The Densho of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu

System, Philosophy & Principles

Andrew Yiannakis, Ph.D.
Founder (Ryuso) and Soke of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu
7th Dan, Jujutsu (USJJF, AJA)
6th Dan, Judo (USJJF)

v5.2, 12-22-2010 Copyright (c) 2000 by A. Yiannakis

Introduction

Forged on the battlefields of feudal Japan Jujutsu is the original integrated "mixed" martial art. Rooted in this classical tradition Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu retains the best of the old ways but, as an evolved system for the 21st century its FIVE MAJOR GOALS are to:

(i) Develop personal discipline, responsibility, self understanding, loyalty, and self control, among others;

(ii) Serve as a way of life (the Budo Way of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu);

(iii) Develop effective defensive and offensive skills and strategies;

(iv) Empower the individual both physically and psychologically, and;

(v) Serve as a lifelong path to self actualization in the physical, psychological and spiritual domains.

Training in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu, therefore, transcends the acquisition of deadly skills and combat techniques. The system aims to develop the individual holistically and focuses on the "perfection of character" and the attainment of self actualization in the physical, psychological and spiritual domains.

Effective teaching in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu integrates, therefore, the study of skill and technique with history, philosophy and ethical principles, and stresses the development of the whole person.

The system is based on, and driven by several major principles. The 12 Guiding Principles (Code of Honor or the Budo Way of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu) speak to ethical forms of conduct, personal responsibility, expectations and desirable forms of behavior. They outline the ideals of the system and help lay out guidelines regarding the kind of people we strive to become as martial artists.

The 7 System Principles address various technical areas regarding combat strategy, execution of technique, power generation, and the like.

Short and Long Term Goals Of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu

Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu has both short and long term goals. These

are:

Short Term Goals

To acquire effective combative and self defense skills and

develop strength, speed, flexibility, endurance, coordination and

good health. At this stage we also aim to place the student on

"the path" to self actualization by laying the foundations for

subsequent growth and development in the physical,

psychological and spiritual domains.

Long Term Goals

The practice of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu contributes to mind body

harmony, self control and discipline, self confidence and inner

strength. It harnesses and harmonizes the power of the mind

and body and enhances the power of the will. It is a means of

empowering the individual and contributes to self actualization

in the physical, psychological and spiritual domains.

To attain the goals of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu we employ an approach called the Four-fold Path. This involves:

(i) Meditation and introspection
(ii) Rigorous, diligent and frequent training in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu under the tutelage of a certified instructor
(iii) Practice and application of the principles of the system
(iv) A commitment to, and application of the philosophy of the system both in the dojo and in everyday life.

The System Of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu

The System Comprises 20 Interrelated Domains. These are:

1. Postures (Dachi), Fighting Stances (Shobu Gamae) and

Movement Patterns (Taisabaki)

2. Striking Techniques (Ate Waza)

3. Kicking Techniques (Keri Waza)

4. Strangling/Choking Techniques (Shime Waza)

5. Throwing Techniques (Nage Waza)

6. Joint Locking Techniques (Kansetsu Waza)

7. Holding Techniques (Osae Waza)

8. Pressure Point Techniques (Kyusho Waza)

9A. LEVELS OF RESPONSE IN (i) SELF DEFENSE, (ii) PLAY

(kumite/randori)

AND (iii) COMBATIVE CONTEXTS

Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu helps develop skills for self defense, for playing with rules (as in randori/kumite) and as an offensive/defensive combat art. As a budo system it is also a path to higher goals in the psychological and spiritual (ki power) domains.

Basic self defense skills are typically non-lethal but they can help the jujutsuka deal with attack situations by means of various verbal and non-verbal strategies that help defuse a situation, or restrain and/or cause pain to an assailant.

Wa Shin Ryu may also be practiced with rules for play, recreation, skill development and health and fitness. Under such situations only "legal techniques" may ne used to restrain, control or submit another person without causing injury. Sparring in the standing position (distance or close quarter) and on the ground are examples of such forms of play. Training under such conditions also helps with hand-eye coordination, contributes to quality of movement, helps develop faster reactions and enables students to learn the technical principles of the system. Such training is not intended to develop athletes for competition. Rather, it is used as a form of preparation for engaging in combat situations, the ultimate technical training goal of the art on the physical level (Students should keep in mind that Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu is first and foremost an urban and battlefield art, NOT a sport).

