Rawnshah's Posts - Ryuseiken Battodo2024-03-28T13:30:03Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshahhttp://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3138091043?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1http://battodo.ning.com/profiles/blog/feed?user=rawnshah&xn_auth=noShutting down Battodo.ning.comtag:battodo.ning.com,2023-12-18:1153601:BlogPost:664632023-12-18T20:20:18.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
<p></p>
<p>Friends,</p>
<p>I am looking to shut down this old site that we once was quite active. It's been years since I have posted, and I don't see a need to continue. The last day will probably be this Friday, Dec 22nd, 2023.</p>
<p></p>
<p>-Rawn, sensei</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>Friends,</p>
<p>I am looking to shut down this old site that we once was quite active. It's been years since I have posted, and I don't see a need to continue. The last day will probably be this Friday, Dec 22nd, 2023.</p>
<p></p>
<p>-Rawn, sensei</p>
<p></p>Heheh...tag:battodo.ning.com,2013-09-09:1153601:BlogPost:216512013-09-09T17:12:08.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
<p><a href="http://www.dailyfailcenter.com/sites/default/files/fail/a4dd0f2aec404286d2160886b6161970.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.dailyfailcenter.com/sites/default/files/fail/a4dd0f2aec404286d2160886b6161970.jpg" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.dailyfailcenter.com/sites/default/files/fail/a4dd0f2aec404286d2160886b6161970.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.dailyfailcenter.com/sites/default/files/fail/a4dd0f2aec404286d2160886b6161970.jpg" class="align-full"/></a></p>Spam signupstag:battodo.ning.com,2013-08-18:1153601:BlogPost:211322013-08-18T03:54:23.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
<p>We're getting a lot of spam signups so I changed things a little.</p>
<p></p>
<p>We're getting a lot of spam signups so I changed things a little.</p>
<p></p>The fencer who did the Darth Vader swordfights in Star Wars dies at 89tag:battodo.ning.com,2012-01-03:1153601:BlogPost:181462012-01-03T18:55:19.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
<p></p>
<p>This is sad news that you probably never knew about before. Bob Andersen was the British Olympic contender in 1952 for fencing and either instructed or did the stunts in the first few Star Wars movies, and the Lord of the Rings. </p>
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<div><p><a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2012/01/02/144580276/fencer-who-was-darth-vader-in-famous-light-saber-scenes-has-died?sc=fb&cc=fp" target="_blank">NPR article on Bob Andersen</a></p>
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<p>Even if you didn't know…</p>
</div>
<p></p>
<p>This is sad news that you probably never knew about before. Bob Andersen was the British Olympic contender in 1952 for fencing and either instructed or did the stunts in the first few Star Wars movies, and the Lord of the Rings. </p>
<p></p>
<div><p><a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2012/01/02/144580276/fencer-who-was-darth-vader-in-famous-light-saber-scenes-has-died?sc=fb&cc=fp" target="_blank">NPR article on Bob Andersen</a></p>
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<p>Even if you didn't know him, his swordfighting inspired a great many through the exposure on Star Wars. He inspired many new sword students. While Vader's costume is very much based on a samurai warrior in full <em>yoroi</em> armor with the addition of a black cape, the fighting style was not Japanese. It wasn't until the third movie (Return of the Jedi) did we see more Japanese style fighting. Then we had Ray Park playing Darth Maul in the newer Star Wars prequel that did an awesome job.</p>
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<p>-rawn sensei</p>
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</div>Learn more about the parts of the sword -- NCJSC sitetag:battodo.ning.com,2011-10-25:1153601:BlogPost:163432011-10-25T17:05:32.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
<p>I came across the Northern Carlifornia Japanese Sword club (token kai) formed by the renown author of <em>The Samurai Sword -- A Handbook</em>, Jon Yumoto. I noticed in particular how detailed their <a href="http://www.ncjsc.org/ncjsc_vis_glossary.html" target="_blank">Visual Glossary</a> is. This is a great resource if you want to know more about the different aspects of the sword, its, manufacture, the different types of design of both the blade and the mountings. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>I know…</p>
<p>I came across the Northern Carlifornia Japanese Sword club (token kai) formed by the renown author of <em>The Samurai Sword -- A Handbook</em>, Jon Yumoto. I noticed in particular how detailed their <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncjsc.org/ncjsc_vis_glossary.html">Visual Glossary</a> is. This is a great resource if you want to know more about the different aspects of the sword, its, manufacture, the different types of design of both the blade and the mountings. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>I know there is a lot of detail and, I'll admit, even I don't know all of them but that just gives me more reason to read through it. Take a look and learn a little more about the swords you may use.</p>
