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.