Combat on the other hand requires the application of skills and strategies developed in play and self defense contexts, and in special training sessions that stress the development of dangerous and lethal skills, as in levels 6 and 7 below (teaching of such techniques is restricted to brown and black belts).

It should be obvious by now that since Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu is a combat art and not a sport the ultimate goal of the system on a skills/strategic level is to take students through to level 7, the highest level of any combat art. However, Wa Shin Ryu is not simply a combat art (bujutsu); it is also a budo system that emphasizes the development of higher goals, values and attitudes. These speak to discipline, control, respect, empowerment, focus, self understanding, loyalty and responsibility, among others, as outlined in the 12 Guiding Principles and the FIVE major goals of the system (see beginning of this document). On a skills/strategy level, Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu recognizes and trains students in the use of SEVEN broad categories of response as they apply to (i) Self Defense (no rules); (ii) Play (kumite/randori) (with rules); and (iii) Combat Contexts (no rules).

(i) Self Defense Contexts

(ii) Play Contexts (kumite/randori)

Many such techniques are appropriate in kumite/randori (when playing).

Many such techniques are also appropriate in randori/kumite.

(iii) Combative Contexts

NOTE: Training for Levels 6 and 7 is restricted to brown and black belts

9B. Combative Initiatives and Defensive Responses


From Jodan (high), Chudan (middle) and Gedan (low) forms of attack/defense. In Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu a jujutsuka may employ a number of initiatives and/or responses in dealing with an attacker. They are listed below in increasing levels of difficulty/complexity. Such initiatives/responses are grounded in, and reflect the following 8 principles. These principles explain and define the workings of the following eight offensive intitatives and defensive responses. These are:

 

(i) Blocks (Uke Waza),
(ii) Evasions (Kaihi Waza),
(iii) Deflections (Sorasu Waza),
(iv) Joining (Aiki Waza),
(v) Sen (taking the initiative - first to attack using single technique or combinations)
(vi) Go No Sen (Counters: Tori blocks/defkects/evades or joins and counters after Uke initiates attack)
(vii) Sen No Sen (near simultaneous interceptions as a response to Uke's attack. Also known as Bogai Waza
(viii) Sen Sen No Sen (taking the initiative and controlling Uke by luring him/her into attacking -basically setting them up). The key component of Sen Sen No Sen, however, is that Uke is manipulated and controlled by Tori into believing that a real opportunity for attack actually exists. It doesn't!

At the higher levels students are expected to employ the above initiatives/responses in various combinations and not simply rely on a single type of offensive or defensive strategy.

 

10. Basic Techniques of the Bokken

11. Use of Kiai and proper breathing

12. Combinations (Renraku Waza and Renzoku Waza)

13. Break-falling Ways (Ukemi)

14. Formal Sequences (Kata)

15. Live Sparring (Kumite/Randori) in Distance, Close Quarter and Ground Contexts.

Live sparring is viewed as an essential component of the system in helping to prepare students for the realities of real combat and self defense. While set routines and kata teach essential principles and technique, which is how most classical systems used to train their students, effective application requires that students be trained to apply these under relatively realistic conditions. It should be noted here that Kano's success with judo over the traditional jujutsu systems in the now famous 1886 tournament was attributed primarily to his "new" method of training judoka, which he called randori (and we call kumite). Of course the fact that atemi was prohibited in this tournament undoubtedly served to handicap the jujutsu fighters even further and helped undermine their ability to hold their own against Kano's judo students.

16. Innovation, discovery and exploration of new techniques and strategies (Shu Ha Ri)

17. The 12 Guiding Principles (Code of Honor)

The system has TWELVE Guiding Principles and SEVEN System Principles. The Guiding Principles serve as our code of honor.

