Close With Partner

The Close or Entry is accomplished using the basic Kuta strike. That will be explained in detail under Kuta Basics but the aspect that is central to Aiki is explained here. The strike is extremely important because it coordinates Nage's movement and gets Nage into the correct position. Correct position is essential in Aiki. Arif Mehter Sensei told me that in Aikido there are three important factors. They are:

1. Position

2. Position

3. Position

The steps for the Entry are shown below for Omote and for Ura. Nage starts on the line of attack, moves off the line enough to avoid colliding with Uke, and pivots the rear leg while striking.

Fig. 1 Entry Step With Strike To Rear		Fig. 2 Entry Step With Strike To Front.

Example

Movie of the Example.

If the strike lands properly Nage's job is basically done. Even if the strike does not land well Uke has to deal with the strike helping to disturb Uke's balance. This section shows Nage stepping with the front foot. Nage can also step with the rear foot but either way the first strike is with the lead hand. From this entry step Nage immediately takes Uke's balance.

Fig. 3 Starting Position		Fig. 4 Front Foot Lands		Fig. 5 Rear foot pivots to side

Figures 3, 4 and 5 show a person entering Aikido style using a Kuta strike. The spin of the body is the key to this movement.

The spin has 3 functions:

1. Powers the strike.

2. Moves Nage off of the line of attack.

3. Reflects most of the energy if Nage is hit.

The way Nage's feet are used for the strike are very important. If Nage pivots on the balls of Nage's feet then the pivot will carry Nage off of the line of attack.

Fig. 6 Initial Hammi		Fig. 7 Pivoting on Ball of Foot		Fig. 8 End of Pivot

1. Fig. 6 shows the initial stance.

2. In Fig. 7 Nage has started pivoting on the lead foot.

3. In Fig. 8 Nage has completed the pivot.

4. The critical factor is to pivot on the ball of the foot.

5. This can be done standing facing the edge of a door or door frame. Have the lead foot beside the door and your body directly in front of the door. When the pivot is complete you will not have hit the door and you will be standing beside the door. You have avoided the attack.

6. If Nage pivots on Nage's heels Nage will not move to the side and remain directly in the line of attack.

7. Nage must attack. If Nage moves off to the side in a defensive manner it is easy and natural for Uke to follow Nage.

Most entering movements in Aikido use this method. There are some rare exceptions. If Nage is going to step back for Tenshim or Ushiro then Nage does not step forward for the strike.