Beginners AIKIDO, 1st Period part2 Aikido Basic Movement

In this session, we practice back Ukemi. Start by sitting in a position holding your knees (Sitting on the floor holding your knees), round your back, and tuck your chin to protect yourself. Roll backward and return to the starting position. By keeping your back rounded, you absorb the impact. Next, place your right foot under your left leg, and roll back with your left sole facing the ceiling. Repeat this movement to get accustomed to it. Move into a kneeling position (Kiza), tuck your chin, and roll backward, then return to the kneeling position. Smooth movements help to absorb the impact effectively.

Next, we learn footwork techniques. Start in a Migi-hanmi stance, pull your front foot back into a kneeling position (Kiza), and then roll backward, returning to the kneeling stance. Ensure your front foot is not too close to your back foot to avoid putting too much weight on your knee. Return to Migi-hanmi and repeat. Understand the difference between Ai-hanmi (same stance) and Gyaku-hanmi (Hidari-hanmi and Migi-hanmi), as the movements vary accordingly. Practice Okuri ashi (sliding step), Tenkai-soku (pivot step), and Tenkan-soku (turning step) to master these fundamental movements, crucial for executing techniques. Even advanced practitioners emphasize the importance of basic movements, so practice them diligently.