Maai
(間合い)
Glossary Entry
A Japanese term referring to the spatial and temporal relationship between practitioners—the interval from which action becomes possible.
MEANING & ETYMOLOGY
間
(ma)
interval, space, gap, or pause.
合い
(ai)
Mutual relation, fit, or coming together, derived from the verb au (合う).
Term Type
Martial principle
lITERAL SENSE
While often interpreted as "space-interval," maai conveys more than physical distance. It expresses the dynamic relationship between practitioners in terms of space, timing, and positioning.
See Also
References
Draeger, Donn F. (1973). Classical Bujutsu: The Martial Arts and Ways of Japan, Volume I. Weatherhill.
Inagawa, Ikuko (2021). “A Study of the Maai of ‘Ju-no-Kata’ Based on the Original Documents.” Bulletin of Nippon Sport Science University, 50, 1083–1093.
Tokeshi, Jinichi (2003). Kendo: Elements, Rules, and Philosophy. University of Hawaiʻi Press.
Study with the Kobukan U.S. Shibu
Want to learn more? The Kobukan United States Shibu provides a number of options to train with us, flexible enough to suit your location, schedule, and interest.