Explanations of Aikido techniques
Aikido consists of internal forms – the principles of Aikido (Ki, Aiki, Kokyu, Hara, Shin) – and external forms – the techniques (Waza) – and it is only when these two forms are combined that they together constitute Aikido.
In Aikido training, the external forms serve as a means of experiencing and developing the internal forms. In Aikido, a distinction is made between basic techniques (Kihon waza) and variations (Henka waza), as well as sequences (Renzoku waza); furthermore, there are unarmed techniques (Tai Jutsu) and techniques using weapons, e.g. the sword (Aiki-Ken) or the staff (Aiki-Jo).
The variety of aikido movements is based on a relatively small number of basic techniques (5 holding techniques and 8 throwing techniques), which can be combined, transitioned into one another and adapted in many different ways.
When you move,
Morihei Ueshiba
techniques are born.
Like all applications of martial arts designed for a specific purpose (attack, defence, neutralisation), aikido techniques also have strategic advantages and disadvantages.
The greatest advantage for the aikidoka is that the attacking movement is not blocked. As long as Uke (the attacker) continues to move, redirecting and guiding techniques take precedence. If the movement stagnates or is blocked, an appropriate technique and body movement are used to restore Uke’s movement.
One drawback is that optimal body movement can only be practised in relation to a partner. This requires a very high degree of tactile perception and sensitivity to movement, and often involves longer and more intensive practice.
Aikido does not involve any intention to cause direct harm to an attacker, nor does it have the aim of winning a fight.
The aikidoka optimises their defensive strategy by using their great range of movement to disrupt an attack and thwart it by transitioning into throwing and holding techniques.
In many martial arts, offensive techniques are taught. To the layman, it seems logical that ‘attack is the best form of defence’. In other words, the remedy – the resolution of a latent conflict – is sought through attack. The attack is intended to serve the purpose of neutralising the opponent. This usually involves causing physical harm or otherwise compromising their integrity. From the perspective of Aikido, this strategy is an illusion, for, apart from being morally reprehensible, it also contains major strategic weaknesses!
The technical system of Aikido does not include any offensive techniques whatsoever. This is because every offensive action contains what is known as a ‘point of no return’ – a specific point in the sequence of movements beyond which the initiated attack can no longer be halted, yet the success of the attack – that is, establishing a position of superiority over the opponent – has not yet been achieved. Every offensive action thus contains points at which the attack can be disrupted and its success thereby thwarted.
Through his exclusively defensive action, the aikidoka pursues the strategic aim of thwarting the attack whilst taking complete control of the attacker’s movement. The attacking movement is not met with an energy-sapping block, and so the momentum is maintained.
Whilst synchronising with the attacker’s movement, the aikidoka takes control of the attacker’s movement.