Mutual Destruction in Martial Arts

What does “mutual destruction” have to do with modern martial arts?

There are a number of things to consider concerning ai-uchi. In a sportive contest of point-taking, like kendo or karate, it's a lot of fun to just go at it and strike the opponent without fear of much bodily injury, thanks to rules and protective gear. But the samurai were a conservative lot. Their philosophy of fighting and combat—which may surprise modern day martial arts people who strut and preen about their willingness to fight with anybody—was very, very reserved.

Their conclusions were that there were three things that can result from a real battle, and two out of three were very, very bad. The good result is if you win and the other side dies. The really bad result is if the other guy wins and you die, and finally the third is still bad news for you; ai-uchi is when both of you kill each other off.

Now, two out of three chances of killing your enemy might not be bad if you're fighting to defend someone else, and you're willing to sacrifice yourself to save your lord and/or loved ones from the enemy attacker, as long as you destroy the other guy. But in terms of self-preservation, these are really lousy odds.

So really philosophical warriors, who thought about the consequences a lot, were quite reluctant to engage in real combat at the jump of the hat. Even if they were technically very good, there's no telling what chance and luck may bring to you . . . you could slip on a banana peel, for example, and so the lousiest warrior for the other side could take your head. If he did have to go into battle, the classical warrior was pretty much resigned to accepting the fact that the odds were two to one that he'd be dead come the next day, all other things being equal. 

Say you have overwhelming firepower. You can maneuver as you want to outflank the enemy and obtain every advantage, which one might say is a kind of philosophy of outmaneuvering and unbalancing. But if the enemy and you meet on a field of battle, and he attacks you at the same time you attack, you will probably absorb some losses. But if you can destroy the opponent, whacking him harder than he whacks you, you will win the day. So, in this battlefield ai-uchi, you will accept some losses with the intention of inflicting a lot more losses on the enemy as both of you attack at the same time.

In real life terms, perhaps it means that no matter what, you win some, and you lose some. And sometimes you get just as much as you give. Or more.

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SMAA offers five divisions of authentic Japanese martial arts: aikido, iaido, judo, jujutsu, and karate-do. If you’re looking to earn a karate black belt certificate or start a new martial art, give us a call at (734) 720-0330 or submit a contact form here. We look forward to helping you develop your art!

A Brief Introduction to Ai-Uchi

Have you ever heard the term “ai-uchi” used in your martial art?

There is a term you will sooner or later hear in Japanese martial arts called ai-uchi. It is often used in kendo; fencing with bamboo staves, but you may hear it in old-fashioned karate schools and the like. Ai-uchi, to most practitioners, simply means the two sides strike each other at the same time, so their points cancel out each other in a contest.

Sasama Yoshihiko, in Zusetsu Nihon Budo Jiten, offers a more in-depth definition. One old meaning of the term is actually a kind of gangtackling an enemy. When two or more people attack a single enemy at once, it is called ai-uchi, the ai (meaning “mutuality”) now meaning “group” attack. Like a kind of “swarming” used by police to subdue an unruly prisoner. Old records document instances of sannin-ai-uchi (three against one) and two against one attacks on the battlefield, in which groups of two or three footmen gang up and take down one samurai.

But the meaning of most importance to martial artists is the concept of ai-uchi as “mutual strikes.” Your strike hits the opponent the same time as he strikes you. So theoretically, both of you die.

Earn Karate Black Belt Certificates and More!

SMAA offers five divisions of authentic Japanese martial arts: aikido, iaido, judo, jujutsu, and karate-do. If you’re looking to earn a karate black belt certificate or start a new martial art, give us a call at (734) 720-0330 or submit a contact form here. We look forward to helping you develop your art!

The Benefits of Paired Kata

Have you ever heard of a paired kata?

The teaching and practice of paired kata is meant to communicate, among other things, how swordsmen interact in contest. Moreover, prescribed paired kata provides the context to highlight and practice some combative principles in isolation and makes them accessible to a wider audience. This complements a student’s education in solo practice, where one focuses on more intrapersonal aspects. For example, in solo practice we study body mechanics, such as methods for putting force into the sword, while in paired practice we study the dynamics of distance between swordsmen and its implication on the outcome of a contest. Aside from what is transmitted through the kata, we can gain additional insight into the aspects of swordsmanship particular to paired practice through the writings of skilled swordsmen, such as Miyamoto Musashi and Yagyu Munenori, and through first-hand experience under the appropriate restrictions to maintain safety, e.g. kendo. 

