Fundamental movements and steps which are used for repositioning.
Tai-sabaki is a collective term for a number of movements, though it is often more specifically used for the Irimi-tenkan movement. Tai-sabaki movements and step sequences are carried out in an upright posture, and they are usually practised from a standing position. Their goal is to exercise movements that help Tori leave the line of attack, enter or blend with Uke's movement.
The following list comprises the most common movements:
- Ayumi-ashi or Irimi-ashi (straight step)
- Tsugi-ashi (gliding step or lunge)
- Tenkan (180-degree turn on one foot)
- Kaiten or Tenkai (180-degree turn of the hip, feet stay grounded)
- Irimi-tenkan (step, followed by a Tenkan movement)
- Irimi-Kaiten (step, followed by a Kaiten movement)
- Shikko (walking on the knees)
Search "Basic Forms" page for videos showing TAI-SABAKI
Terms used:
Uke, Shikko, Tori, Tenkan, Kaiten, Ayumi-Ashi, Tsugi-Ashi, Irimi-Tenkan, Irimi-Kaiten
