All Wanomichi instructors follow this training program and perfect it themselves in this Way. The practice of Wanomichi is divided into parts according to the following program:

 

1 - Kaizen Dosa:

a) Preparatory exercises to master one's own body in space and to acquire the automatism necessary to execute the techniques. This stage is essential to integrate the fundamental principles and should be practiced continuously. Exercises with a partner are also included in this preparatory program.

Basic movements (Suburi) of Aikiken and Aikijo taught in Iwama + complementary additions.

- Shinshin no junbi or physical and mental preparation adapted to the needs of Wanomichi practitioners from Asthanga Yoga and Gokul Yoga in order to strengthen and soften the body in the best conditions. By combining breath control with energy work, this preparation also helps to rebalance the body as a whole.

- Kata:  Enshin no Kata (Heart of the circle).

Four modules of two antagonistic techniques with partner in preparation for Taijutsu. With bare hands and with a jo for the study of the axes and levers specific to Iwama techniques.

 

2 - Taijutsu: 

Program applied to the techniques of Iwama Taijutsu. Progressive practice passing first by the study of the foundations (Kihon) and then of the dynamic forms (Ki no nagare).

The most advanced forms correspond to Kaeshi waza or reversals of techniques. They correspond to the most elaborate and free forms of harmonisation with the partner.

 

3 - Bukiwaza and Bukidori

Program based on the authentic Aikiken, Aikijo and Bukidori techniques of Iwama.

Complementary techniques have been added in the continuity of this program.

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Practicing Wanomichi.

Wanomichi is accessible to all, men and women of all ages, as well as to children to whom values of respect and mutual aid are also taught.

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The training is divided into three main progressing stages:

1 - Depth study of the basic techniques and understanding of the fundamental principles: Kihon

2 - Fluid forms proceeding from the basic program: Ki no Nagare

3 - Application of the fundamental principles in a freer, creative execution of the techniques: Takemusu

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• Kaizen Dosa: The word kaizen is a fusion of the two Japanese words "kai" and "zen" which mean respectively "change" and "better". The common translation is "continuous improvement", i.e. analysing in order to improve, making it more efficient. This term is used in Japan in various fields.

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• Ashtanga Yoga - Gokul Yoga: Two forms of dynamic yoga including postures accompanied by stretching to develop energy with positions aiming at accumulating the vital breath in the deep parts of the body tissues thanks to a synchronisation of the movements with the breathing. Some postures promote the "sheathing" of the body in a spectacular way. The center of the body guides all movements as in the Wanomichi techniques. Yoga means Union.