18. The 7 System Principles

1. General Principles of Combat Strategy (Heiho - 8 principles)
2. General Principles of Movement (Taisabaki Jo - 4 principles)
3. General Principles of Technique Execution (Kake Jo - 7 principles)
4. Principles of Power Generation (Ryoku Jo - 10 principles)
5. Principles of Distance Fighting (Tohma No Waza, 6 principles)
6. Principles of Close Quarter Fighting (Chikai No Waza, 8 principles)
7. Principles of Ground Fighting (Newaza, 7 principles)

 

19. Meditation and Introspection Techniques

20. Wa Shin Ryu Theory, Philosophy History and Research

(i) History of Jujutsu
(ii) History, origins and lineage of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu
(iii) Theory of warm-up and training principles
(iv) System, Philosophy and Principles
(v) Shuchu Ryoku (focused power)
(vi) Effects of martial arts training on psychological growth and development

The Three Contexts of Combat in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu

These are:

1. Distance Fighting (Tohma No Waza; no zones)

2. Close Quarter Fighting (Chikai No Waza from standing position).

Includes Zones 1 and 2.

(i) Front - Chikama No Waza
(ii) Rear - Ushiro No Waza
(iii) Side - Yoko No Waza

3. Ground Fighting (Ne Waza). Includes Zone 1 and Zone 2.

Ground fighting integrates joint locking (kansetsu waza), strangling (shime waza) and holding skills (osae waza) with atemi waza and pressure points (kyusho waza).

Zones of Fighting

In summary, in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu there are three contexts of fighting. These are Distance, Close Quarter and Ground fighting. Close Quarter fighting may take place standing or on the ground and is divided into two zones. These we call Zone 1 and Zone 2. Distance fighting has no zones and fighting in this context typically relies on the use of hands/arms and feet/legs for striking and kicking.

Standing and ground close quarter fighting may take place in two zones. These zones are characterized by the way Tori's body parts are used for leverage in the execution of technique. Typically, Zone 1 fighting from the standing position employs the application of leverage to the opponent's joints (e.g., the wrist or elbow) using mostly one's hands or arms. The absence of a tight fit between Tori's and Uke's bodies characterizes this method of fighting. Zone 2 requires the use of one's major body parts (e.g., thigh, hip, shoulder) for leverage. Typically, Zone 2 techniques require Tori to apply a tighter fit against Uke's body before/while executing technique. The Ogoshi is a fine example of Zone 2 style fighting while the Kote Gaeshi represents Zone 1 style fighting. In ground fighting Zone 1 is typically characterized by having the defender on his/her back or side and the assailant attacking from a standing or kneeling position. The defender may attempt to defend by blocking, kicking or tripping the assailant using own legs and/ or feet or by striking with fists or elbows. In Zone 2 ground fighting both attacker and defender are on the ground, often in some form of entanglement where one's body is tightly pressed against the other's.

* Distance, Close Quarter and Ground fighting are taught in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu by emphasizing the principles associated with each of the three contexts (see page 15). These principles are expressed in three katas called the Ikkyo No Kata, the Nikkyo No Kata and the Sankyo No Kata. These katas are paths or frameworks to the first, second and third set of principles of combat and their purpose is to prepare students to understand and master the complexities associated with Distance, Close Quarter and Ground fighting.

The Use of Atemi (body strikes)

Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu is a battlefield martial art that relies on unarmed combat techniques. It also employs atemi (but not minor weapons) as a prelude to entering for nagewaza, shime waza and kansetsu waza. Atemi is also used when initiating escapes from holding techniques. Thus while atemi plays an important role in the system it is nevertheless a secondary one to kumiuchi style fighting. Atemi is to be thought of as an essential strategic element which may be used to weaken, distract or temporarily incapacitate an assailant (to achieve kuzushi) before applying close quarter fighting techniques. Several other systems such as Takenouchi Ryu, Hade, Koppo, Kenpo Taijutsu and Shubaku, among others, also employ atemi as a precursor to kumiuchi.

Levels of Transmission of Knowledge

(Shoden, Chuden and Okuden)

The system is taught on three levels of transmission. These are: Shoden (First level transmissions) which includes all subject matter in the mudansha syllabus (non black belt); these corresponds to the ranks of Rokyu through Ikkyu. The Shoden level emphasizes the acquisition of technique and basic theoretical understanding.

