Archives: Glossary Terms

Ai-uchi is a mutual strike where both combatants hit each other—often fatally. Considered a strategic failure in classical swordsmanship.

Sashi-ai is a classical martial-arts term meaning “mutual thrusting” or “mutual engagement,” where two practitioners extend or attack simultaneously, meeting in a contest of timing and initiative.

Morote 諸手 means both hands used together. In martial arts, it refers to using two hands to reinforce one point—grabbing one arm with both hands, applying a two-hand block, or driving a reinforced thrust.

In martial arts, ryōte 両手 refers to using both hands together in a coordinated, paired, or equal manner, such as grabbing with one hand on each side.

Dan 段 is a graded level or stage of advancement in Japanese arts, especially martial arts.

Shugyō 修行 is the life-encompassing ascetic training and discipline aimed at personal transformation.

Kufū 工夫 is creative ingenuity in training; the application of personal insight and intelligent effort to refine technique.

Tanren 鍛錬 is intensive martial training designed to forge and harden body and spirit, like tempering steel through repeated hammering.

Keiko 稽古 means practice or training through the study and transmission of classical tradition; literally “to reflect on the past.”

Shūren 修練 is training aimed at refining both skill and character through disciplined, self-cultivating practice.

Renshū 練習 is repetitive training and practice for technical improvement through refinement and repetition; the standard modern term for “practice.”

Aikidō is a Japanese martial art that blends with an opponent’s force to control and throw them without relying on strength.

Tabi 足袋 are traditional Japanese split-toe socks. Literally “foot bag,” from 足 (foot) and 袋 (pouch).

Ai-uchi 相打ち is a mutual strike in which both opponents hit each other simultaneously.

Bu 武 is the principle of disciplined martial power used to prevent chaos, guided by ethics, self-control, and responsibility.

Chi 地 means Earth. Composed of 土 (earth/soil) and 也 (phonetic). Represents ground, stability, and foundation in both language and martial arts philosophy.

Chiburi (血振り) is a ritual motion in Japanese sword arts representing the shaking of blood from the blade after a cut, symbolizing composure, readiness, and completion of a combative action.