Koshi waza

 

Koshi-waza is a technique when properly executed creates an air of dynamic movement but also symbolizes the principles of Yin and Yang. It's a technique that requires accurate timing and spatial awareness to work efficiently. It is not the easiest technique to use immediately from an "attack" except perhaps, as a combination movement. The most common "attack" where Koshi-waza can be directly applied is Shomen -uchi where the movements of Uke and Nage are natural enough to blend for the successful execution of the technique.

So, what makes Koshi-waza work? Certain fundamental principles have to be aware of, principles give the technique that extra bit of polish and allow both parties the chance, to experience the move. Timing and distance are crucial and have been covered adequately in other articles on this site. The point to remember is, that even though Koshi-waza is recognized as a "hip-technique", in reality, it is more of a "back-carrying" movement. This point will make it easier to understand the technique. In Judo, the hip plays an important part in performing the many variations of hip throws. Certainly, the judoka will find it easier to lift someone, however, the conditions that prevail in judo do differ in Aikido, but in essence, the principles are the same. Usually in Judo, Uke is held on for follow-up ground techniques whereas in Aikido, Uke is projected. 

In Judo the contestants are required to hold making it easier to draw one's "opponent" off balance and to control the position required, to lift and effect a throw. This physical contact may not be present in an Aikido "attack", yet the principal has to be present. Both arts require a committed response, however, in Aikido, Nage needs to create a void without physical contact. By instantly moving in with Atemi, Uke will respond, and if the timing is right Uke will not only be drawn off balance but also in a position to allow Nage to perform Koshi-waza. It should become effortless because the execution of the technique depends on posture, balance, and applying the Laws of the Universe.

Once Uke's balance is broken, Nage can apply the Laws of Physics and Gravity through certain mechanical movements. Nage needs to get his center point just below of Uke's (this center point is known as the "Tanden" - it is also the center of our Ki energy). Nage does this by bending his knees until he feels Uke's body across his back. Without stopping he straightens his legs and allows Uke's movement to carry him into the created "void".

The position of the legs will depend on the nature of the attack and the physical build of the Uke, (in Judo the feet tend to be placed between Uke's to get the maximum power in the lift and maintain balance. Learn to lift with the legs rather than with the back. Attempting to lift with the legs rather than the back, which is not designed to cope with this sort of lift can lead to injury. Using the correct procedure to lift retains stability while weight, even of twice the body weight of Nage can be held for long periods. There is no reason why even a small person or someone of lighter build, should not be able to lift anybody to perform Koshi-waza, or any other variation of hip-throw.

The movement must be smooth from the start of the "attack" to Uke's completion of his fall, which must not appear hard or aggressive. Uke is projected in such a way that allows him to rise up and continue his action unlike Judo, where Uke is thrown in such a manner to restrict his movements so that he can be held down on his back. The Koshi-waza in both arts are correct, it's just the objectives are different; hence the methods are different.

As mentioned, Koshi-waza's are not easy to perform in Aikido, except perhaps with the Shomen-uchi type "attacks". However, Koshi-waza's are perfect when used as an “accompanying” technique or follow-up to other Aikido movements. Performing Kakari Keiko and Taninzu waza helps to create the unbroken flow of movement and Ki energy required in Aikido. Koshi-waza can be described as a "link-up" technique because it can change the plane of the circular movements that are so familiar in Aikido.

The most common mistake made when practicing Koshi-waza is that it is usually practiced as a "static technique" causing one to rely on strength or Uke taking a natural "dive". No one actually learns anything and restricting oneself to this form of training deprives, both Uke and Nage, of experiencing something unique. The student is advised to experiment with movement and incorporate the Koshi-waza technique into their training. Practice slowly so that every aspect of the Aikido movement can be experienced. Be aware of breathing and of course timing and distance.

With the correct approach, there is no reason why beginners cannot work with the experienced in learning this technique, without them feeling inadequate or suffering unnecessary anxiety. Koshi-waza which is performed, without regard to our partners, can be painful and devastate a person's self-confidence. For someone who has never gone over from a Koshi-waza, it can be quite an unnerving experience so it is important to remember our partner's limitations and initial fears. Koshi-waza should be performed without rigid awkwardness but with the creative expression of individual perceptiveness that the technique deserves.