In Aikido, Shikko means “knee walking.” It is a unique way of moving across the mat while staying in a seated, kneeling position.
It serves as the foundation for all seated techniques (Suwari Waza) and helps you develop a strong, stable center.
How to Perform Shikko
To move effectively on your knees, you follow these steps:
- Sit on Your Heels: Start in a formal kneeling position (Seiza).
- Live Toes: Tuck your toes under your feet so you can push off the ground.
- Lift and Swing: Lift one knee and swing it forward in a slight outward arc.
- Set the Knee: Place that knee down while simultaneously bringing your other foot forward.
- Stay Upright: Keep your back straight and your head level. Imagine a string pulling the top of your head toward the ceiling.
Why We Use It
Shikko may look unusual, but it offers several benefits for your training:
- Builds Core Strength: You must use your abdominal and hip muscles to move your weight, rather than just relying on your calf muscles.
- Improves Flexibility: It stretches and strengthens the toes, ankles, and knees over time.
- Lowers Your Center: It teaches you to stay connected to the ground. When you move well on your knees, your standing movement becomes much more stable.
- Historical Context: In old Japan, people often moved this way when inside a house or a palace to show respect and stay ready for a sudden attack.
Pro Tips for Beginners
- Don’t Thump: Try to place your knees down softly. If you bang your knees on the mat, you are dropping your weight rather than controlling it.
- Look Straight Ahead: Don’t look at your knees. Keeping your eyes on the horizon helps you maintain perfect posture.
- Move from the Hips: Think of your hips as the engine and your knees as the wheels. The movement starts in your center and flows down to your legs.
Safety Note: If you have a history of knee injuries, always check with your instructor before practicing Shikko. You can use extra padding or move slower to protect your joints while you build strength.