Japanese Sword
(Iaido & KenJitsu)
Iaido (or IaiJitsu) is the Japanese art of drawing the katana (Japanese sword) and striking your opponent with one smooth movement. Eishin ryu Iaido is one of the oldest styles of this art that was originally created for the elite ruling class of Japan. Eishin ryu includes techniques from the seated position (seiza waza), standing positions (tachi waza), partner exercises (kumidachi), and cutting practice (tameshigiri). In addition, Iaido includes a very intricate set of formalities and etiquette.
Kenjitsu (also written as KenJutsu,) is the art of using sword once it has been drawn from the scabbard (or saya). At DMA, we practice both single sword and two sword styles of Kenjitsu. This allows students to become familiar with all aspects of handling the live weapon. Kenjitsu focuses on the performance of kata, or prearranged movements, to learn and refine techniques. These kata are either performed as an individual or with a partner.
The last part required to become truly proficient in the use of the katana is free sparring, or keiko. At DMA, this is accomplished through the art of Kendo, using protective armor and a bamboo sword (shinai). The shinai is used for the safety of everyone involved, because the boken, or wooden sword that is often used in kata training can be just as deadly as a shinken or sharp sword.
Learning how to properly and effectively use the katana requires years of dedicated practice focusing on refining a few techniques to an extremely high level. If you are interested in learning more about this art, please contact Sensei Herreman for details and class times.
Kenjitsu (also written as KenJutsu,) is the art of using sword once it has been drawn from the scabbard (or saya). At DMA, we practice both single sword and two sword styles of Kenjitsu. This allows students to become familiar with all aspects of handling the live weapon. Kenjitsu focuses on the performance of kata, or prearranged movements, to learn and refine techniques. These kata are either performed as an individual or with a partner.
The last part required to become truly proficient in the use of the katana is free sparring, or keiko. At DMA, this is accomplished through the art of Kendo, using protective armor and a bamboo sword (shinai). The shinai is used for the safety of everyone involved, because the boken, or wooden sword that is often used in kata training can be just as deadly as a shinken or sharp sword.
Learning how to properly and effectively use the katana requires years of dedicated practice focusing on refining a few techniques to an extremely high level. If you are interested in learning more about this art, please contact Sensei Herreman for details and class times.