Striking techniques (atemi waza) are an integral part of aikido practice. While atemi is typically used in modern Aikido as a means to set up a throwing technique, it may also be used as method of ending a confrontation on its own.
In the below video Master Koretoshi Maruyama, Founder of Aikido Yuishinkai, provides instruction on how to use atemi as a sole response to addressing a downward direct strike to the forehead (shomenuchi) where the attacker is armed with a wooden sword (bokken).
The video was recorded in 2005 at Byron Bay, Australia.
Have a great week.
Ian Grant
Head Instructor
Aikido Warrior Dojo, Brisbane
In the below video Yoshimitsu Yamada Sensei (8th Dan Aikikai) demonstrates and provides instruction for the Aikido technique gokyo (No 5 wrist technique).
The instruction shows how to use gokyo to defend against a knife attack where the uke thrusts the knife to the side of the nage’s neck while holding it in the same way as an ice pick (yokomenuchi sakate mocha). The instruction (other than the pin) is equally applicable to addressing a standard yokomenuchi attack where the uke is unarmed.
ADDITIONAL NOTES
Alternate standing pin and disarm
Kneeling pin if there is no weapon
Alternate entry if uke attacks with shomenuchi strike to forehead
In the below video, Mike Jones Sensei (New York Aikikai) demonstrates how to perform a basic yonkyo (No 4 wrist technique) from a cross hand grab (Ai hanmi katatedori yonkyo).
The video also includes a step-by-step breakdown of the mechanics of applying yonkyo where the nage has initially responded to the attack as if they were completing an ikkyo technique.The reason for this approach is that an ikkyo entry is one of the easiest ways to initially set up the conditions necessary for an effective yonkyo response.
ADDITIONAL NOTES
Kosadori yonkyo – Morihiro Saito Sensei
Ai hanmi katate dori yonkyo is referred to Kosadori yonkyo in some schools. See below video of Morihiro Saito Sensei (9th Dan) explaining the fundamental elements of Kosadori nikyo as practised by O’sensei in the immediate post war period of his training life.
Yonkyo – Ki aikido version
For comparison purposes, see below an application of yonkyo as practised in Aikido Yuishinkai. This method of application is typical to that often seen practised in ki aikido schools.
Of note at Step 3 in the the video, Koretoshi Maruyama Sensei changes his hand position prior to executing the yonkyo cut to what is referred to as a “traditional sankyo” hand position. This is done in part to aid easier learning of the technique.
However, it should be noted that the change in hand position is not critical in the omote application of sankyo if the intent is to merely cut the uke straight to the mat (as occurs in the video). The hand change without the sankyo is demonstrated in the following photographs.
Yonkyo doesn’t work on everyone
From a martial perspective, one of the concerns about yonkyo is that it’s effectiveness relies on the uke experiencing ulna nerve pain. However, about 10% of people seem immune to this type of pain. This, combined with the possibility of nage error in its application, makes yonkyo a potentially high risk technique.
To minimise this risk it is essential that the technique be applied on a uke whose balance is completely broken. This facilitates alternate back up options should things not go as planned. For example, in the context of the above method of application, an attempted (although technically not successful) yonkyo can still be used to take an unbalanced uke to the ground. This is done by the nage directing energy to the uke‘s elbow and driving it to the mat.
A kotegeashi is an outward wrist turn and traditionally is broadly categorised in Aikido as a kaiten (open and turn) technique.
In the below video Morihiro Saito Sensei demonstrates how kotegaeshi may be applied in circumstances where the uke has pinned the nage’s hands behind their back.
Depending on the Aikido style, the technique is referred to as Ushiro ryotedori kotegaeshi or Ushiro tekubidori kotegaeshi .
ADDITIONAL NOTES
How to release the grip – Pictorial illustration
Additional details
In the below video, Sensei Andy Hathaway of the London Aikido Club explores the Aiki principles underpinning Ushiro ryotedori kotegaeshi . Hathaway Sensei emphasises the importance of getting off-line and the use of balance breaking principles to effectively execute the technique. These principles are particularly important where the uke has a strong grip on the wrists.
Ki aikido approach
In the below video, Koretoshi Maruyama Sensei demonstrates how ushiro ryotedori kotegaeshi is practised in Aikido Yuishinkai. The method of practice is typical of that found in many ki aikido schools inspired by the teachings of Koichi Tohei Sensei.
In our School, taninzugake (or free form practice) is commonly practiced at the end of each class. This type of practice allows the nage to respond to the selected attack type by using any technique they so choose. The attack type in the video is katate dori, which is a single wrist grab.
Striking techniques (atemi waza) are an integral part of aikido practice. While atemi is typically used in modern Aikido as a means to set up a throwing technique, it may also be used as method of ending a confrontation on its own.
Aikido Warrior Dojo 
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