Chuden is the second, or intermediate level of transmission. This level corresponds to the ranks of Shodan through Sandan and the emphasis is on the development of technical competency and effectiveness, and the acquisition of higher level theoretical insights. The third level is Okuden (major or deep level transmissions), and is characterized by superior technique, an in-depth understanding of the theory and principles, and a demonstration of an intuitive feel for the art. This level is ordinarily associated with the rank of Yodan (or higher).

The system does not possess "hidden secrets" (Okugi or Hiden) since there is no longer a need to maintain that level of secrecy to ensure one's survival. However, in feudal Japan the keeping of hidden transmissions was clearly a necessary practice because it helped ensure survival (and at times victory) on the field of battle.

Similar to Kano's early judo, the goal of Wa Shin Ryu is the actualization of the individual in the physical, psychological and spiritual domains. It is a system that contributes to the harnessing of the powers (and potential) that we all possess within us, and are capable of fashioning out of what we have been endowed with. Thus, the goal of the system is to empower us by helping develop all our faculties and abilities in the physical, psychological and spiritual domains. As such, it may be viewed as a system of "empowerment education". Thus actualized, we are then better able to be of value to ourselves and contribute to the betterment of the human condition.

The development and personal growth goals of the system are clearly incompatible with the possession of "hidden transmissions" which are primarily taught to a few select insiders, or members of the same clan or group. The goals of the system, which focus on personal growth and development in accordance with the 12 Guiding Principles, are also incompatible with the quest for medals and trophies. The pursuit of such rewards is seen as interfering with the higher goals of Wa Shin Ryu because such a pursuit focuses attention on extrinsic rewards and recognition, training to win in contest, and the like. The mindset and approach to training required for sport competition takes students in a different direction, a direction which is not totally in harmony with the goals of a martial art such as Wa Shin Ryu. Thus, while such goals and emphasis may be appropriate for sports, they have no place in true martial systems that stress self actualization. Having said that, if a student chooses to compete a few times a year and does not make competition the focus of his/her training, then this is acceptable because it is seen as a way of testing the effectiveness of one's skills, and thus an extension of in-club kumite.

The Role of Empowerment

Empowerment in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu is not just about learning to handle yourself in combative situations. It is about the development of all our potentialities in the physical, psychological and spiritual domains. More specifically, these domains can be further broken down in the following manner:

The Physical Domain

The diligent and rigorous practice of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu contributes to the development of strength, speed, balance, coordination, timing, flexibility and endurance. As such, it also contributes in significant ways to the maintenance of good health.

The Psychological Domain

Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu is an extremely challenging martial art. By successfully meeting the challenges posed by the system students develop confidence, will-power, commitment, discipline, perseverance, focus, self control and inner strength. Jujutsuka simply don't quit in the face of adversity. In addition, the system teaches, as part of its philosophy, a code of honor that includes the concepts of loyalty, commitment, keeping one's word, integrity, a caring for all living things, and a strong disdain for cruelty and gratuitous violence. Our philosophy also stresses the concept of succoring. As empowered individuals we are obligated to go to the aid of those less fortunate and provide assistance, be it in the form of protection, or emotional support. We do not stand by and abrogate our responsibilities while someone weaker is in need of our skills and help. We also stress the need to combine succoring with good judgment.

The Spiritual Domain (Ki Power)

The spiritual domain is not to be confused with any particular religion, or religious doctrine. Spiritual development in the martial arts, and in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu in particular, is about tapping into the life force that we all possess and employing it in the development of inner strength. It is about the discovery and proper use of Ki Power. The discovery of Ki Power is a noble and worthwhile journey and may take a lifetime to fully accomplish. We therefore hold this up as an ideal that we strive toward.

Philosophy of the Founder

The founder believes that all knowledge and skills are forms of power. Thus, they should be used to do good in the world. While this lesson is sometimes difficult to illustrate in everyday life, Wa Shin Ryu teaches this in no uncertain terms in combative situations. Once the lesson is learned that jujutsu knowledge is power, and power used wisely can be a force for good, the Wa Shin Ryu student will want to empower himself/herself by acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary to be able to do good in many spheres of human endeavor.

