Ukemi

受身

Art of breakfalling safely to absorb impact energy without injury during throws.

Quick Facts

CategoryConcept / Principle

Pronunciation/[oo-keh-mee]/

Alternative NamesBreakfall technique, Art of falling safely

Definition

Ukemi ('receiving body') is the mandatory foundational skill in Judo, Aikido, and Jujutsu. By slapping the tatami mat with open arms, curving the spine, and exhaling on contact, impact energy dissipates harmlessly.

Related Terms

Tatami畳

Traditional and modern impact-absorbing mat forming the floor of a dojo.

Tori取り

Practitioner who executes the technique (throw, lock, or defense) in partner training.

Uke受け

Practitioner who initiates the attack and receives the partner's defensive technique.

Associated Martial Arts

Kosen Judo Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Yoshinkan Aikido Tomiki Aikido Iwama Ryu Kito-ryu Kawaishi Judo Yoseikan Aikido Real Aikido Six Harmonies Praying Mantis (Liuhe Tanglangquan)