Aikijutsu at kōseki

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Yamate-ryū® Aikijutsu is a refined art of unarmed combat rooted in Daitō-ryū Aikijujutsu and closely connected to the principles of Japanese swordsmanship. Unlike many martial arts that emphasize raw speed and strength, aikijutsu develops precise, efficient movement—where power is applied only after mastery of form. When executed correctly, many techniques require just a few ounces of pressure to achieve decisive results. 

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Students learn to neutralize attacks through throws, pins, and joint locks, controlling opponents through mechanical structure rather than brute force or pain. This makes aikijutsu an art of skill, not strength—accessible to all ages and body types. The goal is complete control of an aggressor, physically and mentally, while allowing the option to deter, restrain, or redirect with minimal harm. These qualities make aikijutsu especially valuable for women, law enforcement officers, and anyone drawn to sophisticated, effective technique. 

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Aikijujutsu was first opened to the public in the early 20th century by Takeda Sokaku, under the name Daitō-ryū. Today, more than 30 distinct styles of aikijujutsu and aikido exist, each with its own emphasis on technique and philosophy. While aikijutsu and aikido share a common heritage, Yamate-ryū® maintains a clear distinction: we seek insight through rigorous, honest training in the dojo, not through religious or esoteric belief. 

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To deepen unarmed practice, Yamate-ryū® incorporates training with the bokken (wooden sword), jō (staff), and tantō (wooden knife). These weapons are used not for combat alone, but to illuminate and refine the underlying principles of aikijutsu. 

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Required equipment is simple: a proper uniform and a bokken.