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<p> </p>Apologies on being awaytag:battodo.ning.com,2011-10-21:1153601:BlogPost:160422011-10-21T13:34:22.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
<p>I've been awfully busy for quite some time, and I will try to keep adding content more regularly. Apologies to the folks who were interested in becoming members as well. I get so many spam members its hard to tell sometimes, which is why I put in the approval process.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>-Rawn sensei</p>
<p>I've been awfully busy for quite some time, and I will try to keep adding content more regularly. Apologies to the folks who were interested in becoming members as well. I get so many spam members its hard to tell sometimes, which is why I put in the approval process.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>-Rawn sensei</p>The new goshinkentag:battodo.ning.com,2011-04-19:1153601:BlogPost:123142011-04-19T19:06:31.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
<p> </p>
<p>So far this new type of goshinken has held up pretty well. It's only been a month of use but so far nothing immediate.</p>
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<p>We've tried it among the senseis and brown belts and it certainly held up. The entire class has used it (swapping it between people) for sparring and kata practice. They're getting used to others using it on them.</p>
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<p><strong>Wear and Tear</strong></p>
<p>The grip is holding. Even with very hard smacks the is no paint chipping, cracks,…</p>
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<p>So far this new type of goshinken has held up pretty well. It's only been a month of use but so far nothing immediate.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We've tried it among the senseis and brown belts and it certainly held up. The entire class has used it (swapping it between people) for sparring and kata practice. They're getting used to others using it on them.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Wear and Tear</strong></p>
<p>The grip is holding. Even with very hard smacks the is no paint chipping, cracks, tears, breaks, permanent kinks or bends. When you swing, you can see the goshinken bend with the acceleration but this is nothing really.</p>
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<p>I've whacked it hard against a table top and nothing.</p>
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<p>I have not tried it against a rough surface like a rough concrete or masonry pillar or wall. I think it might scratch or tear the material.</p>
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<p>There is no obvious break point at the tip like the older ones have.</p>
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<p><strong>Pain level?</strong></p>
<p>A soft hit creates more impact than the old goshinken because the force gets focused along the edge.</p>
<p>A hard hit (by me or sensei Andrew on ourselves) hurts and lasts for a minute but there's no bruising (immediate or delyaed).</p>
<p>Multiple hits onto the same spot do hurt because you haven't recovered from the sting yet.</p>
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<p>This kind of pain is hard to tell but they are definitely more painful than the old ones.</p>
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<p><strong>Cost</strong></p>
<p>It is still expensive at $95 (after shipping is included) but I think this will last much, much longer so its worth it in the end.</p>
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<p>At this point, I'd say it is safe to buy and use for the class. I'll see about getting it as a standard item at the Kodenkan of Tucson, so people can order it easily. (keep in mind its free shipping when you get it from KoT saves you $8 at least)</p>
<p> </p>Planning to try out a new goshinkentag:battodo.ning.com,2011-02-24:1153601:BlogPost:105422011-02-24T15:36:06.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
<p> </p>
<p>Now that I need a new goshinken, having run out of them, I'm going to order one of the 3rd generation type goshinkens. I'm trying them out to see how well they work, before anyone else spends their money on it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img alt="Latex, Foam Sword - Samurai" height="287" src="http://www.strongblade.com/prod/prodimages/sbpt-samurai1_m.jpg" width="206"></img></p>
<p>These are the almost visually realistic looking foam swords created by the SCA types (the Renaissance renactment folk) and LARPers (Live Action Role Playing). There's quite an industry growing around these incidentally, judging by the…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Now that I need a new goshinken, having run out of them, I'm going to order one of the 3rd generation type goshinkens. I'm trying them out to see how well they work, before anyone else spends their money on it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="http://www.strongblade.com/prod/prodimages/sbpt-samurai1_m.jpg" alt="Latex, Foam Sword - Samurai" height="287" width="206"/></p>
