What Is It Like To Train In A Japanese Sword Art: JSA + Kenjutsu?
What is it like to train in a Japanese sword art?
As a student interested in the sword arts, what would be a reasonable experience and expectations
Japanese sword arts are a combination of many things, but at the core of them is the idea of transmission- passing the experiences of the samurai from one generation to the next, in such a way that nothing is lost.
Much of this transmission is quite different compared to modern martial arts. As a student of the Japanese sword arts (JSA), the most important thing is to fit in with the group and be mindful of harmony. “Fitting in” means being mindful of place and the lessons, and assisting the group to run as smoothly as possible.
There is a culture to Japanese sword arts, and the Japanese martial arts in general, and as soon as you learn these, as specified by the school or ryu one belongs to, the easier it will be. As a note, watching what the seniors of the dojo do, and how they act (sempai) is important. Ask them any questions regarding what and how one should be doing or acting.
Here are a few considerations to help fit in…
Don’t ask about training with a real sword. Safety is paramount and training is conducted depending on the school and style with a wooden sword (bokken) or a padded piece of bamboo (shinai). Always treat and observe these as if they were a real sword. Etiquette and mindfulness is important in kenjutsu and it start with how one conducts themselves in carrying a training sword.
Be ready to spend most of your training practicing the kihon- body postures, cuts, and ways of moving the sword. Depending on the school, perhaps years of this before one gets to “sword fighting”. There is a reason to the process, one that is hundreds of year’s old- allow yourself and be ready to go through the process.
If you have a question you can ask the teacher (sensei), but a better resource would be to ask your senior(s) in the dojo- your sempai. They can guide you correctly in asking so there is no friction or tension being created between particular situations.
Speak less (or not at all) and spend your time in the dojo listening and watching. Are you there to impress others with how good you (think) you are, or are you there to receive instruction? More talking is less training with the teacher.
Be ready for the journey!
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