Uke 受

Many people mistakenly think the term uke means “to block” or “to stop an attack.” In reality, however, uke derives from the Japanese verb ukeru, which literally means “to receive” or “to accept.”

For me, this concept represents the exact opposite of blocking or stopping something forcefully. Once you deeply understand this idea, your mindset will transform. Instead of attempting to block or resist your opponent’s energy, you learn to accept it, absorb it, and skillfully redirect it against your opponent.

When you fully embrace the principle of uke, you’ll find a smarter, more effective way to deal with conflict. Rather than struggling against overwhelming power, you harmonize with it, using your opponent’s own strength and momentum to defeat them.

This principle is the key to how a smaller, seemingly weaker person can effectively overcome someone who is much bigger and stronger. The truth is simple: you’ll never be able to completely block or overpower brute force. But by mastering uke, you learn to use your opponent’s force intelligently against them.

As you practice, remember: true strength lies in flexibility, adaptability, and receptiveness—not in rigid resistance.

Thijs Holtermann