<p>These are the almost visually realistic looking foam swords created by the SCA types (the Renaissance renactment folk) and LARPers (Live Action Role Playing). There's quite an industry growing around these incidentally, judging by the substantial variety of weapons. The picture below is just one of three katana types from <a href="http://www.strongblade.com/nav/latexswords.html" target="_blank">Strongblade</a>. Their site seems to show in the "<a href="http://www.strongblade.com/nav/LARP.html" target="_blank">LARP and Foam weapons</a>" section: swords, daggers, armor, missiles, axes, arrows, spears, quarterstaves, even what seems like a 4- or 5-foot long bardiche.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>1st gens are essentially what people built at home: thick round foam straight weapons, solid pvc core, hard plastic tsubas, and little in the manner of flexibility. They were generally really hard because of the pvc was too thick and the padding wasn't enough. We fought with these almost ten years ago. Shihan still has a pair of them -- they really last.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>2nd gens are what we use now: professionally made, but more importantly more flexible inner cores, soft foam tsubas. However, they don't seem to last longer than a year with frequent use.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>These 3rd gen swords use a different type of foam, and rather than a hollow pipe, have a small but solid core. The foam itself is pressed into shape rather than cut. The denser foam with what can best be call foam 'memory' will bend on impact but return to its shape shortly. The impact of these -- based on hitting myself on the arm with them -- is as hard as the 1st gens.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Shape:</strong></p>
<p>The shape is closer to having an edged weapon versus the 1st and 2nd gens which were essentially round bats. With these we will know better if students are doing their swings properly because both they and we can just see it. The material can also be colored and when seen from a distance they can be mistaken for real ones. The shaped foam also works so well they can replicate the shape of many weapons, although not perfectly. Like the earlier ones, the 'katana' ones are entirely straight, not curved like a katana normaly is--just see the picture above.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Impact:</strong></p>
<p>Testing out the fantasy sword ones I've seen at the Ren fair and at toy stores, hitting an arm on this can hurt, especially for folks not used to taking a hit. A strong hit will likely leave a dark bruise for days at least. For the high school class, I don't think this would be a good idea--parents would be angry if their kids came home all bruised. We might even have to start wearing gloves since hits to small bones like the fingers might hurt. Since we haven't really tested them out seriously, it is hard to tell</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Price:</strong></p>
<p>The first ones like the ones on <a href="http://www.latex-weaponry.com/calimacil.html" target="_blank">Knighthawk Armory</a> were $160-$200. The newer ones I've seen on Strongblade are <a href="http://www.strongblade.com/prod/sbcl-swd-mantis.html" target="_blank">$167</a>, <a href="http://www.strongblade.com/prod/sbpt-swd-samurai.html" target="_blank">$87</a> and <a href="http://www.strongblade.com/prod/sbif-katana.html" target="_blank">$67</a>. The top price one I believe is the same one from Knighthawk. I can't tell the difference yet, but the description for the $87 one seems to have a better core and padding. There is a $55 one called the leopard but it is just a little too odd and may not be a good fighting weapon. Keep in mind most of these ones are for show not use.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I'm going to buy that $87 one and try it out. <strong><br/></strong></p>
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<p> </p>May need to transfer to Facebook / Ning is planning to start charging for our sitetag:battodo.ning.com,2010-05-09:1153601:BlogPost:82532010-05-09T07:04:49.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
Ning is planning to start charging for this site. Till now it's been free but I'll have to consider it. The very basic one has too few features but enough to put our photos. The video space is limited. <br/><br/>On the other hand Facebook technically owns any picture you put on it which I don't like either. <br/><br/>Any ideas folks?<br/><br/>
Ning is planning to start charging for this site. Till now it's been free but I'll have to consider it. The very basic one has too few features but enough to put our photos. The video space is limited. <br/><br/>On the other hand Facebook technically owns any picture you put on it which I don't like either. <br/><br/>Any ideas folks?<br/><br/>Sorry for not getting that Spam earliertag:battodo.ning.com,2010-02-18:1153601:BlogPost:79892010-02-18T21:22:57.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
