ki no nagare

Training notes: Katatedori kokyu ho

OSenseiTaiNoHenkoIn the below videos Morihiro Saito Sensei (1928-2002) demonstrates the basic  version of Katatedori kokyu ho.

The application is performed from a single hand grab (katatedori) and is categorised as a breath exercise (kokyu ho) or breath throw (kokyu nage).

Kokyu ho exercises are used in Aikido to assist in developing internal power.  They can also be techniques in themselves (kokyu nage) or form key aspects of other techniques.  At higher levels of practice kokyu ho principles form part of every technique.

 

ADDITIONAL NOTES

  • Technical details

 

  • Katatedori kokyu ho – Alternate application (1)

In the following video Donovan Waite Sensei (7th Dan Aikikai) demonstrates an alternate application of katatedori kokyu nage.  Waite Sensei’s instruction emphasises the importance of connection.  Also of note in this version of the technique is the use of the elbow to effect balance and the pushing away of the uke to complete the technique.

 

  • Alternate application (2) – Peter Brady Shihan

In the below video, Peter Brady Shihan (7th Dan Aikikai) provides instruction for an alternate application of Katatedori kokyu ho.

 

  • Alternate application (3) – Donovan Waite Sensei

 

  • Alternate application (4) – Peter Kelly Sensei 

The below video was recorded at our dojo on 12 August 2015 as part of a special class given by Peter Kelly Sensei of Aikido Yuishinkai (Tasmania) on kokyu ho applications in Aikido practice.

 

Have a great week.

Ian Grant
Head Instructor
Aikido Warrior Dojo, Brisbane

Training notes – Ushiro ryotedori ikkyo (2) – Ki no nagare

In the below video, Christian Tissier Shihan (8th Dan Aikikai) demonstrates the omote and ura versions of the Aikido technique ushiro ryotedori ikkyo.

The demonstrations are completed in a dynamic free flowing form whereby the uke commences the attack by proceeding to the front of the nage, grabbing the nage’s wrist and then moving to the rear (with a view to also grabbing the nage’s second wrist).

This form of practice is referred to in some schools as ki no nagare.  In ki aikido schools it is sometimes referred to as ryutai.

 

ADDITIONAL NOTES

  • Movement and Sword principles

In the below video Chicko Xerri Sensei  (6th Dan Aki Aiki kai) explores the sword principles that underpin the higher level practice of ushiro techniques.  The exploration is particularly applicable to ikkyo applications.

Our dojo is part of the Aikido Kenkyukai Fodoshin Dojos (Australia).  Chicko Sensei is the Shihan for our school.

 

  • Balance breaking principles – Kuzushi

In the below video produced by Senshin Center Aikido Dojo, balance breaking principles applicable to ushiro attacks are explored. Kuzushi is unfortunately something that is sometimes overlooked in Aikido. The fact remains, however, that it is near impossible to throw a centred uke unless they are either cooperating or overpowered by a significantly larger nage.

 

  • Alternate application (1) – Chicko Xerri Sensei – AKI Fudoshin Aikido

In the below video Chicko Xerri Sensei explores an alternate option for addressing a ushiro attack whereby the uke is not permitted to move to the rear of the nage. Chicko sensei emphasises the important aiki principle of creating a space to move before attempting an aikido application.

 

  • Alternate application (2) – Chicko Xerri Sensei – AKI Fudoshin Aikido

In the below video Chicko Xerri Sensei explores a further option for addressing ushiro attacks.  The option readiy sets up the circumstances for an ikkyo application.

 

  • Ki Aikido

In the below video, Koretoshi Maruyama Sensei provides instruction on Ushiro tekubidori ikkyo as practised in Aikido Yuishinkai.  The method of application is typical of the approach taken by ki aikido schools.

 

All the best

Ian Grant
Head Instructor
Aikido Warrior Dojo

 

Training Notes – Morotedori kokyu ho

OsenseiMorote tori kokyu ho was one of the three techniques O’Sensei taught at all of his classes.  At basic level, the technique is practised against a uke who is offering  resistance.  O”Sensei considered that the regular practice of morotedori kokyu ho was essential to build an “aiki body“.

Given the high emphasis that the Founder placed on morote tori kokyu, it is regularly practised at our dojo.

In the below videos Morihiro Saito Sensei (9th Dan) demonstrates morotedori kokyu ho at kihon (basic) and ki no nagare (free flowing) levels.

 

ADDITIONAL NOTES

  • Technical details – Basic (kihon) level – Morihiro Saito Sensei

 

  • Morotedori kokyu ho – ki no nagare

In the below video, Saito Sensei demonstrates how to apply Morotedori kokyu ho at a higher level free flowing technique.  This level of application should not be attempted until mastery of the basic version has been achieved.

 

  • Hanmi

In the following video, Saito Sensei explains in more detail the hanmi principles underlying morotedori kokyu ho.

 

  • Correct way to grab

 

  • Morotedori kokyu ho – Peter Kelly Sensei 

In the below video, Peter Kelly Sensei, Aikido Yuishinkai Tasmania, provides training tips on morote tori kokyu ho.  Peter Sensei describes the movement as follows:

“The basic premis is a double spiral, both the hara and the arm. The left hand atemi to the abdomen helps get the pelvis in the correct position to not use strength in the hand which is twisted and held down with alot of resistance. The resistance helps to generate powerful hips and body.”   

 

  • Morotedori kokyu ho (ura)

In the below video Saito Sensei demonstrates how Morotedori kokyu ho is applied if the nage commences the exercise with a tenkan movement.

 

  • An alternate approach

In the following video, Takashi Kuroki Sensei of Nishio Aikido gives instruction on an alternate approach to Morotedori kokyu ho.  This approach is also practiced at our dojo.

 

Ian Grant
Dojo Cho
Aikido Warrior Dojo