While the skills and techniques of Wa Shin Ryu (as with all martial arts) are clearly not appropriate in non violent situations, the inner strength, the mindset and the psychological and spiritual attributes acquired carry over to all spheres of life. Thus, Wa Shin Ryu practitioners are likely to succeed in most areas of life they choose to concentrate on.

Clearly, to feel empowered and be able to do good in other spheres of life a person must also be a "black belt" in the skills and knowledge of life. We teach, therefore, that students should seek to develop themselves to their fullest potential in different areas of human endeavor. We say, "be teachers, be lawyers, be engineers, be physicians, be politicians, be police officers, be leaders in your preferred areas of involvement. Develop your intellect and your technical skills to the fullest; be a black belt in all walks of life, for, that is the way to help others and shape the course of events for yourself and your loved ones. Knowledge is a powerful weapon, and the more skilled you are in a variety of life's weapons the more empowered you are to bring about change, and help those less fortunate."

Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu initially demonstrates in the dojo what empowerment really means. Once students understand the meaning of empowerment in jujutsu they wish to feel empowered in other spheres of human endeavor as well. And, the psychological and spiritual attributes that Wa Shin Ryu develops (discipline, focus, self control, self confidence, perseverance and inner strength, among others), combined with living in a strong and healthy body, can make that happen for them.

With empowerment come certain responsibilities. In some sense, it is like giving a person a loaded gun. It is relatively easy to teach them how to use it. However, it is more difficult to help them develop the good judgment to know when to use it, if at all. There is a need, therefore, to pass on a philosophy, a set of guiding principles that both guide and restrain the martial artist so that he/she may employ the powers of Wa Shin Ryu wisely, sparingly, and with control. In the hands of the unprincipled Wa Shin Ryu becomes a dangerous weapon (as is true of most martial arts) that can cause immeasurable grief and pain.

It is the founder's purpose, in developing this method of combat and self defense, to help students work toward self actualization by empowering them physically, psychologically and spiritually. And, to provide them with a philosophy and a code of honor that will help them apply their empowered status in society wisely.

Empowerment places jujutsu students in a unique position in life because it gives them the choice of deciding and fashioning their own destiny. They develop the mindset and the psychological attributes (internal locus of control, as some psychologists refer to it) that make them proactive in life. This is a rare gift and they have a responsibility to share it with those less fortunate; otherwise, all their training and years of hard work are merely for personal aggrandizement! And, personal aggrandizement as an end in itself is a selfish and empty goal! Finally, the development of increased confidence, and the ability to achieve a greater measure of control over their life enhances self esteem, diminishes the likelihood of falling into "the victim role", helps develop a more positive attitude, and generally helps enhance the quality of life.

THE PRINCIPLES OF WA SHIN RYU JUJUTSU

The term "Principles" refers to the characteristic attributes, laws or assumptions underlying the workings of a system (from principium- beginning, and princeps - initiator). The term may also be used to suggest "source" (something that initiates), or "essence" of a system.

Thus, the term principles refers to those essential components which define how a system is supposed to work in an integrated and internally consistent manner. They are the "underlying rules" that determine/influence effective application.

Our Code of Honor: The 12 Guiding Principles

An honor code spells out for us how we should live our lives as empowered individuals. For, without such a code the awesome power of jujutsu may be put to ill use. This is not what the founder wishes for his system.

The following 12 Guiding Principles reflect the founder's belief that Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu is capable of transforming individuals by empowering them to be better people and to do good in the world. Clearly, this form of "empowerment education" has implications that go well beyond combat and self defense, and the confines of the dojo. The need for a guiding philosophy is paramount, therefore, if students are to be able to put their empowered selves to good use in the world.

