irimi nage

In the last several classes I have focused on irimi-nage starting from ai-hanmi katate-dori. To develop precision and accuracy, I’ve emphasized how nage’s hand position determines the flow of movement. More importantly, the moment of contact defines the fixed point around which all subsequent action resolves. What do I mean? Much like tai no henko,Continue reading “IRIMI NAGE”

WEAPON RETENTION

The banner image is a sobering reminder that retaining control of your weapon is imperative in close quarter combat. Primary weapons are always carried at the waist, thus the focus on chudan level. The ritual endures longer than the reason for it – try to deduce the martial logic behind the ritualistic rote repetition inContinue reading “WEAPON RETENTION”

AIKIKEN AND THE AXIS

This (1/25/25) was the first class after the end of Kangeiko and after Okamoto sensei’s visit to Portland Aikikai. It was *scolding-look* a lightly attended class. Favorably, lower attendance provides a forum to explain the principle of the axis of an encounter using a weapon. The first explication: shomen-uchi from the draw to irimi-nage. BothContinue reading “AIKIKEN AND THE AXIS”