Center in Aikido:

Often referred to as hara, which translates to “lower abdomen” but represents your body’s center of gravity and source of power.

Moving from your center means initiating movement from your core, not just your limbs.

This creates stability, rootedness, and allows you to generate explosive power when necessary.

How Centered Movement Shows Up in Aikido:

Footwork: Initiating steps from the hara, with the feet following the body’s rotation for smooth and efficient movement.

Posture: Maintaining a strong, upright posture with a slight forward bend, allowing for balance and quick changes in direction.

Tai sabaki: This refers to body movement in Aikido. Techniques involve circular movements, blending with the attacker’s energy, rather than opposing it directly. Centered movement allows for these flowing, circular motions.

Benefits of Centered Movement:

Improved balance and stability: Makes you harder to knock off balance during an attack.

Increased power: Generates more power for throws and takedowns.

Efficiency of movement: Reduces wasted energy and allows for quicker reactions.

Mental focus: Maintaining a centered mind and body connection improves concentration and awareness.

Trying Centered Movement:

Simple exercises: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, focus on tightening your core and feel your breath move your abdomen. Practice basic movements like stepping forward or turning while maintaining core engagement.

Imagine a root: Visualize a root extending from your hara down to the ground, providing stability and grounding your movement.