Advanced Jujutsu

    10-19-02, v1.14

    Head Instructor:

    Prof. Andrew Yiannakis, 7th Dan (Jujutsu), 6th Dan (Judo)

    Email: ayiann@unm.edu

    Introduction and Purpose Of The Course

    Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu is a holistic, comprehensive martial art that emphasizes an integrated approach to the development of inner power and combative skills. It focuses on the development of the total person and stresses the integration of mind and body. The ultimate goal of the system is to tap into and develop inner sources of power and achieve self actualization in the physical, psychological and spiritual domains (development of Ki). Thus empowered and enlightened a martial artist may then utilize his/her powers to help others, to do good in the world and to lead a more productive life.

    In Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu Self Actualization (a major source of empowerment) is achieved through a process we call the Four-fold Path. This involves:

    a. Meditation and introspection

    b. Rigorous, diligent and frequent training in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu

    c. Practice and application of the principles of the system

    d. A commitment to, and application of the philosophy of the system

    (the Code of Honor, in particular) both in the dojo and in everyday life.

    Our Code of Honor

    Our Code of Honor consists of twelve Guiding Principles. These are:

    An empowered martial artist......

    1. Has respect for self and for 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 strength wisely. Perseveres in the things that really matter

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

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

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

    Course Contents

    1. A review of the Nikkyo No Kata (formerly Mudansha No Kata)
    2. Basic (7) distance fighting combinations (renraku no waza)
    3. Nage Waza (throws) and Combinations

    1. ogoshi to ko-ouchi gari
    2. ippon seoinage to ouchi gari
    3. deashi barai to oguruma
    4. osotogari to haraigoshi

    1. Buki No Kata (defenses against weapons)

    1. Sword/club
    2. Knife
    3. Pistol

    1. Introduction to Jigoku No Kata (kata from hell)
    2. First two sets (8 techniques applied to wrist and fingers)

    3. Core Techniques
    4. A brief review of the first twelve techniques

    5. Escapes from Kesa Gatame and Kami Shiho Gatame

    8. Training Ways

    In our training we shall also incorporate several sequences to include the Gregorian and the Uki Goshi No Waza (with follow-through to the ground). We shall also apply the various techniques we study in the context of our strategic responses which are:

    (i) Escapes (Fusegi Waza),

    (ii) Blocks (Uke Waza),

    (iii) Deflections (Sorasu Waza),

    (iv) Evasions (Furimi Waza),

    (v) Joining (Aiki Waza),

    (vi) Interceptions (Bogai Waza), and,

    (vii) Deceptions with Counters (Damashi with Kaeshi Waza)

    The instructor will also discuss and demonstrate the application of the system’s principles in a variety of combative contexts (distance, close quarter and ground fighting)

    The System’s Principles are:

    (i) Heiho, the Principles of Combat Strategy - (8 Principles),

    (ii) Shintai Jo, the Principles of Movement - (Centering, Timing, Control, Coordination and Fluency)

    (iii) Kake Jo, the Principles of Execution - (Kuzushi, Tsukuri, Shuchu Ryoku, and Kake), and,

    (iv) Ryoku Jo, the Principles of Power - (Chikara, Ki, Shin and Kokyu)

    Readings (on our website)

    1. Yiannakis: System, Philosophy and Principles
    2. Yiannakis: Paper on meditation
    3. Yiannakis: Shuchu Ryoku
    4. Helm/Abel: History of jujutsu
    5. Armstrong: The Koryu Bujutsu Experience
    6. Hall: Marishiten: Buddhist Influences on Combative Behavior

      Testing, Promotion and Grading

      Testing for promotion will be based on the criteria as laid out in the document entitled "Requirements for Promotion and Fees" (see website). However, a key contributor to improvement and progress in jujutsu is frequent practice. Therefore, students going up for promotion will be expected to to adhere to the following training schedule:

      Students Preparing To Test For:

      • Brown belt ranks: At least three workouts a week for the semester in which they will be testing
      • For black belt ranks: At least four workouts a week for the semester in which they will be testing

        Class grades will be based on skills taught in the class. Your final class grade will be based on a continuous assessment grade and a final test grade. The verbal part is the same as the one given for promotion and is based on rank.

        Attendance

        You are allowed four free absences.

        Additional absences come off your final grade. Students who have more than four absences may not test for promotion.

        For more information please visit our website at http://unm.wsrjj.org/unmjj.html