Moving Past Point of Origin by Michael Aloia ASA Dojo Cho What does that mean? First, let’s discuss what “moving from point of origin” means. This means that wherever you are that’s the point at which you move. It’s a starting point or position. Simple concept. Point of origin is constantly changing, however. Each time we move a new point of origin is created and with that point of origin a new set of choices now exists as to where we are going to move to and from. As an example of moving from point of origin, we can consider the movement and action of a basic block followed by a basic counter-punch. Rather than blocking an oncoming attack, such as a punch (something that we would never do in Aikido ) then proceed to re-chamber that same block to turn it into a counter-strike, the block would just convert itself to the strike from its point of origin – the place and physical contact point it met the initial strike, directly into the counter-strike. This way no movement is lost or added. Moving from point of origin adds to the economy of motion. Some may argue that not enough power will be generated with that counter-strike in the above example. However, we are discussing the elements and principles of movement in and of itself and not concerning ourselves at the moment with generating power. That comes later once the basics of movement are grasped. So, “point of origin” is moving from where we are to somewhere else. Then what is “moving past point of origin”? Simply stated: it is a series of moves strung together creating a “flow” of energy movement. It is through this flow of energy that we come to build power. Again, power is not the focus of this discussion. For the moment, it’s purely movement. Moving past point of origin places us out of reach and not where our attacker thinks we are, or were in this case, but places us exactly where we should and or want to be, avoiding the strike and creating a stronger position and more effective execution of technique. Moving past point of origin ensures we have cleared the threat rather than just simply avoiding it. Clearing means either there is no threat or we have secured things enough making it harder for another threat. Avoiding dangles on the verge of luck and it also leaves for a chance for the threat to quickly return. When we find that we begin to move past point of origin we begin to discover that this is the realm where the final moments of the technique, kake, the execution, come into play. Here lies the apex of what it is we are working to achieve. Moving past point of origin connects and aligns the accumulation of movement, energy, power, timing, space, positioning and skill. Skill is defined by our training, which, of course, plays a major role in our ability to do and understand technique. “Moving from point of origin” is a one and done deal. But it is an excellent start and gets us on the right track. “Moving past point of origin” is the stage we want to get to in order to find ourselves “in the flow” and “one with the moment” - connecting all the dots into a single continuous stream of energy.
Posted on: Mon, 03 Nov 2014 18:58:27 +0000
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