Itsutsu no Kata

Introduction

The Itsutsu No Kata means “Forms of Five”, representing the five symbolic movements or ethics of the art. According to Noboru Saito, " Tenjin Shinyo Ryu, the kata was taught as “Okuden”, the last skill to be taught individually by the master of the school”. Within the schools archives the names of the techniques are as follows:

1. Oshi gaeshi - Continuous Pushing (concentration of power / energy)
2. Eige - Draw Drop (No resistance)
3. Tomo wakare - Separation (Centrifugal and centripetal force)
4. Roin - Pulling Tide (Law of the pendula)
5. Settsuka no wakare - Instant Separation (Law of inertia)

Jigoro Kano the founder of Kodokan Judo commenced studies at the Imperial University in Tokyo in 1877. As a student Kano found Hachinosuke Fukuda, the Master of the Tenjin Shinyo Ryu Jujitsu, which was a combination of the Yoshin and Shin no Shindo styles of Jujitsu.
The techniques of this Jujitsu school included Atemi-waza, Shime-waza, and Hodaku, which were superior to any other Jujitsu schools of the time. Master Fukuda passed away in 1879 at the age of 52. Kano continued his training with Master Masamoto Iso the head teacher of the main branch of the same Tenjin Shinyo Ryu.

In 1887, Master Kano revised the Itsutsu no Kata from the Tenjin Shinyo Ryu and transformed it but died before being able to complete his new version.

The current version taught within Kodokan Judo is performed slightly different from the Tenjin Shinyo Ryu. According to the book "Judo" by Jigoro Kano (page 66) published in 1961: "It was originally Kano Shihan's intention to include a large number of techniques in this kata but it was never completed and it comprises only five movements, hence its designation (Itsutsu - means five). Due to the kata not being finalised, the techniques were only recorded as numbers and sometimes called the "unfinished kata". The first two movements have some connection with the kata of the Kito School of Jujutsu but the last three are original.

It is an artistic and meaningful kata calling for natural movements (the movement of water, the movement of heavenly bodies, etc.) to be skilfully expressed by the human body." Master Kano was inspired by the forms found in nature where he strived to come up with a way of expressing the forces of nature through Judo.

Jigoro Kano believed that there are five overriding principles common to Judo and all martial arts. He distilled all the teachings of Judo into the minimum number of principles needed to explain it. Since these principles are intended to be universal, they are equated with natural movements found in the universe, such as a wave in the ocean or a whirlpool. This kata applies the theoretical basis of attack and defence to natural phenomena.

The Itsutsu No Kata is an "inner kata" which dramatizes a man on his way towards the truth, who meets the elements of nature and harmonizes with them.

This kata presents the five principles of the Judo: energy, resistance, forces, alternation and vacuum.

1. Earth (Strength of justice) - It is the principle of concentration of energy and of the action; the direct force of Tori dominates Uke by bringing it to imbalance.
A force can control some larger easily by carrying out a continuous and logical attack.
Examples of such techniques:
- Uchi mata
- Seoi nage
- Harai goshi
On the first technique, Tori and Uke meet, Tori pushes Uke so much so that this one cannot remain upright on its feet.
Demonstrates the principle that rationalized, continuous attack will bring defeat, even against a strong power. This technique represents the impeccable strength of justice. A small power applied continuously, in a rational manner, can control a huge power.

2. Fire (Winning through yielding) - It is the principle of power of reaction and minimal direct resistance dodge and maximum use of the force of Uke.
Demonstrates the principle of using the energy of the opponent's attack to defeat them, or victory through yielding.
Control of a force by the use of this force, examples of such techniques:
- Utsuri goshi
- O Soto gaeshi
The second technique resembles Uki Otoshi. Tori draw uke in the direction from the movement of Uke, which is forwards.

3. Wind (Whirlpool principle) - It is the principle of the centrifugal forces and centripetal.
Demonstrates the principle of the whirlpool, wherein the inner circle controls the outer circle. Two objects revolving in giant circles, inevitably they close in on each other, and then part without damage.
The principle is that which the center of a swirl can absorb the circumference. If one is drawn and rings some one by more extremely than oneself, it is possible to project it by taking the control of the center of the circle. Les cyclic movements illustrate the wind.
Examples of such techniques:
- Hiza guruma
- Ashi guruma
- Te Waza
On the third technique, Tori and Uke move together in circle. Tori and Uke meet and Tori launches a technique which resembles Tomoe nage.

4. Water (Power of the tide) - It is the principle of alternation such that of flow and backward flow of the tides.
Demonstrates the power of the ocean's tide. The tide will draw everything on the shore into the ocean, no matter how large, as a giant wave sweeping the beach clean of all debris and impurity.
The rhythmic and alternative movements are significant in this series. It is a question of using opportunities. It is necessary to accelerate the demonstration of the techniques, which is done by a succession of attacks.
Examples of such techniques:
- Ko uchi gari
- Tai otoshi
- Uchi mata
The fourth technique represents the movement of the tide. The final one can point out a very conventional form of Tani otoshi.