A bunch of spambots /users joined and I deleted their "online prescription" stuff. Sorry about that. <br/><br/>-rawn<br/><br/>
A bunch of spambots /users joined and I deleted their "online prescription" stuff. Sorry about that. <br/><br/>-rawn<br/><br/>Taisabaki 3 & 4 : hmmm?tag:battodo.ning.com,2009-12-03:1153601:BlogPost:76482009-12-03T19:59:05.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
I came across a potential mismatch between theory and practice in Taisabaki 3 and 4 last weekend and took some photographs to figure it out.<br />
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The basic point is that Taisabaki #3 (hidari) is a shift to the left, so that you are offside to the opponent but still within the same range (<i>maai</i>). Taisabaki #4 (migi) is a shift to the right to achieve the same <b>but</b> may not put you within the same range.<br />
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Here is Taisabaki #3, with a drawing of foot positions before and after. Notice that…
I came across a potential mismatch between theory and practice in Taisabaki 3 and 4 last weekend and took some photographs to figure it out.<br />
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The basic point is that Taisabaki #3 (hidari) is a shift to the left, so that you are offside to the opponent but still within the same range (<i>maai</i>). Taisabaki #4 (migi) is a shift to the right to achieve the same <b>but</b> may not put you within the same range.<br />
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Here is Taisabaki #3, with a drawing of foot positions before and after. Notice that the bokken tip is still within same range as when I start.<br />
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<p style="text-align: left;"><img width="600" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3149074695?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" alt="" width="600" height="550"/></p>
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<br />
Here' is Taisabaki #4 if we follow theory directly which is to move directly to the right. Directly here means that your big toe on the front foot stays along the same horizontal plane, over to the right.<br />
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<p style="text-align: left;"><img width="600" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3149074764?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" alt="" width="600" height="550"/></p>
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However, notice that the tip is now 3-4 inches <b>away</b> from the opponent, indicating that your body has actually moved away from them.<br />
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To be in the same range and actually move to the right, what I needed was to move to the right and forward a little bit, as so:<br />
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<p style="text-align: left;"><img width="600" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3149074748?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" alt="" width="600" height="550"/></p>
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Here the tip stays within the same range as before.<br />
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This happens because with one foot forward, you body is actually a little further behind. When you move left (w/ right foot forward), your body turns and moves a little forward, but when you move right, your body turns away from the opponent a little.<br />
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The commonality between the first and third image is that your chushin / hara is actually at the same distance from the opponent. That's what keeps the range / maai constant.<br />
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This is still not the same as tai-sabaki #6 which is even further forward than #4.Kyu testing at CFHStag:battodo.ning.com,2009-12-02:1153601:BlogPost:76422009-12-02T20:15:57.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
I tested 9 students yesterday for their Kyu ranks, most of them rokkyus, a few in the middle and two brown belts. The brown belts still have to demonstrate their cutting on Sunday the 13th to complete their test.<br />
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It took a good hour or so to do the testing but it seemed to go pretty quickly for me. It seems to take forever of waiting and then take a long time to do your own test, but in reality time passes pretty quickly. There's also the nervousness factor. It makes you forget what you…
I tested 9 students yesterday for their Kyu ranks, most of them rokkyus, a few in the middle and two brown belts. The brown belts still have to demonstrate their cutting on Sunday the 13th to complete their test.<br />
<br />
