Aikijutsu

Aikijutsu, dominating spirit art, is a form of unarmed combat based largely on the sword. Techniques are divided into two major categories: immobilizations and projections. Techniques from these categories include nage (throws), ude osae (arm pins), kote gaeshi (wrist locks), ukemi (break falls) and many others. Techniques utilizing the bokken (wooden sword), tanto (knife), and jo (4-foot staff) are also taught.

At first glance the techniques taught may resemble modern aikido. This resemblance is only superficial however. Aikijutsu is a battlefield art created in the 12^th century by the Minamoto clan and passed down over time as a secret art. The goal is to smoothly blend with an attack in order to dominate the opponent, not only physically but spiritually as well.