RIAI – An introduction to the Sword & Staff of Iwama Ryu Aikido. [Allow 20 minutes]

Generally speaking, Aikido is known by its taijutsu techniques. However, the taijutsu movements are based on movements of the ken. It is difficult to separate those movements which are based on the ken from those which are based on taijutsu. Rather, it is a harmonious blending of both that creates a single Aikido.

Saito Sensei

Critical to the study of Iwama Ryu Aikido is the understanding that it is a RIAI involving the integration of Buki waza (weapons) and taijutsu (open-handed) techniques.  As you study techniques, seek to identify patterns that are used which clearly show the integration between weapons and open-handed training.

Examples include:

Tai no henko – Ken (Sword) & Jo (Staff)

Both Uke (the attacker/person receiving the technique) and Nage (the person executing the technique) start in Ken no kamae – that is basic sword stance learnt from the study of 1st suburi (number one sword technique). The same grip, stance, stability are used whether holding a bokken (wooden sword) or your partners wrist (katate dori) as within Tai no henko. When executing Tai no henko, Nage (the person doing the technique) starts with Ken no kamae – at the mid point assumes Jo no kamae – and then ends in Ken no kamae.

Morote dori kokyuho – Ken (Sword)

The 2-handed grip executed by Uke (the attacker) is the same as when gripping a sword – 1st suburi. The movements of Nage, to re-gain control and take Uke’s balance, are based on Ken patterns.

Suwari waza kokyuho – Ken (Sword)

Taking the balance of Uke, and executing the throw are the same as lifting a sword in 1st suburi.