Tai-Sabaki, roughly translated, means body shifting or body management. Whereas Ashi-Sabaki deals with foot work and foot placement, Tai-Sabaki is concerned with body movement and body positioning with respect to your opponent. These moves must be executed quickly and with strength. There should be no pause between the defence and the attack otherwise you risk losing the advantage gained. There are four exercises that make up Tai-Sabaki.
Tai Sabaki Ichi
This exercise involves stepping to the side of the attack and executing three punches similar to Sanbon-Zuki.
In each case, the attack and counter consists of three punches:
- Chudan Nagashi-Uki
- Jodan Gyaku-Zuki
- Chudan Choku-Zuki (Kiai on the last move)
Note: the timing of these punches is similar to that of Sanbon-Zuki
Tai-Sabaki-Ichi Slow
Tai-Sabaki-Ichi Fast
Tai Sabaki Ni
This exercise involves stepping to the side of the attack and executing a Gedan Yoko-Geri-Kekomi.
The direction of moves is the same as that of Tai Sabaki-Ichi
Tai-Sabaki-Ni Slow
Tai-Sabaki-Ni Fast
Tai Sabaki San
This exercise involves stepping to the side of the attack and executing a Chudan Mae-Geri-Kebanashi followed by Sanbon-Zuki.
The pattern of moves is the same as that of Tai Sabaki-Ichi
Tai-Sabaki-San Slow
Tai-Sabaki-San Fast
Tai Sabaki Yon
This exercise involves stepping to the side of the attack and executing a Yoko-Empi-Uchi.
The pattern of moves is the same as that of Tai Sabaki-Ni
Tai-Sabaki-Yon Slow
Tai-Sabaki-Yon Fast
References
http://bama.ua.edu/~usbudo/taisabk1.htm
Chidokan Karate-Do Training Manual (1982) – Kyoshi Sensei John Clutterbuck
Tai-Sabaki The forgotten exercise of body shifting (Part 2) – Soshi Sensei Ed Hudson
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