Japanese sword combat stances
Japanese sword stances, known as Nihontō no kamae (日本刀の構え), form the foundation of kenjutsu —the art of Japanese swordsmanship. These are not just static positions but mental states of readiness that base the tactical usage on emotion regulation.
The main set of postures primarily utilizes the unique characteristics of the Katana: its distinctive curvature, two-handed grip, and single cutting edge.
While the Katana is traditionally wielded with both hands, many systems also explore one-handed techniques. This versatility extends to shorter blades in the shōtō classification, from the wakizashi (脇差) and kodachi down to the knife-length tanto. This range of techniques reflects adaptability in real-world scenarios.
The body position in each stance is a calculated result of multiple factors: the practitioner's orientation to the opponents, the terrain, and various offensive and defensive strategies.
Kenjutsu, the general name for the art of Japanese swordsmanship, has a rich history that dates back to the samurai era but has evolved to find relevance in contemporary times. For those intrigued by this martial art, understanding its five fundamental stances, or kamae, is crucial. These stances, explained after the video below, serve as the foundation for mastering both offensive and defensive techniques.
Video of Japanese Katana stances
The Five Fundamental sword Stances
- Central Stance: Chūdan-no-kamae
The Chūdan-no-kamae is often the first stance taught to newcomers. It's a balanced position that offers equal opportunities for both attack and defense. In this stance, the practitioner safeguards their torso and right wrist.
To assume this stance, position your left foot slightly behind your right and elevate your left heel. Keep your hips squared to the front and your shoulders relaxed for optimal balance and readiness. This stance embodies AKBAN's principle of adaptability, allowing for quick transitions between offensive and defensive movements. - Elevated Stance: Jōdan-no-kamae
Also known simply as Jōdan, this is the elevated stance where the sword is held aloft above the head, its tip angled backward. There are variations to this stance: one involves leading with your foot, while another is executed with a single-handed grip on the sword. The former is generally more prevalent in modern kenjutsu practice. This stance reflects emphasis on decisive action and the psychological aspects of combat. - Lowered Stance: Gedan-no-kamae
In Gedan-no-kamae, the sword is extended forward, aimed at the opponent's waist or knee, depending on whether the practitioner is engaged in kendo or kenjutsu. This stance is a subset of the Chūdan-no-kamae and is primarily defensive, designed to parry incoming attacks and set up counterstrike. It exemplifies the importance of solid foundation and patient strategy. - Octagonal Stance: Hassō-no-kamae
Named for its eight-sided form, Hassō-no-kamae is an aggressive stance. The practitioner steps forward with the left foot and holds the sword almost vertically, the hilt aligned with the right shoulder. This stance is geared toward heightened situational awareness and is primarily offensive in nature. It aligns with focus on projecting energy and developing a comprehensive understanding of one's environment. - Concealed Stance: Waki-gamae
Waki-gamae is a deceptive stance where the sword is hidden behind the body, revealing only the pommel, or back of the tsuba, to the opponent. This stance was more common when there were no regulations on blade length, allowing the practitioner to disguise the length of their weapon and draw the opponent into a false sense of security. It's particularly effective for launching surprise attacks, as it conceals the sword's movements. This stance highlights the strategic use of misdirection and the element of surprise in combat.
Historical Context and Global Perspectives
The development of these stances is deeply rooted in Japan's martial history. However, similar principles can be found in other sword-fighting traditions around the world. The renowned orientalist Sir Richard Francis Burton, in his seminal work "The Book of the Sword" (1884), drew fascinating parallels between Japanese techniques and those found in European and Middle Eastern sword arts.
For instance, the principles behind Chūdan-no-kamae bear striking similarities to the central guard positions in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), particularly in longsword techniques. This global perspective on sword combat is central to AKBAN's approach, which seeks to understand and synthesize martial wisdom from diverse cultures and historical periods.
Beyond Physical Technique: The Philosophy of the Sword
In Japanese martial tradition, the sword is more than a weapon - it's a symbol of the warrior's spirit. The study of sword stances in AKBAN goes beyond mere physical technique. It encompasses philosophical concepts such as:
- Zanshin (残心): The state of total awareness, a concept that AKBAN applies not just to combat but to all aspects of life.
- Mushin (無心): The mind without mind, representing a state of flow and intuitive action that AKBAN practitioners strive to achieve in their training.
- Fudoshin (不動心): The immovable mind, embodying Emotion Regulation and resilience in the face of adversity.
These philosophical elements elevate the practice of sword stances from a mere physical exercise to a comprehensive system of personal development - a core tenet of AKBAN's teaching methodology.
Understanding stances is essential for anyone serious about mastering kenjutsu. Each stance has its own set of techniques and applications, offering a rich tapestry of tactical options for the practitioner. As you explore the videos and detailed descriptions of each stance below, we encourage you to reflect on how these principles might apply to your own life and practice. Remember, in AKBAN, every movement is an opportunity for learning, every stance a gateway to deeper understanding.
