Tori refers to the person who performs the technique or controls the attack during training. The Tori executes the defensive movement, while the Uke (the receiver) attacks and takes the fall.
Word Tittle:
Tenkan
Japanese Script:
転換
pronunciation:
ten-kahn
Definition:
Tenkan means “turning” or “rotation.” It’s a fundamental Aikido movement where the practitioner pivots or turns to redirect the attacker’s energy instead of opposing it directly. Tenkan is often paired with Irimi to blend and control effectively.
Word Tittle:
Shomen Uchi
Japanese Script:
正面打ち
pronunciation:
show-men oo-chee
Definition:
Shomen Uchi means “frontal strike” or “vertical strike to the head.” It is a common attack in Aikido practice where the attacker brings their arm or weapon straight down toward the opponent’s head, allowing the defender to apply various techniques in response.
Word Tittle:
Randori
Japanese Script:
乱取り
pronunciation:
rahn-doh-ree
Definition:
Randori means “free practice” or “free taking.” It’s a training exercise where a practitioner defends against multiple attackers at once, focusing on fluidity, awareness, and adaptability rather than preset techniques.
Word Tittle:
Ki
Japanese Script:
気
pronunciation:
kee
Definition:
Ki translates as “energy,” “spirit,” or “life force.” In Aikido, it refers to the vital energy that flows through all living things. Harmonizing one’s Ki with the opponent’s is essential for effective movement and technique.
Word Tittle:
Kote Gaeshi
Japanese Script:
小手返し
pronunciation:
koh-teh gah-eh-shee
Definition:
Kote Gaeshi means “wrist turn” or “wrist return.” It’s a joint-locking technique that involves twisting the opponent’s wrist outward to throw or control them, often used to redirect their force.
Word Tittle:
Irimi
Japanese Script:
入り身
pronunciation:
ee-ree-mee
Definition:
Irimi literally means “entering the body.” It refers to a movement where the practitioner enters directly into the opponent’s space or attack line to blend with their energy and take control. It emphasizes entering rather than avoiding.
Word Tittle:
Ukemi
Japanese Script:
受け身
pronunciation:
oo-keh-mee
Definition:
Ukemi means “receiving body” or “receiving technique.” It’s the art of safely falling, rolling, or absorbing the impact during practice. Ukemi allows practitioners to protect themselves and continue training without injury.
