Koshin Ryu Kenjutsu

Offered at no additional cost, Koshin Ryu is a unique style of swordsmanship developed by Clarke sensei and is based on combining aikido movement with iaijutsu and kenjutsu methodologies. Koshin is a contradiction. It is a new style developed and practiced in the spirit of the old ways. This means exploring the way of the sword through austere training focused on balancing aesthetics with competency. We seek to understand the way of the Life-Giving Sword through the deliberate and purposeful use of the weapon.

Generally speaking, Koshin Ryu is reserved for students who display the proper character, mindset, and safety focus necessary to properly respect the katana as a weapon. As a result, Koshin Ryu classes demand proper etiquette and strict discipline. 

A large portion of Koshin Ryu focuses on kata. Kata are prescribed movements in response to specific scenarios. Kata can be categorized into standing and sitting, drawing and cutting, or starting with swords already drawn. These kata span the historical context of applications - from taking a stroll, to being ambushed over tea, to marching into battle, to fighting inside structures. 

Shobu roughly translates to dueling. Using fukuro-shinai, students practice drawing, parries, and cuts following both scripted and free-form exercises. This training develops awareness of maai (proper distance), kamae (posture), among other principles. Shobu practice assists in learning the principle of "Ichi-go, Ichi-e" (one time, one outcome).

Tameshigiri is cutting practice, generally using wetted straw mats as targets. Once students have demonstrated the proper respect, competency, and safety using a katana, they may participate in tameshigiri using shinken (live blade).