The 12 Guiding Principles (Code of Honor or the Budo Way

of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu)

Thus, an empowered martial artist:

1. Has respect for self and opponent

2. Avoids gratuitous violence

3. Has a caring attitude and is IN HARMONY with all living things

4. Is loyal to one's friends

5. Is committed to one's word

6. Helps the weak or those in need

7. Thinks before acting and exercises good judgment

8. Embraces the positive in change but respects the best of the old ways

9. Focuses his/her inner strengths wisely. Perseveres in the things that really matter

10. Is generous in all things, for in helping others he/she gives back to ther art

11. Combats unfairness and injustice to the best of his/her ability

12. Has a questioning mind and thinks for himself/herself.

The 7 System Principles Of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu

Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu has SEVEN System Principles. These are:

1. General Principles of Combat Strategy (Heiho - 8 principles)

2. General Principles of Movement (Taisabaki Jo - 4 principles)

3. General Principles of Technique Execution (Kake Jo - 7 principles)

4. Principles of Power Generation (Ryoku Jo - 10 principles)

5. Principles of Distance Fighting (6 principles)

6. Principles of Close Quarter Fighting (8 principles)

7. Principles of Ground Fighting (7 principles)

1: The 8 General Principles of Combat Strategy (Heiho)

The Principles of Combat Strategy speak to those strategic elements or requisites in a combative situation involving the effective application of cognitive action plans and/or mental maps, for the purpose of attaining superiority over an aggressor. These are:

(i) Ma-ai: Estimation of Distance between Tori and Uke

(ii) Metsuke: Perception, or the ability to "read" the aggressor

(iii) Damashi: Deception pertains to the use of stealth, feinting and dissimulation to deceive, mislead or unbalance an aggressor psychologically so as to confuse and cause their judgment to fail

(iv) Yoshin: Psychological Flexibility. The ability to switch quickly and effectively from one plan of action, or technique, to another, as demanded by the situation. To yield with a purpose or to be flexible psychologically (similar to the concept of "ju" in jujutsu or judo)

(v) Fudoshin: Presence of Mind, or the ability to remain calm and clear

headed under pressure

(vi) Hanekaeri: Rebound, or the ability to bounce back and recover

quickly from setbacks or mistakes during a combative situation

(vii) Kime: Decisiveness, or the ability to think and act decisively

without hesitation

(viii) Zanshin: Vigilance or the ability to demonstrate focus, readiness or

vigilance throughout a combative situation

2: The 4 General Principles of Movement (Taisabaki Jo)

The way a jujutsuka moves and executes technique provides the teacher with important qualitative information about the extent to which the student has been able to train the mind and body to function as one (to demonstrate Unity). It is an external indicator of how well a jujutsuka has been able to integrate and apply the Principles of Movement.

Untrained, or poorly trained martial artists move their body through space in an ungainly fashion; they appear awkward, they cross their feet, they bounce up and down when they move and they fail to lower their center by bending at the knee. When executing technique they often break at the waist and they fail to demonstrate strong "centered action". Thus, the way one moves and executes technique is a key indicator of movement quality.

When moving or executing technique a well trained jujutsuka demonstrates the following:

(i) Centered Action

(Shizentai). Centering is a function of mind-body Unity. Thus it reflects a mental state as well as a way of moving. The physical domain involves lowering one's center of gravity by bending the knees, keeping the back relatively straight and moving from one's hara (using centered action). In ground fighting, centering involves the use of one's center, or hara, to initiate action, to establish control, as for example, in three point contact holds, in escapes, and in the application of force against Uke's arms, legs, chest and other "fighting" body parts. In the psychological domain a centered jujutsuka feels one with his/her body, is highly focused on the task at hand, and mind and body respond as one. The ability to perceive, or sense and act instantaneously is a characteristic quality of the centered martial artist.

(ii) Control: Mental and physical

(iii) Fluency: A qualitative dimension of effective movement that is characterized by smoothness, effortlessness and grace

(iv) Coordination and Effective Timing

3. The 7 General Principles of Technique Execution (Kake Jo)

(i) Debana (Timing; moment of opportunity): An essential component in both

offense and defense. If a technique (or movement) is attempted too early or too

late its effectiveness is diminished. Timing requires good judgment and an

ability to read (Metsuke) an aggressor's body language and movement

patterns/reactions with accuracy and precision in order to discern the "right"

moment of opportunity

(ii) Kuzushi: The physical and psychological destabilizing of the

aggressor

(iii) Tsukuri: Proper positioning for technique execution

(iv) Tekosayo (Leverage): Based on the application of proper mechanical principles in technique execution.

