Kenjutsu is an art of efficient skills for using a sword (or stick) to defeat an enemy on the battlefield. Kenjutsu techniques usually begin with the sword already drawn from it's scabbard and while standing or walking.
What is Iaido?
Iaido is similar to Kenjutsu but techniques begin whith the sword in its' scabbard. Iaido is practiced from a seated (kneeling) position as well as standing.
Doesn't sound practical. Why do it?
1. You'll get substantial exercise for your upper body, core and legs- a great activity for the benefits of martial arts with little physical contact.
2. Improve timing, hand/eye coordination, balance, precision and gain the mental focus to pull it all together.
3. Self-control- the ability to control your physical and mental poise are significant benefits of this practice.
4. Powerful self-defense skills- stick, umbrella or most anything can replace the sword. A skilled swordsman wielding a stick is an adversary best left alone!
5. The best reason- Its' fun and you get to use a sword! I can't take credit for this one. A student offered this as his motivation for taking sword classes.
Is it safe?
Safety is a high priority of our practice. You will start with an inexpensive bamboo sword called a shinai, or a wooden sword before using an iaito (metal sword). In fact, some people choose to never use a metal sword. As you advance you may participate in more challenging skills, but only when you are ready.
Is it difficult to learn?
Techniques are easy to learn but challenging to master. You'll be moving along with the class in no time. And it's fun!
What about the funny clothing?
The hakama, baggy pleated pants, are a formal outfit. Some students like them, others prefer our regular martial arts uniform or the black samugi pants and T-shirt that we offer. It's up to you.
Why Kodokai and not the place down the street?
Well, if you're going to learn Japanese swordsmanship you might as well learn the real thing, right? We are the only place where you will learn Japanese swordsmanship from a teacher who learned it in Japan. A lot of martial arts schools simply teach made-up 'things' or a fragments of a sword work, Iaido without Kenjutsu, for instance. We offer a full curriculum.
The style we teach is not fancy (the battlefield was no place for fancy moves) , not heavy into ritual and symbolism. It is straightforward and efficient and values function over form.
Okinawa, with Taira sensei
On Okinawa with Takamiyagi sensei
This style is called 'Ryukyu Oke Hiden Bujutsu' and is a recognized ko-ryu (old authentic martial art). It was the private martial art of the royal family that ruled Okinawa. It has characteristics, such as using both the left and right hands, that are different from mainland Japanese styles.
The royal family also included double edged swords and broadswords in it's arsenal and the use of two swords (nito-ryu) is a significant part of this style.
Sounds like fun, right? So get started! You could be with us this week!
Currently, (March 2012) we offer sword classes on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings.
Attention School Owners and Martial Arts Clubs
Kodokai can bring sword classes to you! If you are within an hours drive of the dojo we can visit your business or school to provide seminars for you or your students.
Sword classes can round out your offerings with a fascinating authentic experience that can support or contrast your current curriculum.
Give us a call. We'll see if we can come up with something that meets your needs!
(401) 762-2201 175 Eddie Dowling Hwy. (Rt. 146A, Park Square) North Smithfield, RI 02895
