Fundamental movements and steps which are used for repositioning.

Tai-sabaki is a collective term for a number of movements, though it is often more specifically used for the Irimi-tenkan movement. Tai-sabaki movements and step sequences are carried out in an upright posture, and they are usually practised from a standing position. Their goal is to exercise movements that help Tori leave the line of attack, enter or blend with Uke's movement.

The following list comprises the most common movements:

• Ayumi-ashi or Irimi-ashi (straight step)
• Tsugi-ashi (gliding step or lunge)
• Tenkan (180-degree turn on one foot)
• Kaiten or Tenkai (180-degree turn of the hip, feet stay grounded)
• Irimi-tenkan (step, followed by a Tenkan movement)
• Irimi-Kaiten (step, followed by a Kaiten movement)
• Shikko (walking on the knees)