Techniques include: The various cuts, drawing and sheathing, evasion techniques, blocking techniques, formal sequences, partner work and tameshigiri (cutting rolled straw mats) to test the efficacy of the students cutting techniques.
Tameshigiri:
We practice tameshigiri in order to test our skills that result from hours of training.
Traditionally a mat made of rice straw is used called Tatami. The mat is rolled up and then presented on a cutting stand as a target.
Other training may include:Wakizashi (Short sword), Tanto (dagger), Jo (short staff) and unarmed combat techniques.
The Classes:
Classes are geared toward combat strategies of the Japanese sword arts, combining physical and subtle aspects that a warrior needs to be a rounded Human Being and harmoniously able to respond to daily living. A warriors path is not just about killing. The skills learned in training and the strategies assist us in all aspects of our lives. As in all Bushido, Warrior training requires that the formalities and required respect met. Student at my school are encouraged to strive to uphold these manners and etiquette as part of their development.
I emphasise the training towards the development of the student on the Warrior path to discover who they are as "warriors or seekers" of the Self.
Classes may have a Philosophical aspect to them to invoke understanding and bring on the awareness of living the Bushido Way.
Training starts with the bokken (wooden sword) and once I feel that a student can be safe with his/her live blade I will allow its use with certain training. I recommend that all students acquire an Iaito(a Katana replica that is not sharp) in order to train safely.
Safety is of the utmost importance and is strictly expected from each student. Those that do not cooperate are asked to leave.
