irími

Irimi is a fundamental movement in many Japanese martial arts, particularly Aikido. It translates to "entering" or "going in" and describes a body action where one moves into their opponent's space, often simultaneously evading or blending with an attack. The core principle of irimi is to enter at an angle that disrupts the attacker's balance and intention, rather than meeting their force directly.

This movement typically involves stepping offline, often with the lead foot stepping across or behind the opponent's attacking line, while simultaneously turning the hips and torso. This shift in posture allows the practitioner to become a moving target and create an advantageous position for a subsequent technique, such as a throw, joint lock, or strike. Irimi is not just a physical movement; it also carries a mental component, requiring anticipation and a decisive commitment to entering the opponent's critical zone. It emphasizes unity of movement, where the hands, feet, and entire body work in coordination. Practicing irimi helps develop evasive skills, timing, and the ability to control distance and leverage in dynamic situations.