In Aikido, Gokyo means “fifth teaching.” It is a specific pinning technique designed to defend against knife attacks (Tanto Dori).
While it looks very similar to the first teaching (Ikkyo), the way you grip the attacker’s arm is different to keep yourself safe from a blade.
How You Perform the Technique
To execute Gokyo, you focus on controlling the attacker’s wrist and elbow:
- Lead the Attack: As the opponent thrusts a knife toward you, you move off the line of the attack.
- The Underhand Grip: You grab the attacker’s wrist from underneath. You turn your palm upward so your thumb points toward their elbow. This specific grip prevents them from turning the knife toward your arm.
- Stretch the Arm: You press your other hand down on their elbow and extend their arm forward. This breaks their balance.
- The Pin: You lead the attacker to the ground. You finish by pinning their arm straight out, keeping your body far enough away from the knife so they cannot reach you.
Why It’s Unique
- Knife Defense: Most other pins allow the attacker’s palm to face you. Gokyo forces the attacker’s palm away, which keeps the edge of a knife pointed away from your body.
- Wrist Pressure: The grip creates a slight “kink” in the wrist that makes it very difficult for the attacker to maintain a strong hold on a weapon.
- Elbow Control: Like many Aikido pins, Gokyo relies on keeping the attacker’s elbow flat against the mat. If the elbow stays down, the attacker cannot get up.
Comparison: Gokyo vs. Ikkyo
It is easy to confuse these two, but their purpose is different:
| Feature | Ikkyo (1st Teaching) | Gokyo (5th Teaching) |
| Grip | You grip over the top of the wrist. | You grip from underneath the wrist. |
| Main Goal | Control the person’s center. | Control a weapon and protect your arm. |
| Hand Position | Palm faces down. | Palm faces up (to start). |
Key Principles for Success
- Keep the Arm Straight: If the attacker bends their elbow, they can pull the knife back toward you. You must keep their arm fully extended.
- Move Your Hips: Don’t try to push the arm down with just your shoulder. Use your weight and step forward to drive the attacker to the mat.
Safety Note: When practicing Gokyo with a wooden knife (Tanto), always move slowly. The underhand grip puts a specific kind of pressure on the wrist and elbow that can be intense if applied too quickly.