Mastering Key Practices in Kenjutsu

Kenjutsu Hits: 26

Essential Techniques in Kenjutsu

Kenjutsu, the ancient Japanese art of swordsmanship, involves a wide range of techniques that are essential for mastering the use of the katana. These techniques not only include the physical aspects of handling the sword but also incorporate mental and spiritual disciplines. In this blog, we will explore the key techniques one should master in Kenjutsu, providing a comprehensive guide for practitioners at all levels.

Gripping the Katana

The proper grip on the katana is fundamental in Kenjutsu. The left hand grips the handle (Tuska) at the end with the little finger as far back on the handle as possible. The right hand grips the handle approximately 3 cm from the guard (Tsuba). Both hands should have the first two fingers extending along the handle, and the "V" formed by the first finger and thumb should be on the back of the handle. The little finger of both hands grips tightly, and each subsequent finger grips less tightly so that the first finger grips quite loosely .

Stances

Kenjutsu involves various stances, with the basic stance being the front foot facing directly forward. The back foot is in line with the front foot, is one shoulder width back, and is angled outwards at 45 degrees . Other stances include:

  • Jo-dan
  • Chu-dan
  • Ge-dan
  • Hasso (right and left)
  • Waki (right and left)

Sword Positions (Kamae)

Sword positions are critical in Kenjutsu for both offense and defense. The primary positions include:

  • Jo-dan
  • Chu-dan
  • Ge-dan
  • Hasso (right and left)
  • Waki (right and left)

Each position serves a specific purpose and is used strategically during combat .

Basic Cuts

There are eight basic cuts in Kenjutsu, which form the foundation of the sword techniques:

  • Right Kesa-giri (downward diagonal from right)
  • Left Kesa-giri (downward diagonal from left)
  • Right Kiri-age (upward diagonal from right)
  • Left Kiri-age (upward diagonal from left)
  • Right Yoko-giri (straight across from right)
  • Left Yoko-giri (straight across from left)
  • Choku-giri (straight down to head)
  • Tsuki (thrust to chest or throat)

Mastering these cuts is essential for any Kenjutsu practitioner, as they form the basis for more advanced techniques .

Target Preferences

In Kenjutsu, targets are prioritized based on their accessibility and the effectiveness of the strike:

  • Hands or Arms: The nearest target, often the first choice in combat.
  • Head and Shoulders: Downward strikes are powerful and difficult to defend against.
  • Throat: Usually attacked by a thrust (Tsuki).
  • Body: Attacked by thrust or slash under a descending cut.
  • Legs: The most challenging to cut as it leaves one exposed to a downward cut .

Attacking Principles

Successful attacking in Kenjutsu involves several key principles:

  • Footwork: Due to the range and speed of the sword, footwork is crucial for both offense and defense.
  • Range: Kenjutsu fights occur at a much longer range compared to other weapons like knives.
  • Synchronization: Sword, foot, and kiai (spirit shout) must work in unison.
  • Total Commitment: Every cut should be executed with total commitment, as there may not be a second chance.
  • Moment of Weakness: Attack the opponent during moments of vulnerability, such as a loss of concentration or when unprepared .

Defensive Principles

Effective defense in Kenjutsu requires constant awareness and strategic distancing:

  • Awareness: Always be aware of your surroundings, not just when an attack is likely.
  • Distancing: Maintain a distance that allows you to evade the opponent's sword while staying close enough to counter-attack.
  • Counter Strike: Strike immediately after evading an attack.
  • Simple Evasion: Blocking is less effective than evading the attack entirely .

Training Sequence

Kenjutsu training is more than just wielding a sword. It encompasses mental and spiritual development alongside physical training. The training sequence typically follows these steps:

  • Kihon O Manabu - Emphasize the basics.
  • Kaisu O Kasaneru - Development through repetition.
  • Jiga Ni Tsuite - Controlling your ego.
  • Dai-Kyo-Soku-Kei - Develop the techniques, add power, increase speed, and perfect them.
  • Saigo Made Einoku Suru - Persist to the end; never give up.
  • Yudan Nashi - Never off guard .

Conclusion

Kenjutsu is a deeply complex and disciplined martial art that requires dedication to both physical techniques and mental conditioning. Mastering the essential techniques such as gripping the katana, understanding various stances and sword positions, executing basic cuts, and adhering to both attacking and defensive principles is crucial for any practitioner. Continuous training, awareness, and spiritual alignment form the cornerstone of this ancient practice, making it not just a form of combat but a way of life.