Re: Randori...we don't do enough of it
Peter has mentioned differences in methods of randori geiko. Here's a brief description of how we randori in Jiyushinkai training.
Jiyushin randori consists of one person attacking (setting up a real conflict with strong intent), and if the answering technique is not successful, then countering techniques (brought about through intuitive, creative decision making processes) are made by each person until a technique happens that can not be countered. This practice is initially done in slow motion with both partners keeping the original rhythm and pace. Even at slow speed, it's assumed that we're going as fast as possible so that "speeding up" to get out of trouble is not a viable way of solving the problem at hand. It is essential in this practice that excessive force and speed not be the deciding factors in the success of the techniques. As the budoka become more skilled, the speed level can go as fast as possible.
Randori must lead us past the seiteigata learning tools in kihon no kata into instantaneous intuitive, creative decision making of an infinite variety of techniques. Instead of reactive decision making, we learn proactive or creative decision making skills. Each person is trying 100% to attack and not get caught themselves while not really caring who catches the successful technique because both participants are learning and both are "winners" at all times. The idea is to develop a symbiotic competitive spirit of training that brings us to the true essence of the concept of takemusu aiki (the never ending flow of creative aikido that is appropriate for that instant).
Students usually begin to randori at about sankyu level and it becomes around fifty percent of our practice.
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