Closely related to the concept of Nagare (flow) is Ritsudo (rhythm), or being able to adjust to the action of the fight. This rhythm is an integrated part of any activity that involves the corresponding of body dynamics between two or more individuals in movement. Rhythm is an essential part of Taijutsu, because one has to be able to adapt to the opponent’s rhythm as he attacks. However, being able to break or change the rhythm is just as important, because a constant rhythm is very predictable. A change of rhythm gains primarily three favorable effects:

1. If you fight with a certain rhythm and then suddenly change it, you gain the benefit of surprise since the opponent has adapted to your first set rhythm and is not expecting the attack to be delivered at that time.

2. Constantly changing the rhythm makes you unpredictable, and the opponent cannot pull any tricks on you as described in 1 (above).

3. Also by changing your rhythm, you are breaking the opponent rhythm because he is forced to change his in order to parry any attacks. This is both confusing and disruptive, and may lead to beneficial outcomes as breaking the opponent's balance, disrupting any coming attack, and in addition to messing with his head.

Goeran began training in '86 and trained until late '90, when he took time off until '97. He is now happily back where and trains at Bujinkan Dojo Midt-Troms and Bujinkan Dojo Tromsoe. He is currently a 3rd Kyu and looks to gain more insight by networking with others. Goeran may be reached via e-mail gorang@stud.hitos.no