ken-jutsu sources

V

VICIOUS

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Apr 14, 2006
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Hi, I am looking for a good visual reference (video or book) to help me understand and maybe even start practicing the art of Ken-jutsu. I have been in the Filipino arts for awhile, and have studied the rapier for a few years, i figured i would try something new. I just want a couple of really good sources to start off with, a good foundation is everything in the martial arts in my opinion.

Thanks,

Vicious
 
I would avoid James Williams videos as a beginer. He is one of the fastest cutters I have seen but it is at the expense of some important safety issues. Proper Ken Jutsu whether in the form of kendo, Iai-do or batto-jutso all emphasize certain techniques for safety. I don't believe these safe sword handling techniques should be reduced or skipped. If you like James I would get normal training then pursue his instruction style. I'm sure I will get mugged for this opinion and I'm sure some people think this trade-off is worth it to practice in more "combat like" situations and I will not argue that. It is true the samurai faced much deadlier training than we modern students do, but death was much more acceptable in ancient japan. I only say all this because you emphasized a foundation on which to build. James said out loud at a tai kai that he wouldnt enter because the judges would disqualify him despite his fast cuts due to his technique. I respect and admire the guy, I just dont think he teaches the basics the rest of the Japanese sword world expects you to have if your going train with them. Again this is only my opinion. James is an awesome guy who goes to more lengths to live in a samurai way than anyone else I know of. He is also lightning fast and tries to think outside the box of standard iai and bring real world training back into it. I just wouldn't send the new guy running to him for training. Most ken-jutso starts with Toyama Ryu, a style developed by the Japanese military in conjuncture with several national treasure swordsman to reduce flashy styles into combat proven techniques that could be taught to soldiers. Once you have the cuts and safety down check James out for sure.
 
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