Aikido Weapons Techniques. Phong Thong Dang

Atemi in empty-hand aikido techniques is often reserved for distraction and unbalancing, unless it is more of a self-defense situation and application. In weapons training, striking, throwing, and control are all viable and valuable options.

      After successfully completing the execution of an aikido technique, one must learn to let go and move on. A slight pause before letting go allows for a sense of closure and completion. Zanshin is the term for the idea of a lingering spirit or connection. Once the encounter is completed, however, let go and move on the next attacker or opponent. This is especially true in randori practice against sequential multiple attackers, or in a real self-defense situation where one can never assume there is only one attacker.

      CONCEPTUAL EXECUTION

      Shoshin and mushin are two very important frames of minds to continually cultivate and maintain. Shoshin is “beginner’s mind,” and mushin is a calm and empty mind. Shoshin is the openness and awe of the beginner’s mind. It is the mind ready and available to learn. Mushin is the serene, unoccupied mind that, through years of disciplined training, is able to allow the body to be aware and respond with spontaneous execution of the appropriate technique.

      Shizan-tai is a relaxed, natural state of being. The concept of natural movement and natural forces is very common in aikido. Maintaining a relaxed state, both physically and mentally, allows one to respond appropriately with greater effectiveness and efficiency. A state of being is different from a state of doing in that being relaxed and natural, without fear, may be all the doing that is necessary.

      Metsuke is the soft eye focus that facilitates better utilization of the peripheral vision to be aware of motion and to help maintain a sense of physical, emotional, and mental calm. Metsuke perceives as if looking into the distance, without focusing or stopping the eyes or mind on any one thing. Without attachment to any one thing, all things are seen and perceived for what they are. “Seeing without looking = perceiving” (Random 1977, p. 78). Looking implies looking for something specific, while perceiving means to be aware of what is there. Metsuke also facilitates the ability to perceive and distinguish shapes, contours, and textures that do not fit a specific context, giving advance notice and the ability to respond proactively and protectively. Too often, in weapons work, the eyes focus on the weapon. This is a mistake, since it leaves the vision and reaction fixated on only one aspect of the opponent or attacker.

      Ma-ai is the concept of cultivation and maintenance of proper combative distance. Too far away, and the technique is ineffective because one is outside the circle of power. Too close, and the technique is ineffective as well. The beginning ready ma-ai is often the distance required to have the tips of the weapons touching, so that one step can deliver the single lethal strike.