A somewhat random technical observation

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[WylMorris]

So, this morning I was playing rugby. I used to think that it was almost a diametric opposite of Aikido, but this morning I noticed a link, which I shall now post for your (hopeful) edification.

Here it is: The usual method for tackling works along much the same principals (that I was tought) as Aikido. Lock the joints and break the balance. In rugby we tackle low and attempt to stop them from moving their legs, then drive up with the body to break their balance by pushing forward through them and up off the ground to remove their traction. So, we lock their joints (knee) and break their balance (push)

I hope that made sense to you, and for anyone who cares, we won 43-12.

~wyl

[Jordan Steele]

I used to play rugby as well and I observed the same parallels. I am not very big so hitting the knees was my only option. A few times I managed to insert my hips under his abdomen and get the guy airborne. It only worked with good timing and hoped he didn't dodge me, then I just looked dumb, but still fun.