5. Void (Empty Space) - It is the principle of the vacuum or inertia Demonstrates the principle of yielding: when unlimited energies collide with each other, one yields to avoid destroying both. This technique shows that a clash between two strong forces can only result in mutual doom, but if you step aside and give way there will be peace and coexistence.
Adaptations where all opportunities can be exploited by an adequate technique, examples of such techniques:
- All Sutemi waza
- Uchi mata gaeshi
In the last technique, tori and uke are moving towards each other, and tori does a technique that looks like Yoko Wakare.


Technique 1 – (3 TRJJ)




Technique 2 – (1 TRJJ)



Technique 3 – (4 TRJJ)




Technique 4 – (5 TRJJ)




Technique 5 – (2 TRJJ)

Kodokan Judo Version – Itsutsu No Kata

As with all Kata, it starts with a Traditional Bow. This one starts with a Tachi Rei (Standing Bow, and not a Za Rei or Kneeling Bow). This Rei is done at a distance of approx 12 feet (4 meters) between Tori and Uke.
First of all they face each other, pause and then turn to the Joseki, which is the traditional place of honour and perform a Tachi Rei.
Immediately after Tori and Uke have done their Tachi Rei to the Joseki, they turn to each other and do another Tachi Rei to each other. The Kata ends with the same formal and ritualistic Tachi Rei.

1. The Principle of Concentration of Energy - Tao Kidashi
The 1st technique of this Kata represents the Principle of Concentration of Energy and pf Direct Action.
Tori advanced towards Uke, breathing in as he raises his hand to chest height (summoning up the Ki) in readiness of the Tsuki or thrust (the target being Uke’s chest area).
Tori completes the "Tsuki" Thrusting / Pushing action demonstrating the Power of the Principle of Concentration of Energy and of Direct Action (on a Body). Uke falls to the ground and for a moment lies still.

2. The Principle of Reaction and of Non-Resistance - Hiki Otoshi
Uke sits up from the previous technique, and as he moves upward and forwards, towards Tori, extends his right arm, fingers extended, and makes a "Tsuki" thrusting "Attack" to Tori's face. Tori deflects the blow as a reaction demonstrating the Principle of "REACTION and NON-RESISTANCE.
Tori executes the throw by moving backwards, and down, utilising Uke's forward advancing movement and "off-Balance" to finish off the throwing action. Tori maintains the grip and control of Uke, right to the finish of the "Waza" when Uke hits the ground. Uke, after a few seconds, sits up and starts to move into the next series of moves (to illustrate the next principle of this Kata.
Uke sits up from the previous technique, and as he moves upward and forwards, towards Tori, extends his right arm, fingers extended, and makes a "Tsuki" thrusting "Attack" to Tori's face. Tori deflects the blow as a reaction demonstrating the Principle of "REACTION and NON-RESISTANCE.
Tori executes the throw by moving backwards, and down, utilising Uke's forward advancing movement and "off-Balance" to finish off the throwing action. Tori maintains the grip and control of Uke, right to the finish of the "Waza" when Uke hits the ground. Uke, after a few seconds, sits up and starts to move into the next series of moves (to illustrate the next principle of this Kata.

3. Cyclic Principle of the Circle, or of the Whirlwind – En No wakare Uke sits up from the previous technique, and as he moves to a standing position, extends his arms out to the sides of his body and starts the action of a "Circle" moving in the opposite direction to Tori, but with the intention of Crashing into, or confronting Tori as the two "bodies" move around in a "Whirlwind" stylised movement.

4. Principle of Alternation of the Pendulum – Do To
Uke starts in a standing position, with his back to Tori (facing Joseki). Tori approaches from a stooping posture, gradually raising his body and arms (as in an Ocean Wave, rolling towards the seashore.

5. Principle of the Void, or of Inertia – Ten Chi No wakare
Uke sits up from the previous technique, and as he moves to a standing position, extends his arms out to the sides of his body and starts the action of a "Circle" moving in the opposite direction to Tori, but with the intention of Crashing into, or confronting Tori as the two "bodies" move around in a "Whirlwind" stylised movement.
Uke lands Flat on his back and stays down for a few seconds, before slowly getting up and moving to the position to finish the Kata off with a Tachi Rei to Tori, they both then turn (Tori and Uke together) and Tachi Rei to Joseki. This is the end of the ITSUTSU-No-Kata.

Tohkon Ryu Jujitsu – Itsutsu No Kata

Itsutsu-no-kata is a set of techniques that is predominantly aimed at displaying the Tai sabaki (body movements) of Jujitsu. Undertaking many other principles that form the basis of Jujitsu. It is a tool to test Tori (Attacker) and Uke’s (Receiver) cohesion, transition of movement, control and poise and correct execution of technique.