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SMAA offers five divisions of authentic Japanese martial arts: aikido, iaido, judo, jujutsu, and karate-do. If you want to part of a prestigious international martial arts association, give us a call at (734) 720-0330 or submit a contact form here. We look forward to helping you develop your art!

Iaido and the Three Initiatives

How much do you know about iaido?

While modern iaido consists principally of solo practice, there are a number of paired kata in Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu iaido (founded in the late Muromachi period, circa 1590). These kata take the form of ordered sets of waza (“techniques”) in which the practitioners act out martial scenarios. First among these is Tachi Uchi no Kurai (太刀打之位, “The State of Crossing Swords/The State of Striking Swords”). Tachi Uchi no Kurai is performed by two practitioners each using a single long sword. 

Musashi’s Three Initiatives and Munenori’s Three Rhythms describe the relationship of intention, decision-making, and action between two swordsmen in contest. Musashi’s Three Initiatives are the Initiative of Attack, the Initiative of Waiting, and the Body-Body Initiative. Musashi writes, “The Initiative of Attack is when I attack my opponent. The Initiative of Waiting is when my opponent attacks me. The Body-Body Initiative is when both my opponent and I attack at the same time.”

To explain this principle more fully, we turn to Takuan Soho, who writes, “To speak in terms of your own martial art, when you first notice the sword that is moving to strike you, if you think of meeting that sword just as it is, your mind will stop at the sword in just that position, your own movements will be undone, and you will be cut down by your opponent. This is what stopping means.” Thus, we understand that in a rapidly changing environment one must constantly absorb information about what is happening and make quick decisions about how to adapt. To draw an analogy to chess or the Japanese board game of go, one must endeavor to play a few moves ahead. If the environment changes too rapidly, one misunderstands, or if he lets his mind dwell on something then he is more likely to make poor decisions or be unable to adapt. Soho calls this dwelling “stopping,” “attachment,” or “sickness of the mind.”

Learn Iaido at an International Martial Arts Association!

SMAA offers five divisions of authentic Japanese martial arts: aikido, iaido, judo, jujutsu, and karate-do. If you want to part of a prestigious international martial arts association, give us a call at (734) 720-0330 or submit a contact form here. We look forward to helping you develop your art!

Kano Sensei's Books

Are you interested in the history of Japanese martial arts?

On his way to becoming a renowned Japanese educator, martial artist, and the founder of judo, Kano Sensei made significant contributions to the world of martial arts and physical education. A part of his legacy lives on through the books he authored. Let's summarize each one:

• Judo Kyohan (The Kodokan Judo Textbook)

Judo Kyohan is one of Kano Sensei's most influential works and serves as a comprehensive (though somewhat outdated) guide to the art of judo. In it, Kano Sensei outlines the principles and techniques, providing detailed explanations and illustrations. It covers not only the physical aspects of judo but also its philosophical and ethical foundations. Throughout the book, Kano Sensei emphasized the timeless concept of "maximum efficiency, minimum effort," known as seiryoku zenyo, which is a fundamental principle of judo. Judo Kyohan has been instrumental in spreading knowledge of judo around the world and remains a classic for both beginners and advanced judoka.

• Kodokan Judo: The Essential Guide to Judo by its Founder

Kodokan Judo is another important work by Professor Kano. It offers a comprehensive overview of judo's history, philosophy, and techniques. This book highlights the evolution of judo from its traditional roots to the modern sport it became under Kano Sensei's guidance. It includes detailed descriptions of Judo techniques and training methods. Kano Sensei's approach to judo as a means of physical and moral education is a central theme, as it was in all his judo work. He explored the concepts of jita kyoei (“mutual benefit”) as well as seiryoku zenyo (“maximum efficiency”) as the guiding principles of judo and emphasized their relevance in everyday life.

