Gomaru Ryu Bukendo
Definition
Gomaru Ryu Bukendo, translated as Five Circles School of the Way of the Martial
Sword, is a Modal Art based on the Swordsmanship techniques of Tasumaru Ryu
Bujutsu. This Modal Art has many similarities with Modern Kendo, "Pre-War"
Kendo, Shinkendo, as well as many styles of traditional Kenjutsu and is often
referred to as Combat Kendo or simply Bukendo.
The Goal
The concept of swordsmanship in modern times can be somewhat anachronistic.
Many believe that any practical application of the techniques has been lost
to the ages. However, from a purely practical standpoint, sword technique
is easily adapted to a wide variety of blunt weapons, such as a baseball bat,
or broken billiard cue/broom handle and the cutting concepts and edge dynamics
can greatly improve understanding of knife use and defense. However, the primary
benefit from Bukendo training can be found in the mental discipline gained
through a highly structured training environment and adherence to classical
training concepts.
The Method
All students of Bukendo begin training with a wooden sword known as a bokuto
or bokken. Students learn basic etiquette while progressing through a number
of basic technical elements such as footwork and basic cutting motions. Upon
reaching Gokyu (5th class - represented by a green belt) students then chose
to either continue to more advanced bokuto training or switch to armored combat.
Upon reaching Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt) through either armored combat
or bokuto training student then begin the study of Battojutsu elements progression
to Shinken (Sharp Steel) techniques at Sandan.
Bokuto
Training
Students develop strength, stamina and superior physical control through bokuto
training. The bokuto also provides as safer and more cost-effective way to
introduce students to the Japanese Sword and its techniques. The bokuto is
quite effective at enable new students to learn all of the proper motions
necessary for excellent techniques. Student that choose the advanced bokuto
track at Gokyu must also learn extreme discipline of motion as they engage
in non-contact partner practice power cutting simulations.
Armored Combat
The Armored Combat track of Bukendo introduces students to true action/response
dynamics through a variety of sparring and partner exercises. With some similarities
to Modern Kendo and Kumdo, Bukendo is often mistaken for a competitive form.
However, despite that fact that Bukendo practitioners wear armor and train
with a shinai (bamboo training sword) the application of technique is much
closer to a tradition Kenjutsu. This is demonstrated by the inclusion of the
entire body as a valid target, Nito (two-sword) technique, off-hand striking,
gashiratemi (pommel striking), grappling and takedowns. Additionally, a large
portion of armored combat training includes multiple attacker (one vs. two
or more) and unit (two - five vs. same) scenarios.
Battojutsu
Battojutsu is the practice of sword drawing techniques. Typically, batto techniques
involve nukitsuke (quickly drawing the sword from its saya (scabbard) while
cutting with the same motion), furikaburi (bringing the sword around), performing
some form of finishing motion such as Kirioroshi (downward cut), chiburi (clearing
the blood from the blade) and noto (resheathing the sword). Variations can
be as simple as including additional cuts between furikaburi and the finishing
cut, or as complex as the addition of tsukawaza, takedowns and extensive continuations.
Similar Arts called Iaijutsu or Iaido involve very similar technique but focus
on personal growth through the pursuit of the perfection of movement. Battojutsu
approaches technique from the standpoint of practical application and view
personal growth as a valuable side-effect.
Click below for more detailed information about a given Modal Art
Gomaru
Ryu Kenpo
Striking & Trapping
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Ryu Jujutsu
Grappling and Joint Manipulation
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Ryu Kobudo
Weaponry
Gomaru
Ryu Gojukido
Ki Development and Movement Training