Kenjutsu & Iaido Japanese sword arts straight from the source
Many people find great value in the exercise, discipline and practice of our sword arts. We teach an authentic old (ko-ryu) sword martial art that we personally learned in Japan. There are many places that will teach you sword 'things' in Rhode Island, but we are the only place where you will learn authentic Japanese swordsmanship from a teacher who learned it in Japan.
Practice is safe. Beginners start with an inexpensive bamboo or wooden sword before using an iaito (metal sword). Kenjutsu provides substantial but gentle exercise for the upper body, the core and the legs. It is a great activity for those who seek the benefits of martial arts but prefer little physical contact.
Techniques are easy to learn (you'll be moving along with the class in no time) but challenging to master. And it's fun!
Kenjutsu
Unlike modern kendo, kenjutsu is not "sword fighting" or scoring points in a match. It is focused on skills for stopping an enemy who is trying to kill you with a weapon- and it is very effective. With Kenjutsu you can learn to use anything held in the hands as an implement of self-defense.
Kenjutsu techniques are typically performed while standing or walking. Techniques may begin with the sword in it's scabbard or already drawn for battle.
Taira sensei visiting our school.
This unique martial art, formally known as 'Ryukyu Oke Hiden Bujutsu' is the only surviving sword style from Okinawa and has characteristics that are very different from mainland Japanese styles. For instance, we use both the left and right hands, striving to develop both sides of our body.
The royal family also included double edged swords and broadswords from China in it's arsenal and the use of two swords (nito-ryu) is a significant part of this style.
If you are a fan of Musashi and enjoy "the Book of Five Rings" you will find that this martial art is an ideal way to study and understand the strategies he discussed in his famous book.
Iaido
Iaido is a study in drawing the sword to cut your enemy while evading his attack. Techniques begin with the sword in it's scabbard.
Becoming skillful requires development of sensitivity to the most subtle details of your movement.
While some schools practice only Iaido, without knowledge of kenjutsu, they are two sides of the same coin and should not be seperated. We offer a full sword curriculum with an emphasis of developing exceptionally functional and well-rounded sword skills.
Okinawa, with Takamiyagi sensei
This is a superb discipline for improving mental focus and inner calm. As we strive for the ability to respond to a sudden attack from everyday standing or sitting positions, or while walking, we need to develop a calm but highly alert mental state and superb posture. As you gain experience, the coming together of your mind and body, and the ability to control your physical and mental poise, are significant benefits of this practice.
With Taira sensei on Okinawa
The addition of sword study can help any martial artist. Sword experience changes the way you view distance, efficiency, speed, focus and power. It teaches timing, balance, precision and mental focus in a way that has been refined throughout centuries of experience.
This unique style, which values functionality over ritual and form, is changing the way people view the relationship between the sword and self-defense.
And, don't forget, it's fun.
For more about the use of weapons in this martial art click here.
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, your students, or even just for an informal group of friends. Maybe your management staff could use some interesting activity together. 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