• Mind Over Muscle: Writings from the Founder of Judo

Mind Over Muscle is a collection of Kano Sensei's writings, including essays, articles, and speeches that provide valuable insights into his philosophy and his vision for judo. Kano Sensei believed that judo should not be limited to physical combat but should also contribute to personal and societal development. He discussed the importance of mental discipline, character development, and the moral aspects of martial arts, which shed light on his efforts to promote judo as a way to build both physical and moral strength.

Kano Sensei’s books are not only important resources for judo practitioners but also valuable contributions to the broader fields of physical education, martial arts philosophy, and personal development. Kano Sensei's emphasis on principles of efficiency and personal development highlights his commitment to the idea that judo is more than a sport; it is a path to physical and moral improvement. His writings continue to inspire martial artists and educators around the world, carrying forward the legacy of one of the most influential figures in the history of martial arts.

Read More from an International Martial Arts Association

Did you enjoy reading about the Extraordinary Professor Kano? 

An international martial arts association can teach you more than just the physical moves! The SMAA Journal provides monthly articles and insights on the world of martial arts, and there are stacks of books written by our staff that you can learn from! To get started on your martial arts journey, call (734) 720-0330 or submit a contact form here.

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Professor Kano's Early Life and Education

What do you know about the history of Judo?

Kano Jigoro Sensei was the founder of Kodokan judo. While he’s mainly known for his contributions to the world of martial arts and physical education, his abilities and his influence extended far beyond sports and the dojo. He was not just a visionary in the martial arts world, he was also instrumental in the careers of many other famous martial artists, as well as a significant figure in the political landscape of Japan during a crucial period of its history. When we’re celebrating this remarkable man, we should not miss the opportunity to showcase his works, his connections, and involvement in education, international diplomacy, and physical fitness as a means of fostering national pride and unity.

Kano Sensei was born in 1860 in Mikage, a small town near Kobe, Japan. He grew up during the Meiji Restoration, a period when Japan was undergoing rapid modernization and a transition from a feudal society to an industrialized nation. It was a time of significant political and social change. This historical backdrop had a powerful effect on Kano Sensei's political outlook and ambitions.

His education also played a pivotal role in shaping his political beliefs. At university, he was exposed to Western ideas and the newly evolving approaches to education, governance, and cultural change. He graduated from Tokyo Imperial University with a degree in political science and economics. These two influences proved instrumental in his later political endeavors.

Further Your Cultural Education at an International Martial Arts Association

Did you enjoy reading about the Extraordinary Professor Kano? 

An international martial arts association can teach you more than just the physical moves! The SMAA Journal provides monthly articles and insights on the world of martial arts, and there are stacks of books written by our staff that you can learn from! To get started on your martial arts journey, call (734) 720-0330 or submit a contact form here.

Japanese Swords: the Meiji Period Onwards

Is the katana the only Japanese sword you’ve heard of? There’s actually a lot more!

Blades made from the ninth year of Meiji (1868-1912) until present day are referred to as gendaito (modern swords). As of the Hatorei decree in 1876 (banning civilians from wearing swords), the need for swords declined. However, in Meiji 39 (1906), the craft gained imperial patronage. The sword smiths Gassan Sadakazu and Miyamoto Kanenori were appointed Tei Shitsu Gi Gei In (craftsmen by imperial appointment—equivalent to National Living Treasure). Since then, the sword smith’s craft has continued through the Meiji, Taisho (1912-1926), Showa (1926-1989), and Heisei (1989-) eras until today. Today’s sword smiths try to recreate the workmanship of eminent smiths of every period, regardless of whether they are koto, shinto, or shin-shinto. In particular, recreations of tachi of the Kamakura period are a popular aim for many modern sword smiths.

To read more, download volume 20, issue 3 of the “SMAA Journal” in our library.

Choose an Authentic Martial Arts Association

SMAA offers five divisions of authentic Japanese martial arts: aikido, iaido, judo, jujutsu, and karate-do. If you’re looking for a new martial arts association to kickstart the new year, give us a call at (734) 720-0330 or submit a contact form here. We look forward to helping you develop your art!