Kihon Waza is the “basic technique”; the pure form
executed when you receive an attack, or when you are being grabbed
firmly. The Founder recommended that this level – Kotai – be studied intensely until Sandan
(3rd dan or 3rd degree black belt). In Kihon Waza no variation either
in the execution or direction of the technique is permitted.
Ki No Nagare Waza includes all the “flowing
techniques”, or techniques executed in motion. Tori blends with his
partner’s attack or grab and executes the controlling or throwing
technique without interruption till the end. There are different and
increasing levels of Ki No Nagare Waza for each series of techniques.
The Founder recommended beginning the practice of Ki No Nagare Waza only
from Sandan onwards.
Oyo Waza literally means “techniques of
application”, that is to say when you are grabbed or attacked in a
particular or disadvantageous way, or by a very strong opponent, or by a
taller or shorter opponent, you are required to “adapt” the basic
technique without significant variations.
Henka Waza means “techniques of variation”. In this
series, which are considered advanced techniques and should only be
practiced once the basic techniques (Kihon Waza) and the flowing techniques (Ki No Nagare Waza)
have been consolidated very well, it is possible to recognize the main
principle of the basic techniques from which they are derived, but the
execution is either completely or slightly different.
Kanren Waza is comprised of a series of “linked techniques”. This means, for example, that while Tori is executing a basic technique, the situation changes, Uke reacts in an unanticipated way, or falls and then gets up again; Tori
now has to continue by applying another technique. During the execution
it is possible to link more than two techniques together.
Kaeshi Waza literally means “techniques of reaction or of response”. The Founder considered these techniques to be secret (Himitsu Waza),
not to be shown in public and to be taught only to a few, very trusted
students toward the end of their training life. This tradition, not only
typical of Aikido, is derived from the fact that a Master, even if
highly skilled, could run the risk of encountering an opponent of
superior skill, or may encounter one of the most painful conditions:
confronting one of his own deshi (students). This series of very special techniques represented the last chance to win and survive. Usually, Kaeshi Waza
are applied when the opponent makes a mistake or if he hesitates and,
if executed in a proper way, they do not allow a further reaction from Uke.
