Kamae (構え) — Stance

Every technique in aikido begins from a stance in hanmi (半身), with the body turned at an angle. Learn both the left and the right correctly.

For migi hanmi (右半身, right stance), from an upright position step the right foot half a step forward and point the toes of the left foot outward. Hold the right hand slightly forward. Seen from the side, the whole body forms a triangle. Hidari hanmi (左半身, left stance) is the reverse.

• Let go of unnecessary tension and keep a soft posture.
• Keep your weight midway between both feet. Bend the knees slightly so you can respond at once to any movement.

Foot Position Matters

In migi hanmi, place the right foot half a step forward with its toes pointing straight at the center of your partner’s body. Place the left foot on the line extending back from the right heel, with its toes opened outward. Simply setting the direction of both feet correctly brings the upper body naturally into hanmi.

Always Keep the Body in Hanmi

In aikido you always keep the hanmi stance. Hanmi is a posture that does not lose its balance whichever direction a movement comes from. It also exposes less of your body to your partner than facing them square on. Point your navel at the center of your partner’s body.

Metsuke (目付) — Look at the Whole Partner

Where you look in your stance is very important, because you can only apply the right technique if you notice the moment your partner begins to move. Do not stare at a narrow spot such as the hands or feet; center your gaze on your partner’s eyes and widen your view to take in the whole body.