Nikyo techniques involve the application of a painful pronating or adductive wristlock to subdue or pin an attacker.  They are a common feature in the syllabus of most Aikido schools.

Nikyo techniques can be used to address a wide variety of attacks.  They are particularly effective in circumstances where the uke attempts to grab the clothing or wrist of a nage (as a prelude to follow up strike).

In the below video Morihiro Saito Sensei (9th Dan) explains the fundamental principles that underpin the application of katatedori nikyo. This form of nikyo is applied in response to an attack in the form of a same side grab.

 

ADDITIONAL NOTES

• Katatedori nikyo – Fundamentals

See below a photo demonstration (including description) by Morihiro Saito Sensei (9th Dan) of the fundamental elements of katatedori nikyo as practised by O’sensei in the immediate post war period of his training life.

 

• Katatedori nikyo – Alternate application (1)

See below a photo demonstration (including description) by Morihiro Saito Sensei (9th Dan) of an alternate form of katatedori nikyo which was also practised by O’sensei in the immediate post war period of his training life.

 

• Katatedori nikyo – Alternate application (2)

 

• Avoiding the potential to be kicked in the kneecap 

The method of application in the below video overcomes a common problem sometimes seen with nikyo in that the uke can readily kick the nage in the knee cap to escape. Also included are some suggested exercises to assist in the learning process.

 

• Brief Biography – Morihiro Saito Sensei (1928-2002)

Morihiro Saito Sensei’s  practice of Aikido spanned 56 years and he is one of the most important teachers in Aikido history.  Saito Sensei was a live-in student of O’sensei for more than 20 years at his home dojo in Iwama, Japan.

Saito Sensei spent his teaching life dedicated to preserving the technical style of Aikido as practised and shown to him by O’sensei in the post-war period.  Without his commitment to preserving the Aikido of the Founder and extensive efforts to record and document his teachings, much of the Aikido of O’sensei would have no doubt been lost.  The Aikido world owes him a great debt.

Have a great week.

Ian Grant
Dojo Cho
Aikido Warrior Dojo, Brisbane