Variations from adaptability

 I was asked “what is the Japanese terminology for the oi-zuki with intentionally high shoulder?”

Tanaka Masahiko Sensei from the book 'Hasha'.

 That’s a good question as it points to a larger picture of karate; that is, 基本技 (kihon-waza) and 自由技 (jiyu-waza). To begin with, OI-ZUKI is OI-ZUKI, unless you use the alternative term of 'Jun-zuki', which is equally acceptable.

 

It is important to understand that the classical form ‘kihon-waza’ are the base of the freestyle ‘jiyu-waza’; however, by themselves will not make one’s karate ‘reliably effective’ in reality, that is, outside the dojo—for self- defense.

 

One must work on the classical techniques as a basis, “a foundation”, then work them ‘as you will use them’ in an actual altercation—the ADAPTABLE ‘freestyle waza’. Besides all the physical training and technical attributes, the ‘classical kihon’, also provide a baseline for variations/adaptability. ‘Variation’ via ‘instantaneous adaptability’ in budo/bujutsu is a key point, as one’s techniques—in reality—must automatically change according to the circumstances.

 

Returning to the question about oi-zuki above, in the classical ‘baseline’ kihon (like other linear ‘tsuki’) the shoulder is relaxed and down, in addition to many other points that ‘make the classical form correct’. However, in application, from this ‘baseline’ version, adaptations are made. Certainly, the tsuki arms shoulder can be raised to protect the head from being hit and/or change the angle/trajectory of the blow.

 

This is no different than raising up on the ball of the foot in freestyle, as opposed to being tightly restricted in the classical version. It’s comparable to a 100-meter sprinter training with some form of resistance. Of course there are numerous other variations, but think this example is enough to clarify what I’m coveying here.

 

The freestyle version of all the waza in karate is for one thing: ‘to make it work’ and to do so optimally in that particular moment. If one is limited to classical form, their karate may work but there will be a huge question of its reliability. Effective adaptability, which is autonomous and optimal in any given moment, is an imperative aspect of karate as a form of 武術 (Bujutsu).

 

To conclude, throwing a “tsuki”, oi-zuki or otherwise with high shoulder, is an important adaptation. Such methods which ‘break the classical rules’ can be used for superior defense and unpredictable attacks. Such technical variations must be practiced by senior grades to develop adaptability and, in doing so, better utilizing the classical kihon, kata and yakusoku-kumite.

 

押忍

アンドレ  バーテル

The 'classical kihon' oi-zuki/jun-zuki.

© André Bertel. Oita City, Japan (2024).