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Suri-ashi

What is Suri-ashi?

Suri-ashi is a fundamental footwork technique used in various Japanese martial arts, including Kendo, Iaido, and Aikido. The term "suri-ashi" translates to "sliding feet" or "gliding step." This technique involves moving smoothly and efficiently across the floor while maintaining balance, stability, and readiness for both offensive and defensive actions.

Here are the key elements of suri-ashi:

  1. Sliding Motion: In suri-ashi, the feet slide along the ground rather than being lifted. This minimizes unnecessary movement and helps maintain a low, stable center of gravity.
  2. Posture: Proper posture is crucial. The practitioner should keep their back straight, knees slightly bent, and body relaxed yet alert. The head should be up, and the eyes should be focused on the opponent.
  3. Foot Placement: The lead foot (usually the right foot in Kendo) moves first, sliding forward while the back foot follows, maintaining the same distance between the feet. The feet should remain parallel and close to the ground.
  4. Balance and Stability: Suri-ashi helps maintain balance and stability, which are essential for executing techniques effectively and responding to an opponent's movements. The weight should be evenly distributed, allowing for quick changes in direction.
  5. Readiness: This footwork technique ensures that the practitioner is always in a ready stance, prepared to attack, defend, or evade as needed.

In Kendo, suri-ashi is particularly important because it allows practitioners to move quickly and efficiently while maintaining the proper distance (maai) from their opponent. It also enables smooth transitions between offensive and defensive actions, making it a foundational skill for effective swordsmanship.

Overall, suri-ashi is a critical component of many Japanese martial arts, emphasizing the importance of smooth, controlled movement and readiness in combat.

Related Article: Kendo: The Way of the Sword in Japanese Martial Arts

Human beings are capable of virtually limitless degradation; they are also capable of virtually limitless improvement and achievement. Success depends on goals and on diligence in pursuing them.
Mas Oyama

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