The aikidoka avoids the collision, absorbs the attack, and lets the attacker pass. He or she is expected not to apply a lock immediately or deliberately cause damage. Furthermore, when faced with multiple attackers, it is important to deflect the various attacks, avoiding immobilizations.

 

This is where kokyu nage makes sense, a set of techniques that all share, at first glance, the fact that they don't grab uke. Contact with the partner is minimal. We harness his energy, letting it flow. We resolve the attack without immobilizing and remain on guard.

 

But kokyu nage also has another meaning: the coordination of breathing with movement and postural work, as well as good control of distance (ma ai) and balance.