20/04/2026
To conclude the series on Aiki Jo we have this video on the 31 Jo Kata and its related Kumi Jo (Paired exercises).
Some things to keep in mind: Ueshiba Morihei Sensei was not one to teach in the 1,2,3 step by step system. He would usually show a technique or kata once or twice and it would be up to the student to "steal" what they could of the teachings.
Saito Morihiro Sensei, who was the student most present at the Iwama Dojo during the development of the Aikiken and Aikijo practices, was the one to break it down into the 31 step kata as we know it today. He found it much easier to teach it to his students this way.
As a Kata, it is a solo practice meant to aid in the memorisation of the forms. One can start off by practicing it in a linear fashion and then gradually add the necessary evasion footwork. It is not meant for application as one cannot possible prepare a whole set of 31 attacks and counters against an opponent because you can never know what his next move will be.
The Kumi jo on the other hand can be practiced with the intention of application as they are 3-4 step movements intended to teach timing (Awase), flow and correct distancing (Maai) when attacking and countering an opponent.
Finally, it must be noted that there is the possibility that the applied movements of this kata (and the uke's responses) can be open for interpretation. It is also possible that certain movements in this kata were intended for multiple attackers.
As usual when practicing such exercises please do so at the dojo under the supervision of your Sensei.
