Combat pit official logo black
Back to Glossary
Home
Search
Martial Arts Culture and History
Gear and Equipment
Personalities
Skill Development
Mind and Body Connection
Weapons and Traditional Tools
Martial arts map
Complete blog posts directory
Contact

Kenjutsu

What is Kenjutsu?

Kenjutsu is a traditional Japanese martial art that focuses on the techniques of swordsmanship. The term "Kenjutsu" translates to "the method or technique of the sword." It encompasses a variety of skills and practices related to the use of the Japanese katana or other types of swords. Historically, Kenjutsu was practiced by the samurai class and involved both solo forms (kata) and paired exercises to develop combat proficiency.

Training in Kenjutsu typically includes learning proper stances, strikes, blocks, and parries, as well as the mental discipline and focus required for effective swordsmanship. Many modern martial arts, such as Kendo and Iaido, have their roots in Kenjutsu. While Kendo has evolved into a sport with a focus on competition, Kenjutsu remains more closely tied to its traditional martial roots.

Related Article: Kendo: The Way of the Sword in Japanese Martial Arts

Each of us has his cowardice. Each of us is afraid to lose, afraid to die. But hanging back is the way to remain a coward for life. The Way to find courage is to seek it on the field of conflict. And the sure way to victory is willingness to risk one's own life.
Mas Oyama

Check out the latest blogs

See all articles

Other Glossary terms

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Biomechanics
Biomechanics is the scientific study of the mechanical principles of living organisms, particularly their movement and structure.
B
Kyudo
Kyudo is the Japanese martial art of archery, which translates to "the way of the bow." It is deeply rooted in the traditions of Japanese culture and combines physical, mental, and spiritual elements.
K
Brass Knuckles or Knuckle Dusters
Brass knuckles, also known as knuckle dusters, are handheld weapons designed to fit around the knuckles.
B
Yin and Yang
Yin and Yang are fundamental concepts in Chinese philosophy and culture, representing the idea of dualism and the interconnectedness of opposites.
Y
Zanshin
Zanshin is a fundamental concept in Japanese martial arts, referring to a state of relaxed alertness and total awareness. Practitioners cultivate zanshin to maintain vigilance before, during, and after combat.
Z
Katame-Waza
Katame-Waza refers to the grappling or groundwork techniques in Judo.
K
Muay Thai Jump Rope
Muay Thai jump rope is a form of jump rope exercise specifically tailored for Muay Thai practitioners.
M
Atemi-Waza
Atemi-Waza refers to striking techniques in traditional Japanese martial arts, including Judo, Aikido, and Karate.
A
Sumo
Sumo is a traditional Japanese form of wrestling that has a rich history and cultural significance in Japan.
S
Static Flexibility
Static flexibility refers to the ability to hold a stretch in a stationary position, extending a muscle to its furthest point and maintaining that position for a period of time.
S
Dojo
A Dojo is a term used in Japanese martial arts to refer to a formal training hall or place where practitioners gather to train, study, and practice their martial art.
D
Tai Chi
Tai Chi, also known as Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan), is a traditional Chinese martial art that is practiced both for its defense training and its health benefits.
T
Lohan Hands
Lohan Hands, also known as "Luohan Hands" or "Arhat Hands," is a term associated with a set of exercises or forms in traditional Chinese martial arts and Qigong, particularly within the Shaolin tradition.
L
Shaolin Kung Fu
Shaolin Kung Fu, also known as Shaolin Wushu, is a traditional Chinese martial art that originated from the Shaolin Monastery in Henan Province, China.
S
Aikido
Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art that focuses on harmonizing with an opponent's energy to neutralize the threat without causing serious harm.
A
No Items Found