How to Assume a Ready Stance in Aikido

The ready stance is a basic stance used for defending. In aikido, the ready stance is similar to a front stance.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

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1. Face forward, maintaining a straight posture with your upper body. Keep your shoulders square.

2. Place one leg forward, bending the knee slightly.

3. Place the other leg to the back, about one and a half steps behind, keeping it straight.

4. Be sure both feet face forward (ai-hanmi) and both heels touch the floor.

5. Distribute about 60 percent of your weight over the front foot; 40 percent over the back foot.

6. Bend your elbows slightly, arms to the side.

Tips & Warnings

• There is a right hanmi, or migi hanmi, and a left hanmi, or hidari hanmi.
• When the hands are placed in front of the body, it's called kamae, or a fighting stance.
• If you have any condition that would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity.

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on 12/19/2005 Ai-hamni (and it's opposite gyaku-hamni) refer to the relationship between your stance, and your partner's stance. In ai-hamni you both have your right foot forward, or you both have your left foot forward. In gyaku hanmi one has a right foot forward and the other, a left foot.