Tai Sabaki

Tai Sabaki – Martial Arts Body Movement

Tai Sabaki (literal translation body management) is a key component of all Japanese martial arts. This technique should not to be confused with Taijutsu (which is the unarmed combat method associated with Ninjutsu which does incorporate many elements of Tai Sabaki).

Tai Sabaki is a way of maneuvering the body in order to both avoid a strike whilst at the same time positioning oneself into a position to execute a counter/pre-emptive strike. Tai Sabaki (often translated as evasion) places great emphasis on ‘Ashi Sabaki’ (footwork) and ‘Te Sabaki’ (handwork).

Tai Sabaki is especially important in the traditional Japanese weapon-based martial arts such as Kenjutsu and Kobudo weapon techniques such as Nunchakujutsu. In addition, this technique is part of other Japanese martial arts such as Aikido and Karate.

Tai Sabaki in Aikido

Tai Sabaki in Karate

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This site is for informational purposes only. All martial arts techniques and exercises should be supervised by a trained martial arts instructor in order to prevent injuries and to ensure the proper technique is utilized. The information on these pages and videos is meant only to reinforce and supplement the instruction given at your martial arts classes. To properly understand these techniques, you need to learn them from a martial arts instructor who can provide you with an in-depth explanation of the technique, help correct your mistakes, answer your questions and detail how the technique should be utilized. In addition, all martial arts techniques and training should be used safely and responsibly.