Choosing the Most Suitable Kenjutsu Style: Key Considerations

Kenjutsu, the art of Japanese swordsmanship, has a rich history and a diverse array of styles. For anyone looking to practice Kenjutsu, selecting the most suitable style is a critical decision. This blog post provides a comprehensive guide to the factors you should consider to choose the right Kenjutsu style based on your individual needs, preferences, and goals.

Understanding Different Kenjutsu Schools

Kenjutsu encompasses a variety of schools, each with its unique techniques, philosophies, and training methods. Knowing these can help you make an informed choice:

• Itto Ryu: Emphasizes not losing rather than winning. Key techniques include kiri-otoshi, a maneuver that deflects an opponent’s attack and makes a counterattack in one smooth motion.
• Jigen-Ryu: Focuses on rapid attacks and offensive maneuvers, favored by the Satsuma clan.
• Kashima Style: Known for the concept of "one cut" (hitotsutachi), which involves countering an opponent's attack at the last second.
• Mijin-Ryu: Emphasizes power and speed with techniques incorporating leaping and running attacks.
• Nito-Ryu: Teaches the famous Two-Sword Technique, allowing a practitioner to fight with a sword in either hand.
• Yagyu Shinkage-Ryu: Focuses on a cautious approach and disarming techniques.

Key Factors to Consider

Personal Goals

One of the first things to consider is what you aim to achieve with Kenjutsu. Are you interested in historical reenactment, modern sports, self-defense, or personal development? Each goal might align better with a different school. For example, if you're interested in rapid offensive techniques, Jigen-Ryu may be suitable. If you are more inclined towards a balanced and cautious approach, Yagyu Shinkage-Ryu might be better.

Physical Condition and Capabilities

Your physical fitness level and capabilities are also crucial. Schools like Mijin-Ryu, which require high agility for leaping and running attacks, may not be suitable for someone with limited mobility. On the other hand, Kashima Style’s emphasis on precise, single-cut techniques could be less physically demanding while still being effective.

Experience Level

Different Kenjutsu schools cater to different experience levels. If you are a beginner, look for a school that emphasizes foundational techniques and gradual progression, such as Itto Ryu. More advanced practitioners might appreciate the complexity and challenges of styles like Nito-Ryu.

Training Methods

Some Kenjutsu schools incorporate additional elements such as mental and spiritual training. For example, the monk Takuan emphasized that "technical knowledge is not enough" and that one must transcend technique so that the art becomes an "artless art" growing out of the unconscious.

Availability of Instructors and Dojos

Access to qualified instructors and proper training facilities is another practical consideration. Some Kenjutsu schools are extremely rare and might require you to seek instruction in Japan, while others have more widespread availability.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Kenjutsu style requires careful consideration of your personal goals, physical condition, experience level, training methods, and the availability of instructors. By understanding the different schools and what they offer, you can find a style that best suits your needs and helps you achieve your objectives in the practice of this revered Japanese martial art.