22/01/2026
In Wanomichi Aiki and the traditional Aikido system, **Hanmi** is the fundamental oblique or "half-body" stance that forms the basis of all movements [1]. The term literally translates to "half" (*Han*) "body" (*Mi*) [1].
Here is a detailed explanation of its forms, principles, and applications according to the sources:
# # # **1. Basic Types of Hanmi**
* **Migi Hanmi:** A basic stance with the **right foot forward** [1]. This is the standard posture required for **Ken (sword) exercises** [2].
* **Hidari Hanmi:** A basic stance with the **left foot forward** [1]. This posture is typically instrumental in **empty-handed (Taijutsu) exercises** [2].
* **Aihanmi (Equal Position):** When both you and your partner have the **same foot forward** (e.g., both in right hanmi) [1].
* **Gyaku Hanmi (Mirror Position):** When you and your partner have **opposite feet forward** (e.g., you are in right hanmi and your partner is in left hanmi) [1].
# # # **2. The Geometric Principle ($\triangle$)**
Hanmi is characterized by the **triangular pattern (Sankakuho)** of the feet [3]. By assuming an oblique posture, you enter the "sphere of the opponent" in a way that minimizes your own target area—a concept often referred to as **making the body small** (*Hito e mi*) [4-6].
The sources emphasize that even if your foot position is not mathematically precise, you can achieve the necessary control if you **twist your hips (torso) appropriately** to deflect an attack [5].
# # # **3. Relationship to the "Back Triangle" (Hito e mi)**
The most advanced application of hanmi is the **back triangle stance**, also known as **Hito e mi** or **Ura Sankaku** [7, 8].
* **Structure:** In a right hanmi posture, you form a triangle by aligning the **outside of your right foot** with the **inside of your left foot** [7].
* **Purpose:** This alignment is a primary requirement for receiving attacks [9]. It allows you to **execute a strike or thrust without receiving a blow in return** because your body is moved out of the line of attack [7, 10].
* **Mobility:** Keeping the center of your body in line with this stance makes movement in all directions—forward, back, left, and right—significantly easier [11].
# # # **4. Hanmi in Riai (The Combined System)**
The principle of **Riai** dictates that body movements are identical whether you are holding a weapon or not [8, 9].
* **Sword Stance:** The right shoulder is considered the "key" to sword exercises, necessitating a right hanmi [2].
* **Empty-Handed Stance:** Conversely, the left shoulder is considered instrumental for Taijutsu, which is why empty-handed practice often begins in left hanmi [2].
* **Unified Movement:** Regardless of the specific hanmi used, the **rotation of the hips** determines the movement of the feet, and the **movement of the head** determines the movement of the hands [12].
# # # **5. Hanmi Handachi**
You may also encounter **Hanmi Handachi**, which refers to a "half-sitting, half-standing" position [3]. This is used in specific training where the defender (*Tori*) is in a sitting position (*Suwariwaza*) while the attacker (*Uke*) stands, requiring the defender to maintain the principles of hanmi while mobile on their knees [13].
