YorkJitsu

Formal demonstrations of breakfalling in Shorinji Kan Jiu Jitsu are often focussed on something known as ukemi kata.  Unusually for a kata a lead individual usually dictates the sequence of falls based upon the space available in the dojo and the elements being demonstrated.  The falls are typically based around standard (Jitsu - style) forwards rolls, backwards rolls and sideways rolls.  Additionally front drop falls and hand stand breakfalls may also feature.

Behind an opponent is frequently the best place to be in a fight, and knowledge of the points below certainly improves your chances of coming out on top. The targets on the back (unlike the body) include areas of the head.

The body atemi kata covers a number of areas accessible when facing an opponent. It excludes areas of the head.

Overview

As every student of Jiu Jitsu knows the body is an amazing thing. It can withstand all manner of assaults, and whilst a student of Jiu Jitsu can explore their own limits, they must learn to exploit the major weaknesses of the human body. A perfect example of this sort of study is something known widely to martial artists as vital points, or to jitsuka studying Shorinji Kan Jiu Jitsu as ... "dangerous parts".

These "dangerous parts" are points on the body that when attacked will cause one of the following effects:

Empi Atemi Kata (typically shortened to empi kata) is a pre-arranged sequence of ten strikes using the elbows. The kata aims to demonstrate the student 's knowledge of how to use one of the hardest weapons the human body has to offer.

The kata should be performed with full body movement and each strike should (of course) be solid and precise.