(v) Rikiten: Power point. The actual over-balacing point (the end point of good kuzushi) in the execution of technique. With proper kuzushi and leverage Tori is able to take Uke through to a "teetering point" (Rikiten) which then enables Tori to execute technique with little effort (most efficient use of energy and power)!

(vi) Shuchu Ryoku: Focusing of multiple sources of power

(vii) Kake: Execution phase that follows Shuchu Ryoku; it speaks to the way a technique is actually executed (e.g., crisply and deliberately, without hesitation demonstrating follow-through)

4. The 10 Principles of Power Generation (Ryoku Jo)

In Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu the execution of technique can be greatly enhanced by employing/tapping into several sources of power. Power in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu enables practitioners to generate maximum force with relatively minimal effort. Jujutsuka who have developed such an ability appear stronger, faster and more controlled and are able to execute technique with relative ease. The power they are able to generate is very real and is experienced by Uke (person on the receiving end) as an overwhelming force that cannot be stopped. Tori appears to be invincible as though possessing super-human powers.

To achieve such a high level of effectiveness a lengthy and considerable amount of proper training is required. That is, training that deliberately focuses on the development and harmonization of the sources of power described below.

Sources of Power in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu

Listed in increasing levels of difficulty to develop

(i) Chikara/Riki: Use of physical strength. As one improves in skill, and in the ability to use the other sources of power (see below) this source becomes less important

(ii) Kiai: Application of breath power (rudimentary efforts to harmonize Ki and generate power)

(iii) Tekosayo (Leverage): Based on the use of effective mechanical principles that enhance the execution of technique through superior efficiency of effort

(iv)Hayasa (Speed): Controlled application of speed as a generating source of power

(v) Aiki Jo: Principles of joining (and re-directing) one's movement pattern(s) and energy with the attacker's

(vi) Renraku Jo: Employing the principles of action and reaction; these reflect varying degrees of deception (Damashi)

(vii) Shin: The power of the mind, the will, the heart. Also interpreted as as determination, assertiveness, power of the will or persistence; a no quit mindset. The development of a strong Shin may be used to control and intimidate an assailant by projecting one's strength of will onto the assailant

(viii) Use of Centered Action: Generating force by initiating action from the Center

(ix) Ki: Effective projection of one's life force/ vital energy which, with training, can be focused and directed

(x) Shuchu Ryoku (focused power): The harnessing/focusing of all above sources of power.

With proper training all the above sources of power can be enhanced by employing the ways of the Four-fold Path. Further, see "A Systematic Approach to Tapping Into and Developing Power In Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu" (this paper is available only to my advanced students).

It should be pointed out that different individuals develop their powers at different rates. Further, some sources of power take longer to tap into and develop than others. A good sensei is able to monitor a student's progress and help him/her work toward developing, harmonizing and focusing these sources of power. Mastery and power are said to be achieved when a jujutsuka has developed all his/her sources of power and is able to tap into them with consistency and at will.

Finally, as greater mastery is achieved some sources of power become less important, or even necessary (e.g., the use of physical strength).

5. Principles Of Distance Fighting (6)

(IKKYO - Pathway to the 1st Set of Principles

1. Principles of Deception. (Damashi Jo)

(i) Attack/response combinations (renraku and kogeki waza)
(ii) Misdirection (misdirecting attacker's attention)

2. Principles Governing Combative Initiatives and Responses (Blocking, Evading, Deflecting, Joining, Sen, Go No Sen, Sen No Sen and Sen Sen No Sen).

3. Principles of Perception (Metsuke). Monitoring, tracking and reading an aggressor's intent, movement and
attack/defense patterns and body language

4. Principle of the Shifting Center/use of centered action (balance, posture, movement patterns (taisabaki), etc.)

5. Principle of Ma-ai (speaks to ability to correctly estimate aggressor's distance and shifting position)

6. Principles of Transitioning from distance to close quarter fighting

.

