04/08/2026
Very recognizable photo and old hand
Takamatsu Sensei
My hands are a sword,
they take life,
they give life..
Matija 貫龍
Nagase Dojo CRO
Thank you very much, Zoran Sensei, for the wonderful educational text
Shinobiiiiii 👺👺👺
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Gyokko Ryū Kosshijutsu Jō Ryaku no Maki consists of twelve kata that cover a broad range of combative situations, including combinations of punches and kicks, clothing grabs followed by strikes, as well as various attacks from behind such as collar grabs, chokes, and underarm body holds. Through these kata, the practitioner develops an understanding of combative distance, angling, disrupting the opponent's balance, and the precise application of kyūsho.
A characteristic feature of many of these kata is that they begin from a very close combative distance, where the opponent has already established contact or poses an immediate threat. As the technique unfolds, this initial distance gradually increases, creating the space necessary to gain control of the opponent and execute the concluding phase of the technique more safely.
In some lineages and methods of instruction, certain kata begin with the performance of Inzō (印相)—ritual hand seals that should not be understood as mere ceremonial gestures, but as a means of harmonizing breath, intention, and body structure before movement begins. In this way, the first level of Gyokko Ryū already emphasizes that correct technique arises not only from physical movement, but from the unity of mind, body, and intention.
The initial close distance is not accidental. It teaches the practitioner not to seek safety by retreating, but to create safety within danger itself through correct sabaki and changes of angle. Only after control has been established does the distance naturally increase as a consequence of the properly executed technique.
Jō Ryaku no Maki forms the foundation upon which the higher levels of the school are built, introducing the practitioner to the fundamental principles of movement, timing, kyūsho application, and distance management that will gradually develop into increasingly sophisticated combative methods throughout the subsequent levels.
