related to:

• blending and parrying;
• timing;
• using small body movements to generate power and move off-line (this is achieved through correct use of the hips and moving the body as a single entity);
• Entering and related footwork; and
• Stillness of mind.

The video was recorded in 2012 in Rotterdam as part of an Aikido Yuishinkai International Seminar.  It was made available courtesy of Aikido Yuishinkai International Instructor, Martijn van Hemmen Sensei.

Have a great week.

Ian Grant
Head Instructor
Aikido Warrior Dojo