Kuzushi

Kuzushi (崩し:くずし) is a Japanese term for unbalancing an opponent in the martial arts.

The noun comes from the intransitive verb, kuzusu, meaning to level, pull down, or demolish. As such, it is refers to not just an unbalancing, but the process of getting an opponent into a position where his stability, and hence ability to regain uncompromised balance, is destroyed.

In judo, it is considered an essential principle and the first of three stages to a successful throwing technique: kuzushi, tsukuri (fitting or entering) and kake (execution).

Kuzushi is important to many styles of Japanese martial arts, especially those derived from, or influenced by, Ju Jutsu training methods. Judo, Ninjutsu, Aikido and Wadō-ryū karate are examples of arts that can be found in the latter category.

The methods of effecting kuzushi depend on maai (combative distance) and other circumstances. It can be achieved using tai sabaki (body positioning and weak lines), taking advantage of the opponents actions (push when pulled, pull when pushed), atemi (strikes), or a combination of all three.

There are three primary ways of applying kuzushi in judo:

• direct action (e.g. pulling or pushing while entering for a throw);
• inducing opponent's action (e.g. a feint or combination attack);
• direct action by opponent (e.g. a counter throw).

Additional reading

• Kano, Jigoro (1994) Kodokan Judo is the standard reference on judo. ISBN 4-7700-1799-5.
• Ohlenkamp, Neil (2006) Judo Unleashed another basic reference on judo. ISBN 0-0714-7534-6.

External links

• kuzushi
• kuzushi: beginning and advanced concepts
• Kumite Gata and the Essence of Wado-ryu. Part III: The Principle of Kuzushi