How to Assume a Fighting Stance in Aikido (Ai-gamae)

The fighting stance is a basic stance used for attacking and defending. In most styles it is a side-facing stance, but in Aikido, the fighting stance (Ai-gamae) is similar to a front stance.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Martial Arts Supplies
• Martial Arts Uniforms
• Martial Arts Videos

1. Face the front, 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 1 1/2 steps behind. Keep 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 your front foot; 40 percent over your back foot.

6. Hold your arms outstretched in front of you, but don't overextend the elbows.

7. Open your fingers. Hold upper and lower hands along a centered, vertical line.

8. Keep your upper hand level with your chest. Keep your lower hand one fist length from your stomach.

Tips & Warnings

• Point the fingers of both hands at the base of the attacker's throat.
• The distance between the attacker and the defender is called "ma-ai." When you practice, it's important to keep the proper ma-ai of about 1.8 meters to execute each technique correctly.
• Be careful not to overextend your elbows when practicing this 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.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!

on 8/8/2006 Stand side on. If you stand square on, then you are presenting a large target. Whereas if you stand side on, then you have less of a target. I also want to say: don't have a fist clenched tight. Have it slightly open because you can get more power behind it, and if you hold your fist sideways, when you go to punch turn your hand so that it is horizontal.

on 6/30/2006 Don't stand square on. Stand side on. If you stand square on then you are presenting a large target. Whereas if you stand side on, then you present less of a target. I also want to say: don't have a fist clenched tight. Have it slightly open because you can get more power behind it if you hold your fist sideways. When you go to punch, turn your hand so it is horizontal.