The Kata Formalities
Uke and Tori approach opposite ends of the tatami (Mat), bow at the edge facing each other. They walk to the middle of the mat, to a distance of approximately 3ft apart, turn to the examiner/s that should be on the Tori’s right side and bow. Then turn and bow to each other.
The Tori then indicates to the Uke to deliver the first attack, remembering at all times that Tori is to maintain the same stance throughout the Kata. The Uke positions themselves in a right-handed stance in the first attack of each set and changes to a left stance at the second part of each set. The only set of movements in the kata that Uke does not change stance and attack is the fifth; at this stage Uke and Tori are about 4ft apart.
When each technique has been executed, both Uke and Tori raise from the tatami in time with each other, circling in an anti-clockwise direction. When they are circling, it is important that both are keeping the same distance at which they started, keeping in a pretence weak position, focusing on each other.
After the final set Tori and Uke face each other, turn backwards to the other to adjust their gi. Tori will signal Uke with a tap to the leg to indicate when it is time to turn, to face each other. Upon the completion of the Kata they close it by again bowing to each other, and then to the examiner/s. Finally they turn in the same direction as they entered, and walk to the edge of the mat where they turn facing each other to bow.

The Kata Sequence
1. Nagashi - Avoiding:
Part A Right low punch - Tori draws Uke's arm, pivots and rotates making Uke roll. The end position for Tori is on the left knee (the technique is Uki otoshi on the outside).
Part B Left low punch - Tori simultaneously grabs Uke on the back of the head/ neck area with the left hand, and with the right hand drawing Uke off balance in a circular movement. Whilst pivoting, Tori kneels onto their left knee (the technique is Uki otoshi).

2. Okuri - Sliding:
Part A Right high punch - Tori slides and blocks to the outside of Uke, and then executes Waki otoshi. Followed by Tori rolling onto both knees to apply ude gatame.

Part B Left high punch - Tori slides and blocks the Uke's punch on the inside. Tori then kneels onto their left knee, delivering a strike to the Uke’s inner leg (femoral artery) with the left hand, simultaneously taking hold of the ankle with the right hand. Tori then applies pressure to Uke's knee, at the same time pulling Uke's ankle off the ground towards your our body. Tori follows the leg takedown with a blow to Uke's groin delivered with the left hand, deflecting Uke's left leg away again using the left hand.

3. Irimi - Entering:
Part A Right low punch - Tori enters in, using a pushing block to draw out Uke's arm, and then executes Ko soto gari.

Part B Left low punch - Tori enters in and applies a pushing block to Uke's arm, and then executes Ko uchi gari.

4. Irimi Senkai - Entering Rotation:
Part A Option A - Right low punch - Tori applies a straight-arm lock, facing the same direction as Uke. Tori steps forward levering the arm to off balance Uke placing them onto their toes, causing Uke to roll.
Option B – Right overhead strike – as above

Part B Option A - Left low punch - Tori will counter this with O goshi (people of shorter stature)
Option B – Left over head strike – Tori counter this with Koshi guruma (people of taller stature).

5. O Irimi Senkai - Major Entering Rotation:
Part A Right front kick - Tori deflects the kick and executes major entering rotation and Morote kata otoshi.

Part B Right front kick - Tori deflects the kick and executes major entering rotation. Uke will try to counter Tori by bending forward before Tori can complete the takedown. Tori will now counter Uke’s action by executing either:
Option A – Yoko guruma (right hand gripping the Uke’s lapel and left hand around to the belt of Uke to execute a left-handed Yoko guruma). This option is stronger bio mechanically to execute.
Option B - Ura nage (keeping hold of Uke's lapel with the left hand, move around to the front of Uke, placing your right hand on Uke's belt to execute Ura nage).

Conflict Resolution

Within the table above is the order of technique found within Tohkon Ryu , Tenjin Shinyo Ryu and the Kodokan Judo. Tenjin Shinyo Ryu is believed to be the founding school of this kata, even though the principles found within are sourced in many other older schools. The principles found within the kata are used in modern use of force charts or similar strategies to engage in warfare or confrontation management. I believe that the modern sequence for the principles are as follows:
1. Presenting options - Void,
2. Negotiation - Water,
3. Mutual agreement - Wind,
4. Reaction and non-resistance - Fire, and
5. Forcing a solution (to stop a situation before it is out of hand) - Earth.

Those of you in tohkon Ryu Jujitsu system the sequence is:
1. Nagashi - Fire - Winding through yielding
2. Okuri - Void - Presenting options
3. Irimi - Earth - Forcing the solution
4. Irimi senkai - Wind - Mutual agreement
5. O irimi senkai - Water - Negotiation

The order of the principles within the Tenjin Shinyo Ryu would need to be in reverse order to make them a sound system in modern conflict management.

References:

- Danzan Ryu Jujitsu – Official Internet Website - Paper on Itsutsu No Kata, Neil Ohlenkamp, 2005
- Tohkon Ryu Jujitsu – Kyu grade Syllabus Senior, Itsutsu No Kata (p 38-39), M. Haseman and S. Koch, 2004
- Tsutsumi Hozan Ryu Jujitsu - Itsutsu No Kata, Shihan Jan de Jong.
- Kodokan Judo with Master Technician Kyuzo Mifune, Itsutsu No Kata, Rising Sun Video Productions Inc., 2002
- Judo Information Website, Paper on Itsutsu No Kata, Tenjin Shinyo Ryu, Noboru Saito, 2004

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