Kenjutsu is a well-known martial art developed in Japan. It first began in the fifteenth century as a form of military preparation for the Samurai school, but it was quickly adopted by Ninja culture.
However, the title Kenjutsu has come to refer to a wide range of sword-based instruction, creating considerable confusion about the distinction between Kendo and Kenjutsu.
This article seeks to dispel some of the myths surrounding this intriguing Japanese martial style.
What Are the Fundamentals of Kenjutsu
Kenjutsu is a Japanese sword style that originated among the Samurai class. It can be practiced in the Japanese Swordsmanship Course Seattle, WA, individually or with a partner. Swinging a hefty sword around enhances body flexibility and strength; hence, practicing Kenjutsu is a means of self-improvement and physical growth.
A Kenjutsuka is a Kenjutsu expert; it takes several months and years of serious training to reach this level. This develops in qualities such as balance and coordination, concentration, and self-confidence that may be applied in everyday life.
The Process of Kenjutsu Training
As with other martial arts and sports, training inside a dojo under a skilled instructor is your finest chance. However, you would be unable to locate a dojo specialized in Kenjutsu and suitable instructors.
In such instances, numerous videos and training books can offer you adequate support to acquire a specific degree of competency.
This is also advantageous for those who want to practice at their leisure and convenience in terms of fitting workouts into their regular schedule.
How Does Kendo Differ from Kenjutsu?
Kenjutsu, as previously stated, refers to the tactic of the sword, while Kendo implies the way and manner of the sword.
Kenjutsu is far more akin to actual battle with live swords, whereas Kendo often consists of practicing with a bokken where both participants wear protective gear.
Kenjutsu is used to master how to injure or kill an opponent with a sword, while Kendo is utilized for self-growth and discipline. A learner will frequently begin by learning the fundamentals of Kendo before progressing to Kenjutsu.
Kendo is more conducive to solo practice, but Kenjutsu typically includes sparring with an opponent. However, Kenjutsu can also be done alone and with bamboo or wooden swords. Kenjutsu begins to reflect Kendo in the clear goals at this phase.
To draw a comparison, Kendo is skeet shooting, and Kenjutsu is live game hunting. Although the processes are similar, the ultimate outcomes are not.
The Benefits of Learning Kenjutsu
The goal of modern Kenjutsu isn’t just to win actual duels or fight using martial arts skills. While Kendo and Kenjutsu emerged through Samurai sword techniques, one among the many motivations why people perform it presently, at the Japanese Swordsmanship Course Seattle WA, is for personal benefits it can offer to the kendoka.
- Stress reduction: By fostering deep breathing, concentration, and awareness, swordsmanship can help alleviate anxiety and stress.
- Meaning of life: Martial artists frequently experience a sense of tranquility and confidence and restore harmony with who and what they are and one’s purpose in life.
- Emotional control: You may master your thoughts and emotions by performing kenjutsu.
- Grown Self-esteem: Martial art helps by reminding you how to recover from defeats and the significance of not allowing life to get you low.
The Bottom Line
Kenjutsu may appear to be brutal, yet it is not. It embodies samurai swordsmanship ideals. However, it also is a sport that aims to improve one’s character via perseverance and the implementation of Katana ideals.