6. Principles Of Close Quarter Fighting (8)

(NIKYO - Pathway to the 2nd Set of Principles)

1. Principles of Deception

(i) Action and Reaction (Renraku waza)

(ii) Misdirection (misdirecting attacker's attention by feigning an attempt to secure some part of his/her body other than the one targeted for attack or by attacking/striking some other body part)

(iii) Joining and Redirecting (Aiki Waza)

2. Principles of Kuzushi (off balancing) and Rikiten (power point/teetering point)

3. Principles of Centered Action (speak to balance, posture, centered movement, etc.)

4. Principle of Additive Effects (using additive effects from multiple arcs when throwing)

5. Principles of Reversal and counter attack (Kaeshi waza)

6. Principles of Leverage

7. Principle of Harnessing/Focusing (Shuchu Ryoku) selected principles of throwing

8. Principles of Transitioning from close quarter fighting to the ground

7. Principles Of Ground Fighting (7)

(SANKYO - Pathway to the 3rd Set of Principles)

1. Principle of Three Point Contact

2. Principle of the Shifting Center

3. Principle of Overloading

4. Principle of Redirecting (a defender's resistance)

5. Principles of Deception

(i) Action and reaction (renraku waza)

(ii) Misdirection (misdirecting attacker's attention by feigning an attempt to secure some part of his/her body other than the one targeted for attack or by attacking/striking some other body part

(iii) Feigning joining and then redirecting (Aiki waza)

(iv) Reversals and counter attacks (Kaeshi waza)

6.Principles Specific to Joint locking, Strangling/Choking and Pressure Points

7.Principles of Transitioning and Continuity from one technique/position to another while on the ground

Advanced Methods of Training

(This segment is under construction)

Knowledge and skill development at the higher levels of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu involve more than simply learning all the techniques, katas and theoretical aspects of the system. In this paper I attempt to clarify the contents, training ways and goals of the system as these apply to higher levels of functioning and performance.

It is a given that as students advance in rank their depth of theoretical knowledge is expected to increase and their skills are expected to improve considerably. They are also expected to show a superior quality of movement and their ability to demonstrate control, generate power, and apply the principles of the system (both Guiding and System principles) must become more evident.

As students come closer to achieving these goals there is a need to ramp up the quality and quantity of their training so that they may be able to enter the next phase in their development. A phase that stresses the following:

1. Training under conditions of increased complexity
2. Training that stresses the application of multiple principles in interactive and shifting fighting contexts
3. Training that places a greater emphasis on innovation and personal discovery
4. Training that develops the ability to draw on a number of relevant strategic actions, sources of power generation and combat strategy by thinking (or mindset) both vertically (linearly) as well as laterally. Vertical thinking is the type of thinking that is developed through kata and continuous sequences. We sometimes refer to these "closed skills". Lateral thinking requires the jujutsuka to branch off and think in terms of multiple combat actions as a response to the same attack. These are the skills and mindset required to function in what some call "open environments" where the shifting demands of an attack/defense situation cannot be predicted or easily controlled. Open kumite/randori type training sessions contribute to the development of lateral thinking but such training must be preceded by training in limited or controlled "open training environments" where the skills to be developed are introduced and integrated gradually in clearly defined and delimited set contexts.

5. Training that develops the knowledge, skills and psychological and strategic flexibility to switch smoothly and effectively from one technique, or pattern of techniques to another, to fit the demands of a shifting and changing combative environment
6. Training that develops further the ability to teach and demonstrate the deeper levels of what can best be described as an interactive matrix of principles, strategy, techniques and mindset that characterize the highest levels of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu.

SUMMARY

In summary, higher level training must take place in environments that stress:

1. Increased levels of complexity
2. Application of multiple principles in interactive and shifting fighting contexts
3. Innovation, creativity and personal discovery
4. Linear and lateral forms of thinking/mindsets
5. Development of Psychological and Strategic Flexibility
6. The ability to teach, demonstrate and explain the deeper levels of the system to advanced students.

Thus the highest levels of the system require:

1. A complete knowledge of the system
2. The ability to apply variations and combinations in multiple fighting contexts
3. The ability to transition smoothly and effectively from one technique to another
4. The ability to generate power using multiple sources
5. The ability to continually innovate and create new patterns of movement in various combinations and permutations and demonstrate these in fighting contexts in the dojo
6. The ability to demonstrate the development of inner strength, determination, focus, responsibility (among others) consistent with the principles of the system
7. The ability to apply multiple principles in shifting and interactive fighting contexts