iikumi

Iikumi is a traditional Japanese martial art that focuses on the use of the body's natural movements and flexibility to defend against attacks. It was developed in the 19th century by the Japanese military to counter the more rigid and structured martial arts of the time. The name "iikumi" comes from the Japanese word "ii," which means "good" or "excellent," and "kumi," which means "method" or "way." The art emphasizes the importance of natural, fluid movements and the use of the body's center of gravity to generate power and control.

Iikumi techniques are typically performed in pairs, with one practitioner acting as the attacker and the other as the defender. The defender uses a variety of strikes, throws, and joint locks to neutralize the attacker's movements. The art also places a strong emphasis on the use of the body's natural flexibility and balance to avoid and counter attacks. Iikumi is often compared to other Japanese martial arts such as Aikido and Judo, as it shares many of the same principles of natural movement and the use of the body's center of gravity.

Iikumi is not as widely practiced or recognized as some other Japanese martial arts, but it remains an important part of Japan's martial arts heritage. The art is still taught and practiced today, both in Japan and around the world, and continues to evolve and adapt to meet the needs of its practitioners.