Concepts Part 3
17. 手の内 (Te no Uchi) ｰ Grip
In Jukendo and Tankendo, there are terms “Grip (Te no Uchi)” and “the action within the palm” (掌中の作用). This refers comprehensively to the following physical actions:
For Tankendo,
(1). How to grip the shinai or other weapon with the right hand
(2). How to apply force with the palm
(3). The degree of muscle contraction in both hands during technique execution
(4). The degree of muscle relaxation in both hands after technique execution
A). Gripping with the Right Hand
The right hand should lightly grip the handle of the shinai, with the string side up, using the little finger, ring finger, and middle finger, while the index finger and thumb only need to be placed lightly on the handle.
B). Applying Force
There should be almost no tension in the shoulders or arms, and the grip should tighten at the moment the technique is executed.
C). Muscle Contraction and Relaxation
When executing a technique, the grip of the right hand should align the blade angle and the direction of force.
For Jukendo,
(1) How to grip the Mokuju with both hands
(2) How to apply force with the palms
(3) The degree of muscle contraction in both hands during technique execution
(4) The degree of muscle relaxation in both hands after technique execution
These are the comprehensive physical actions involved.
A). How to hold a Mokuju
For the right hand, grip the protruding part of the Mokuju (Tokki Bu) from above with the pinky, ring finger, and middle finger lightly, while the index finger and thumb should merely rest on it. It is best to slightly bend the wrist inward. For the left hand, hold the middle section of the Mokuju lightly with the index finger, middle finger, ring finger, and pinky (as if gently holding a raw egg).
B). Applying Force
The shoulders and arms should be almost relaxed, with the grip tightened at the moment of executing the technique.
C). Muscle contraction and relaxation
During the execution of the technique, the grip of both hands should tighten evenly inward, without favoring either side, similar to wringing out a cloth. In Jukendo, the left arm should engage the extensors, and the right arm should engage the flexors.
18. 冴え (Sae) – On Clear Precision
Since Jukendo and Tankendo are competitive martial arts that determine victory or defeat through thrusting and striking, clear and precise techniques, or “sae” (冴え), are necessary. This clear preciseness appears in the technique execution, where the weight of the weapon is accelerated, and the quicker this is done, the more powerfully the strike is expressed. This is referred to as “sae,” meaning swift and tightly controlled technique execution.
No matter how heavy the weapon is or how much force is applied, if the technique is executed slowly, Sae will not be achieved. Sae is something that should be developed through regular practice, involving footwork, the functioning of both arms, handwork, and the readiness of the mind.
19. 気合 (Kiai) – On Spirit Shout
“Kiai” refers to the state of filling the entire body with spirited energy, leaving no room for carelessness or distracting thoughts. Whether silent or vocal, it signifies a condition where one’s whole being is aligned with concentrated spirited energy and mind, giving no openings to the opponent. Simultaneously, it means being ready to execute a technique instantly whenever the opponent shows even the slightest opening. Through years of practice, as the mind and eyes become clear and the spirit, energy, and body become unified, one naturally develops the ability to respond to changes with appropriate techniques and strength.
20. 掛け声／発声 (Kakegoe／Hassei) – On Shouting
“Kakegoe” (shouting) should be a natural vocalization by one’s filled spirit and energy,
rather than something forced from the mouth. It has been shown through muscle contraction experiments that accompanying the release of energy with a shout increases the force exerted. Conversely, inhaling deeply reduces the release of power. There are three types of shouts: initial, during, and after.
* The initial shout to intimidate the opponent.
* During the fight, a low, forceful shout from the abdomen to demonstrate power, and a shout like ‘Yah,’ ‘Ei,’ or ‘Tou’ when striking to enhance muscle contraction.
* A loud, strong shout after winning.
Shouting should boost one’s spirit, enhance the momentum of techniques, intimidate the opponent, and signify victory. Careless shouting should be avoided as it can lead to unnecessary fatigue.
21. 呼吸 (Kokyu) – On Breathing
In Jukendo and Tankendo, it is crucial to gauge the opponent’s breathing. Breathing is extremely important in martial arts training. When a person takes a deep breath, they cannot exert their full strength. Strength comes from muscle contraction, which requires exhaling or holding one’s breath. Shouting (kakegoe) is also a part of breathing, a variation of exhaling, and it creates an oxygen deficit in the body that needs to be replenished by inhaling. To gauge breathing means to recognize the moment during a match when the opponent takes a deep breath to replenish oxygen. Naturally, the opponent will also be gauging your breathing, so it is essential to engage in aerobic training to enhance cardiovascular function. The second Keiko (Dai Ni Keiko) is one method to achieve this.
