Kuzushi is a frequently used term in Japanese martial arts such as judo, aikido and jujutsu. Like many Japanese phrases, its meaning can often be misrepresented or misunderstood.
Essentially, kuzushi refers to “taking an opponent’s balance” though it is sometimes referred to as “destruction” of another’s balance. I prefer to quote an old judo teacher of mine who said that “Kuzushi is the moment we find our opponent’s balance and act on it.”
Finding balance. Anatomically speaking, the goal is to disrupt another person’s center of gravity thereby placing him or her in a (very) momentary loss of control and then having the skill, experience and luck to capitalize on that moment. It happens quickly.
In jujutsu were were taught to create opportunities to take kuzushi, usually with a preemptive strike or kick, then seizing that brief moment to throw, control or choke the opponent. Aikido students are taught to find kuzushi when an opponent attempts to grab or strike by redirecting the aggressive energy (and intention) through body movement and a calm mind. Despite what some people might think, it does work but I admit it takes years to develop that kind of skill and it’s not appropriate for all situations.
In my opinion, judo players have cornered the market on finding kuzushi. I say this because both opponents are in constant contact with one another and a judoka has to feel the exact moment a person’s center of gravity is out wack and capitalize on it. It’s really hard because you have to be totally aware of your own body position while attempting to feel when your opponent’s balance is vulnerable. It takes a unique level of commitment and dexterity to find kuzushi when another person is resisting you and trying to find the same thing.
Finding balance. Of course, there is a life lesson here. We often place our mental, physical and spiritual kuzushi at risk because we allow our attention to be distracted from our goals and commitments. Even momentary lapses in judgement can result in loss of balance and life will toss you on your ass.
Need examples? I got plenty. Had one too many at the bar and decided to drive home anyway? Kuzushi. Bought way too much car or house and now have no time to spend with your family or or have put food on a credit card? Kuzushi. Spend lots of hours binge watching shows when you could be working on your education, career or fitness? Kuzushi. Decided to break your diet momentum and have the food you know you shouldn’t because “its been a tough day?” Kuzushi. Neglected to let your loved ones know how important they are to your life? Kuzushi.
Finding balance. As in martial arts, easy to understand but very difficult to apply.
You can feel when you find kuzushi on the mat. There is definitely a sense of satisfaction even if you can’t follow through with a technique because you know you had the chance and can probably get it again at some point.
And how do we find kuzushi in life? Simple. Do what you know you’re supposed to do and avoid the things you know you should avoid. Treat other people the way you want to be treated. Often hard to apply, but simple concept.
Kuzushi. Some times you have to go out of your way to create it. Other times you have to go with the flow and direct it. Most of the time, however, we can feel when the opportunity exists but we have to commit and act on it.
Dave Magliano
Tatsu Dojo
Jissenkan Budo
Dojo Cho
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