Weekly Update from Wadō-Ryū Benkyō

Today’s session centred around a theme that sits quietly beneath everything we do: posture.

Posture is not simply how we stand at the beginning or end of a technique. It is the vehicle that carries the technique, allows timing to function, and controls distance. Correct posture distributes weight properly — and correct weight distribution gives us balance, mobility, and impact. When posture is right, the body moves freely; when it is wrong, it applies its own brakes.

A clear example of this came through our work on Kette techniques. Understanding that Kette Junzuki is Maegeri plus Junzuki — not half of each — changes everything. Returning to Ōtsuka II’s philosophy of 1 + 1 + 1 = 1, each component remains a complete entity in its own right, yet when combined correctly they become a single unified action.

Relaxation in movement was another key focus. Removing unnecessary tension prevents mudana from creeping into our training. Excess tension restricts fluidity and disrupts natural movement. By allowing the body to move without interference, technique becomes smoother, lighter, and more efficient.

Throughout the class we covered a broad range of material — Kihon, Nihon Kumite, Kumite Kata, and Kihon Kumite — continually applying the principles of fluidity, timing, distance, and balance. These are fine details, but they always make the difference.

We also explored how the body can work in unison while parts of it operate independently. The best place to see this clearly is Naihanchi Kata, where the lower body often remains stable while the upper body rotates and creates action. Once understood, this principle can be transferred into other areas, such as Kumite Kata Numbers 3 and 9, where minimal lower-body movement allows upper-body rotation to generate uke and prepare the next technique.

Keeping in line with today’s video release, we also revisited Notsukomi techniques, studying how the body operates as a connected chain — from the foot, through the hips, into the shoulders and arms. When that chain is aligned and free of unnecessary tension, power travels cleanly and naturally.

A session built on detail and refinement — subtle work that strengthens the foundations and sharpens understanding. Exactly what Saturday Benkyō is about.