22. 守破離 (Shu Ha Ri)
1. 守 (Shu)
It is important to faithfully follow the teachings of your master or instructor. This involves diligently practicing the principles and techniques of Jukendo and Tankendo. This meant accurately mastering the fundamentals, characteristics, and philosophy of the school (RyuHa) being learned.
2. 破 (Ha)
After thoroughly understanding and internalizing the teachings of your master or instructor, including the rules and principles, you reach a stage where you develop a strong research-oriented attitude. This leads to new interests that were not apparent at the “Shu” stage, and you begin to delve deeply into the introspective aspects of Tankendo. This stage involves acquiring a level of skill and understanding that surpasses the initial teachings. During this process, learning from other martial arts can enrich your knowledge, symbolizing a breaking of the previous boundaries.
3. 離 (Ri)
This stage represents a further enhancement of the mindset and abilities gained in the “Ha” stage. It signifies a state where the practitioner has perfect control in both mind and body, having mastered the essence of the logic of sword. At this level, creativity arises naturally, leading to the development of new techniques.
★ As stated in the secret teachings of the Itto-ryu school, “Training begins with loosening, is difficult in the middle, and teaches the forging of the spirit in the end.” This gradual development is important not only in martial arts but also in life.
23. 品格 (HinKaku)- Dignity
The ultimate goal of martial arts is the sound development of both mind and body and the completion of one’s character, which is the fundamental principle of training. Jukendo / Tankendo training becomes meaningful when the purpose lies in aiming for a balanced development of mind, technique, and body, which brings forth dignity. Dignity refers to a state of nobility and refined sense of beauty. Just as much of what is true and good is beautiful, in martial arts, there is nothing more dignified than that which is correct and filled with sincerity.
When facing a match, having a dignified and sophisticated attitude, a fearlessness towards strength, a respect for weakness, and an attitude that respects the opponent’s character, all combine to create dignity through sincere combat. Dignity is not something that comes from simply maintaining a good outward appearance or mimicking others. It is also essential to have a straightforward attitude of mind.
To inhibit one’s character, there are elements such as “arrogance,” “rudeness,” and “hypocrisy.”
To maintain character:
– Be upright, strong, and bright.
– Cultivate skills gracefully and with refinement.
– Maintain a sense of fulfillment and tension.
– Contribute to physical development.
– Maintain proper appearance and etiquette.
Those who aspire to practice Jukendo and Tankendo must always keep these in mind, diligently train, and strive to enhance their character as human beings.
24. Terminology Explanation
1. Riai (理合): The principle of aligning with the laws of nature and truth based on the principles of Yin and Yang. (It involves ensuring that the actions taken between oneself and the opponent are rational and logical. )
2. Kigurai (気位): The sense of superiority and confidence derived from a person’s upbringing and environment, and the ability to perceive the opponent’s attacks.
3. Kensaki (剣先): The tip of the short sword and Mokuju. It is essential that it should always be aimed at the opponent’s centerline.
4. Kensuji (剣筋): The direction of the thrust and the direction of force applied by the sword and Mokuju.
5. Hasuji (刃筋): The direction in which the blade makes contact and the direction of force applied.
6. Monouchi-bu (物打ち部): The part of the shinai about one-third from the tip, on the side with the blade.
7. Etoku (会得): Fully understanding the content and knowledge and making it one’s own.
8. Shūtoku (習得): Learning and acquiring knowledge and skills.
9. Shūtoku (修得): Completing a course of study and training (credits).
10. Taitoku (体得): Not only learning from others or books but also understanding the true meaning through personal experience.
11. Shūren (習練): The meaning of practice.
12. Shugyō (修行): Training oneself day and night to master skills and aim for being independent and higher stages.
13. Shugyō (修業): Learning and acquiring a certain level of knowledge and skills.
14. Renma (錬磨): Polishing and honing one’s body, mind, and techniques.
15. Keiko (稽古): Learning techniques by using ancient practices as a model; practicing martial arts and skills.
16. Renshū (練習): Repeating the same thing many times to improve skills and artistic ability.
17. Rensei (錬成): Training the mind and body to become a respectable person.
18.Kurai zeme (位攻め): An attack that overwhelms the opponent with a sense of confidence and the spirit that fills the entire body.