Martial Arts Glossary
Glossary of commonly used terms in the Japanese martial arts.
Glossaries
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Ichi | Ichi (一)Ichi is the primary Japanese cardinal number translating to "one" or "first." In traditional Japanese martial arts (Budo)—such as Shotokan Karate, Judo, Kendo, and Aikido—it serves as the starting unit for counting training repetitions, structuring fundamental drills (kihon), regulating timing in formal exercises (kata), and symbolizing ultimate physical and mental unity.
Author - Sensei Miller
Hits - 57 Synonyms -
One, First, Single, Number One, Unity |
| Ippon kumite | Ippon Kumite (一本組手)Ippon Kumite, translated directly as "One-Step Sparring" (or One-Point Sparring), is a fundamental form of predetermined, pre-arranged sparring practiced in traditional Japanese karate. In this drill, the attacker (tori) announces a single target and delivers a single, full-power step-punch or kick, while the defender (uke) blocks the incoming strike, steps into proper counter position, and delivers an immediate, decisive counter-strike with controlled focus (kime).
Author - Sensei Miller
Hits - 54 Synonyms -
One-Step Sparring, One-Point Sparring, Single-Step Kumite |
| Ippon-ken | Ippon-Ken (一本拳)Ippon-ken, translated as the One-Knuckle Fist (or One-Point Fist), is a specialized single-point hand weapon in traditional karate. Formed by protruding the primary knuckle joint of either the index finger (hitoe-ken) or middle finger (nakadaka-ken) while tightly closing the rest of the fist, it focuses the full kinetic force of a strike into a highly concentrated point of impact.
Author - Sensei Miller
Hits - 15 Synonyms -
One-Knuckle Fist, Single-Knuckle Strike, One-Point Fist, Index-Knuckle Fist, Middle-Knuckle Fist |
| Irimi | Irimi (入身)Irimi is a core tactical concept and footwork movement in Japanese martial arts translating directly to "entering body" or "entering movement." It refers to the aggressive yet controlled action of stepping directly into an opponent's attack line, passing through their outer reach to jam their technique, gain positional advantage, and deliver an immediate counter-strike or throw from a blind angle.
Author - Sensei Miller
Hits - 28 Synonyms -
Entering movement, Entering body, Entering technique, Inward step, Body entry |