The Importance of Studying Ukemi in Aikido as a Way of Avoiding Injury

Abstract

The presented article provides an analysis of one of the key concepts of eastern martial arts – ukemi, i.e. body insurance based on the principle of balance maintaining. The importance of ukemi, as well as its study and the correct performance of technique, is determined in order to preserve the health of aikido athletes, avoid injuries and, as a result, the possibility of continuing a full-fledged practice not only until adulthood, but also until old age.
 In the given research there was revealed and characterized the state of physical culture and sports activities of aikido athletes, which is based on the interaction of two partners (uke and nage), who performing different motor actions, in fact both equally take part in practicing a certain technique, movement or throw. The effectiveness of this work depends both on the actions of the nage, and on the readiness of the uke to lose balance, performing appropriate ukemi, in order not only to respond adequately and in time to the reception, but also to restore it quickly enough, demonstrating the readiness to attack and interact with the partner again. It was found that the ability of the uke to relax in time and feel the so-called musubi – a concept that combines both timing and the intuitive feeling of the partner, and not only predicts an adequate reaction to a certain physical impact, that contributes to the better practice of various types of ukemi body insurance. In addition, it has been established that better performance of ukemi is also facilitated by flexibility of the body, which also requires additional training both individually and in pairs. An important aspect is the fact that the technique of performing ukemi remains constant, regardless of the surface on which the body protection is performed. The same constantness must be held whether the uke knows what technique will be performed now, whether the partner is his regular partner, or whether they are working together for the first time, and whether the performed technique is demonstrated with or without a weapon.
 Based on their own experience of practicing and teaching aikido, the authors of this article emphasize the importance of learning ukemi in aikido as a primary motor skill that should be learned by an aikidokas, regardless of their age and previous experience in both general physical training and martial arts.
 The results of the presented research can be used in preparation for aikido certifications at all levels, as well as during current training in any period of the annual cycle.