Mastering Kendo DVD by Noriyasu Sui

The Sword of the Genius, Junichi Haga! Vol. 1: Bamboo Sword Training and Kata

In this first volume of the series dedicated to the teachings of the genius Junichi Haga, Noriyasu Sui, the highest master of the Japanese Kendo Association, meticulously imparts the ancient art of Japanese swordsmanship known as "kendo." This volume focuses on bamboo sword training and kata, essential for understanding the principles of sword fighting and offensive techniques against opponents.

Contents:

• Basic Knowledge:

  • Holding a sword, wooden sword, or bamboo sword
  • Foot stance and footwork

• Practice Swings:

  • Three-step practice swings
  • Forward and backward practice swings
  • One-step practice swings, etc.

• Wearing Protective Gear:

  • Understanding distance:
    • Distance in one step and one sword
    • Horizontal distance
    • Vertical distance
    • Distance from the heart

• Basic Strikes/Practice Strikes:

  • Techniques such as jumping-in men strikes, body-attack men strikes, cutbacks with forward foot strikes, cutbacks with open foot strikes, one-handed strikes, etc.

• Forms:

  • Ten attack forms including Crushing, Spark, Fast Wind, Ryusui, Manji, Kagerou, Mt. Taizan, etc.

• Suspension Practice:

  • Leg sweeps
  • Grip strikes

• Ground Practice:

  • Techniques applicable in grounded scenarios

• Competition Practice:

  • Strategies for effective strikes and model matches

• Double-handed Strikes

Guidance and Supervision:
Noriyasu Sui, born in Wakayama Prefecture in 1942, commenced his kendo journey under Tatsuo Makino at the age of 12. His path crossed with Master Junichi Haga's at the Kodansha Noma Dojo during his time at Chuo University, resolving his longstanding doubts about kendo. In 1982, Sui founded the Japan Kendo Association to embody Master Haga's teachings and advance his own vision of kendo as a martial art. Since then, he has been dedicated to promoting and evolving kendo's practice and philosophy.