Sword Fighting Lessons
30
I've practiced various sword arts for four years now, starting with fencing, then moving on to kendo, and kenjutsu, and finally the fundamental principles of swordsmanship, which allow me to fight quite effectively with almost any weapons. I can provide lessons in swordsmanship technique and principals including.
Distance
Timing
Three Dimensional Geometry
Philosophy of Swordsmanship
And most importantly Relationship, all martial arts can be reduced how effectively one relates to their opponent.
I have basic protective gear (hands, arms, body, chest and face) and all sparring materials. Sparring begins with extremely light and flexible bamboo practice swords (shinai) and progresses to light contact with wooden weapons, upwards to medium contact with synthetic plastic swords and onto dull steel swords for very dedicated practitioners. A lot of time will be spent working on stepping, holding the sword correctly, methods of striking, simultaneous attack and defense, and other types of body coordination. After that begins principles of relaxation, fluidity, working with being and non-being and giving up the mind to completely relate to the opponent. Advanced techniques include fighting with multiple weapons, incorporating striking and grappling into swordsmanship and fighting with improvised weapons.
Training & Qualifications
I am a mostly self developed practitioner and cannot promise to teach any particular style. My teachers have all focused on the nature of body and relationship as fundamentals for swordsmanship which can be applied to any weapon. Mostly I like just having a really good time though :). This is a very difficult practice to find an 'in' for since even most martial arts schools don't have swordsmanship classes. I can promise to provide guidance in sword sparring and give direction to anyone dedicated to the art, help to find resources, and have a lot of fun.
Availability & Preferences
Very flexible.