Kaizen Kenjutsu (the art of the sword combat)

Kenjutsu is the Japanese martial art specializing in the use of the Japanese sword (katana), created in Japan in the 15th century. It is the art of using the Japanese sword, specifically once it has been drawn from the saya (sheath).

The Samurai saw the sword as a representation of the soul. In light of this, many Practitioners of kenjutsu began to question if a higher understanding could be achieved through practice and study with the sword. These swordsmen developed the art of the sword (kenjutsu) into not only a superior art of war but a way to cleanse the very depths of the soul. Many Katas were developed to practice the hidden techniques and spiritual attributes of the sword. The Katas were much like puzzles. Pictures of the art of war to be put together by the practitioner only after he could descramble them through unrelenting dedication and training in the art of Kenjutsu.

Kata (prearranged forms or exercises) are the usual way of learning the intricate motions required. Initially one practices solo, learning basic stances, ready positions (kamae), foot movements, angles and cutting techniques. Only after practitioner is able to complete proper conduct, later pairs kata (kumitachi) are performed. According to degrees of the practitioners, katas serve to apply both offensive techniques (attacks, strikes and cuts in various angles) and defensive techniques (moving away from the line of attack, blocks and sometimes counter attacks in various angles). Proper etiquette is to be kept at all times, techniques should be applied according to the practitioner’s level of experience, always in a most mature, concentrated mind focus in order to avoid and danger of injuries.

In the mental sphere, kata steels the nerves. It teaches one to control emotions and it improves the control over the body in movement through training. This dedicated study of kata brings one's body and soul into a balance state. The constant repetition of the imposed exercises stimulates one’s stamina and the assists with the endurance of discomfort and pain.

Learning these ancient techniques brings skills and abilities which are applicable in our daily lives: the confidence to face difficulties, to remain calm under pressure, teaches stress management. Practicing with the sword harmonizes the mind, body and spirit, it also creates resiliency of the body and openness of the mind that allows one to find solutions in life which otherwise might not be found.

Kenjutsu training largely consists of practicing with bokken (wooden swords) or katana (steel swords) in order to preserve the cutting techniques of real sword fighting. For safety reasons, free-sparring is seldom practiced with bokken or katana. Kaizen Kenjutsu also involves study of a variety of weapons which may include: spear, staff, short sword (wakasashi), and the sai known as the jutte. Targets are any targets of opportunity, preferences for specific areas are the head, wrists, solar plexus and legs.

Practice in the art of the sword is to refine and discipline our spirit.

Attain spiritual peace, enlightenment and calm resignation.

Promoting the power of mental stability

Cultivating concentration

Channelizing energy

Broadening up our perception

Building our reaction and co-ordination skills whilst also increasing our sense of balance

Bowing to the Sensei (Shirei)

Bowing to the Sword (Torei)

Wearing the Sword (Taito)

Standing Bow to Training Partner (Tachi Rei)

Gripping the Sword (Tsuka No Nigiri Kata)

Drawing Cut (Nukit Suke)

Chiburi (Blood removal)

Distance and Timing (Ma ai)

Metsuke (Eye Contact)

Kokyu (Breath Control)

Hakama

Keiko-Gi

Obi-Belt

During all our practice, we must always keep a “Beginners Mind”; whenever we enter the tatami our mind must be free of all thoughts, prejudgments and feelings. Let’s always remember “learning is the gate, not the house”.

Fighting Positions

TACHIWASA or TACHIAI (standing techniques)

ZADORI (sitting techniques)

Foot Foundation, Balance, Relaxed but Ready, Upper body always Erect, Shoulders Relaxed, Knees Bent.

Posture (Kamae Positions)

Middle Level (Chudan No Kamae)

Upper Level (Jodan No Kamae)

Lower Level (Gedan No Kamae)

Side on shoulder Level (Hasso No Kamae)

Side at the hip Level (Waki No Kamae)

Stances

Right 45 degree angle stance-Migi hammi dachi

Left 45 degree angle stance-Hidari hammi dachi

Attention stance-musubi dachi

Shoulder stance-hachiji dachi

Front stance-zenkutsu dachi

Horse Stance-kiba dachi

Back Stance-kokutsu dachi

Cat Stance-neko ashi dachi

Cross legged Stance-kosa dachi