It took a good hour or so to do the testing but it seemed to go pretty quickly for me. It seems to take forever of waiting and then take a long time to do your own test, but in reality time passes pretty quickly. There's also the nervousness factor. It makes you forget what you already know. I was pretty generous and allowed people to start back from the beginning when they forgot something. I can tell when someone forgot something because they were nervous versus when they truly did not know.<br />
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Call it nervousness, performance anxiety, or stage fright, its the same thing: performing under pressure. Tests can be stressful, but the real evidence appears if you can perform the techniques during combat. From the martial perspective, that is what demonstrates if someone really knows what they are doing.<br />
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In a way, that also explains why our katas are relatively simple and focused on practical techniques that you will remember during combat, rather than a complex set of actions involving dozens of steps. The additional fact is that swordfighting tends to be much more immediate. A properly executed cut is typically lethal. You simply don't need to keep attacking the target over and over again.<br />
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The more complex cuts tend to anticipate block and counterattacks, or aim to test other factors like accuracy, speed, cutting range, dynamic reaction, multiple opponents, etc. The best cut is still just a single cut executed in perfect form.Cutting a moving targettag:battodo.ning.com,2009-11-16:1153601:BlogPost:74432009-11-16T16:20:34.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
For advanced cutters, such as those who have been shodan for a while in our class, I think a standing target is becoming too easy. Yes, there are certainly still many possible cuts that you and I can't do yet on a target that is in a fixed location. But there is a whole domain of cutting that requires a different set of skills that we don't practice as often.<br />
<br />
If you've been to our cutting sessions, you may notice at the end of class, we sometimes toss the last small cutable pieces at the…
For advanced cutters, such as those who have been shodan for a while in our class, I think a standing target is becoming too easy. Yes, there are certainly still many possible cuts that you and I can't do yet on a target that is in a fixed location. But there is a whole domain of cutting that requires a different set of skills that we don't practice as often.<br />
<br />
If you've been to our cutting sessions, you may notice at the end of class, we sometimes toss the last small cutable pieces at the student to try to cut out of the air. This changes the dynamics of cutting quite a bit, since you need to keep much more in mind:<br />
<br />
- the direction it is going forwards (right at you, to one side or the other)<br />
- the speed at which it is moving<br />
- the height it will be at when it is in cutting distance<br />
- how your body is positioned to swing<br />
- what kind of cut you will do<br />
- sometimes even the orientation of the target (e.g. a cylindrical goza piece)<br />
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And all this within the second or two it takes for the target to fly at you.<br />
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The point isn't that you'll have targets flying at you, but that the target is moving in three dimensions and you need to adjust yourself to react to them. This reaction often shows how well a student can keep their form in such variable situations. Sometimes they overreach forward and become unbalance; other times they try to bend their arms to cut too close to their body when they should move out of position; and still others their swing and body positions move out of balance.<br />
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This becomes a test of knowing how to keep proper form, and body position. It's something each person can only learn from trial and error because by hand lobbing these targets, each targets path is not so predictable. Since you can't necessarily predetermine what path the target will take every time, what you can fix into place is what you are going to do and work from there.<br />
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The first option is to start at the top of the swing, rather than in kamae, ready to cut. So "top" is relative; for Kesa, it is above your head; for kiriage, it is below and to the side; for suihei, it is to one side horizontally. But essentially, your arms are spring loaded to cut <b>if</b> you can reach the target. Of the three I think kiriage it easiest, since you are moving you to the target and have more time to adjust. Kesa is harder because there is less time from the top-of-swing to adjust to the position of the target. Suihei is hardest because unlike the other two which can flow in line with the fall of the target, the swing is almost perpendicular to the target.<br />
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The second option is to start in, most likely, seigan kamae. Then move to a cutting position to get the target. You have to decide what is the best cut for that try as the target comes at you, so it may add a split second decision step.<br />
