Irimi Off Balance

Fig. 1 Entry Step.		Fig. 2 Throw Step.

Irimi is the most basic movement in Aikido.

1. In Fig. 1 Nage starts on the attack line and Nage's lead (right) foot steps in using the Basic Close With Partner described in the Entry Chapter. As Nage jumps in Nage's lead (right) arm swings up with the jump striking Uke in the face. The drawing shows a basic entry with the front foot but a basic entry with the rear foot or an advanced entry could be used.
2. Fig. 2 shows the Throw Step. After the entry with the lead (right) foot Nage's back (left) foot steps forward between Nage's lead foot and Uke. As Nage takes this step Nage's left hand normally strikes Uke's face and Nage squats down close to the floor. It helps if Nage's stepping leg lightly brushes Uke's leg. The leg brush is very subtle so that neither Uke nor observers notice it. Do not try to hook Uke's leg or try to trip Uke. For survival situations strikes add security but for the throw it is only necessary to have a good connection to Uke.

Example 1, Basic Irimi.

Movie of Basic Irimi.

Fig. 3 Start		Fig. 4 Knee Pop

1. Fig. 3 shows the start with Uke and Nage spaced so that their extended hands do not quite touch.
2. Fig. 4 shows Nage's right leg doing a Knee Pop for power and speed. Nage's hands are starting to come up to protect Nage and strike Uke in the head.

   Fig. 5 1st Irimi Step		Fig. 6 2nd Strike

3. In Fig. 5 Nage is at the end of the 1st Irimi step. Nage's left foot is behind Uke with enough space for Nage's right leg to step between Uke and Nage's left leg. Nage's left hand is striking the base of Uke's skull and Nage's right hand is at Nage's chest where it can parry or strike as needed.
4. In Fig. 6 Nage is reversing the hip twist and striking Uke's face. Here the strike is to the chin. This is likely to injure Uke leading to potential lawsuits. It is generally better to strike the side of the jaw knocking Uke out without injury.

   Fig. 7 2nd Irimi Step		Fig. 8 Finish

5. Fig. 7 shows the end of the 2nd Irimi Step. Nage's left hand is pulling down on Uke as Nage's right hand drives Nage's head up and back. This is the standard Tenchi Nage move typically used with Irimi Off Balance.
6. Fig. 8 shows the finish with Nage squatting, supporting Uke's head as is typically done in class and in application where Uke has been knocked unconscious and could be injured by the fall. If necessary Nage can generate tremendous power in this throw to drive Uke into the mat causing serious injury or death.