shomenuchi

Aiki Studies for suwari waza – Non resistance

Suwari waza (sometimes referred to as Zagi waza) is a form of Aikido practice performed from the initial position of nage and uke sitting opposite and facing each other while kneeling  (seiza).

In the below video Takeda Satoshi Sensei (7th Dan AKI Aikikai) demonstrates the application of Aiki principles for Suwari waza where the uke strikes the temple of the nage.  This form of traditional attack is referred to as shomenuchi.

As Sensei is exploring responses from Suwari waza shomenuchi from a purely Aiki perspective, there is no predetermined outcome or pin as occurs when practising purely syllabus based Aikido.  The focus is on principle, with particular emphasis on not meeting an attack with physical resistance.

 

The above video was recorded at our dojo on 25 November 2017 as part of a special class by Takeda Satoshi Sensei during his 2017 visit to Australia.

Have a great weekend

Ian Grant
Dojo Cho
Fudoshin Warrior Dojo
Aikido Kenkyukai, Brisbane

Aiki studies – Spirals

It is not uncommon to read a description of Aikido to the effect that it involves the use of circular movements to negate and dispel an attack. A more accurate statement, however, is that Aikido uses spiralling movements to negate and dispel an attack.

Generally speaking, movements that spiral upwards are used to take the balance of the uke (ie the partner receiving the technique). Downward spiralling movements ordinarily lead the uke into a fall.

Understanding spiralling movements in Aikido is essential if one is to proceed to higher levels of Aiki practice.  In the below video Chicko Xerri Sensei (Aikikai 6th Dan) provides a brief introduction to, and demonstration of one of the many spiralling movements that form part of our Aiki studies.

 

ADDITIONAL NOTES

  • Difference between Aiki and Aikido

At its most basic, Aiki refers to the ability to negate and redirect an attacker’s power without reliance on specific technique and with a distinct absence of muscular tension usually associated with physical effort.

In our school Aikido techniques are not an end in themselves, but rather a “way” to progress to the study and practice of Aiki.  In essence we study to master form so that we can ultimately become formless in our practice.

  • Chicko Xerri Sensei

Our dojo is an Aikido Kenkyukai Fudoshin dojo operating under the guidance and mentorship of  Chicko Xerri Sensei, 6th dan AKI (Aikikai), Tokyo.  Chicko Sensei has been practising and teaching Aikido for more than 45 years and is endorsed by Doshu Ueshiba.

Have a great weekend

Ian Grant
Dojo Cho
Fudoshin Warrior Dojo

Training notes: Yokomenuchi kokyu nage

In the below video senior students from our dojo demonstrate a direct entry variation of the Aikido technique Yokomenuchi kokyu nage. 

In this particular variation, the nage initially executes a direct entry hand sword cut up the uke’s centreline to take their balance.  This initial taking of the uke’s balance sets up the remainder of the technique and is critical to its successful application.

 

Have  great week

Ian Grant
Dojo Cho
Aikido Warrior Fudoshin Dojo

 

 

Training notes: Tachi dori – Shomen giri shiho nage

In the below video Aikido Warrior Dojo seniors demonstrate and explain key aspects of the Aikido technique bokken tori shomen giri shiho nage.  The technique is demonstrated as a response to a downward strike to the head (shomenuchi) where the uke is armed with a wooden sword (bokken).

 

ADDITIONAL NOTES

  • Alternate tenkan variation 

In the below video, Peter Brady Shihan (7th Dan Aikikai) provides instruction on an alternate version of bokken tori shiho nage.

 

Have a great week.

Ian Grant
Dojo Cho
Aikido Warrior Dojo

 

Training notes: Tachi dori Shomen giri kaiten nage

In the below video Aikido Warrior Dojo seniors demonstrate the Aikido technique bokken tori shomenuchi kaiten nage.  The technique is demonstrated as a response to a downward strike to the head (shomenuchi) where the uke is armed with a wooden sword (bokken).

 

Have a great week.

Ian Grant
Head Instructor
Aikido Warrior Dojo