Bericthe

Morning

After registration and greeting, training began with Kenko Taiso. The teacher then proposed the study of the 16th Tsuzukiwaza. This involves first of all gripping attacks on the torso, and then Zagi-Handachi techniques. Particular attention was paid to the Mae-Geri and Yoko-Geri attacks, performed in the Seiza position. Various solutions were proposed and practiced, starting with those shown by Doshu at the time of the creation of the Tsuzukiwaza. After the training, the entire sequence was demonstrated by young practitioners.
Afterwards, there was a short break of 10 minutes, during which the aikidoka could refresh themselves with mineral water, seasonal fruit and sweets.
The class continued with the practice of the 3rd Tsuzukiwaza. The attack here is Ryotemochi. Berhard recalled that this attack and the subsequent technique were inspired by a method of arrest by the police.
In this case too, the techniques were studied in detail, with particular attention to the possible solutions of the 7th technique, in which Uke holds the nage arm against his chest.
As before, the entire sequence was demonstrated by young aikidoka.
During the lunch break, the fog had cleared and the practitioners took a short walk towards the centre of Vercelli in beautiful, sunny weather until they reached the restaurant, where they had a good chat, a good meal and a good drink. At lunch, Maestro Maurizio Volpe from nearby Novara also joined the group and greeted the participants.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, training was resumed. At Bernhard's invitation, Francesco led the Kenko-Taiso and the Aiki-Taiso.
Bernhard then suggested the practice of three techniques: Shomenuchi Kokyunage, Shomenuchi Koteoroshi and Yokomenuchi Shihonage. Each of these techniques was practiced by varying the attack in three forms:
1. with bare hands
2. attack with tanto
3. attack with bokken.
For each of these attacks, the details were analyzed: in particular, emphasis was placed on disarming and immobilization.
A few minutes before 6:00 p.m., the scheduled end of the lesson, a short guided breathing session was carried out with the sounds of woods.
The seminar ended with the satisfaction of all participants, both for the practical suggestions of the teacher and for the warm atmosphere and commitment in which the day was spent.
A big thank you to Bernhard Boll who, thanks to his level and experience, proposed challenging exercises but suitable for everyone.
See you soon on the tatami!
Francesco

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