Tachi Dori: Part Three (Aiki)
By Hanshi Philip M Scudieri
Aiki is often referred to as blending, harmony or even a way to destroy a persons will to fight. However, it is mostly thought about as a style of martial art or way of life known as Aikido.
In this kumitachi we blend with, and then use the attacker’s forward movement to take away his katana. We call this “blending spirit” then “dominating spirit.”
| 1: Shitachi is in chudan and Uchitachi is in hasso gamae. |  |
2: Uchi steps forward with his right foot and attempts kiri oroshi. (Cutting downward) Shi tachi side steps to his left to prepare removing the blade from uchis’s grip. Note uke’s back foot. |
 |
| 3: (Close up) |  |
| 4: Shitachi then pushes the tsuka back toward Uchitachi |  |
| 5: Pulls and cuts. Once uchitachi attacks, the counter is performed in one motion. |
 |
Always with a new technique, start slow. Then build up speed and power.
Practice, Practice, Practice!
Thanks to Mr. Dennis Maahs and Mr. Mark Dungan
Next issue: The Gekken or “Severe Sword” of the Itto Tenshin Ryu, a style that uses extra heavy bokuto and stresses brute force.