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The third option is that the targets are lobbed not at you but to somewhere near you. It can be anywhere 360 around you. This requires you to shift from your current spot to a proper position, adding even more delay to the cut.<br />
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The next cutting day, we can give these a try. Plus its fun too11/8/09 Cutting: How it wenttag:battodo.ning.com,2009-11-08:1153601:BlogPost:73012009-11-08T20:50:41.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
It seemed like a long day (9am-1pm+) for cutting so I may not have all the details. Everyone certainly did better today. I think most people did quite good if not phenomenal today. I did record high speed videos but I never seem to find the time to edit and post them.<br />
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The best I saw today was Alex who is a yonkyu but was able to do a full (and nice) kihon-toho on a half goza. That's usually a nikkyu level cut. Charlie injured his palms and wasn't able to cut before they started bleeding so we…
It seemed like a long day (9am-1pm+) for cutting so I may not have all the details. Everyone certainly did better today. I think most people did quite good if not phenomenal today. I did record high speed videos but I never seem to find the time to edit and post them.<br />
<br />
The best I saw today was Alex who is a yonkyu but was able to do a full (and nice) kihon-toho on a half goza. That's usually a nikkyu level cut. Charlie injured his palms and wasn't able to cut before they started bleeding so we had to call it off.<br />
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Sempais Andrew and Steve also did fairly well and I think are ready for their next test. They did try some harder cuts than necessary for the test, for which I advise, try what you know you can do at that test level, rather than try something difficult.<br />
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Jamie did well for kesa and kiriage, and adjusted his suihei a little more. Its looking much flatter now.<br />
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Sylvia tried a whole goza for the first time and got nice kesa and kiriage on the target. The suihei needs work simply in the area of not pulling out into zanshin too soon. It's a common error that doesn't become apparent until you actually cut.<br />
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I tried two goza, then three goza twice today. The two were spaced like three and wasn't too hard. Both my three goza attempts were good, but didn't quite make it. On the first try, I cut through only 80% of the last goza piece before I ran out of sword. On the second try, I cut the kiriage too low and when I came back for the suihei, simply ran out of target to cut (so I cut suihei on two out of three goza).<br />
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We tried a few new things with the scraps at the end of class. Katate cuts with left hand. I tried Andrew Sempais heavy sword out--3.5lbs doesn't seem much but it's about 20-30% heavier than mine I think and the tsuka is much longer which made a big difference for me. I'm just too used to my own sword.Cutting last weektag:battodo.ning.com,2009-10-28:1153601:BlogPost:72632009-10-28T15:58:07.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
It might have just been an off-day for folks but from what I saw last weekend, all the candidates for the next black belt level, myself included, do not seem ready for their next test. As cutting criteria again, you need to be proficient in those cuts, which to me means you should be able to do it not just once or twice but pretty much on command 60-90% of the time.<br />
<br />
You should not have to think through the cuts but you can certainly do it at a careful pace (slow in between cuts). The worst is…
It might have just been an off-day for folks but from what I saw last weekend, all the candidates for the next black belt level, myself included, do not seem ready for their next test. As cutting criteria again, you need to be proficient in those cuts, which to me means you should be able to do it not just once or twice but pretty much on command 60-90% of the time.<br />
<br />
You should not have to think through the cuts but you can certainly do it at a careful pace (slow in between cuts). The worst is when you try to cut while thinking about your next cut. This is what causes mistakes for most students: in thinking of the next cut, you move too quickly into position, while your current cut is in flight. It ends up with goza off the stand, shakkuri, or other errors.<br />
<br />
The other part is performing under stress. A busy environment like the park last week is distracting, but a test situation makes it even more stressful. It lowers your ability to some degree.<br />
<br />
So far, I don't have that for 3-goza cuts (at least on the kesa giri part). Based on Saturday, it doesn't look like people have that for some of their patterns. So I'd say practice on air many, many times, with speed and power, before you try it again.<br />
<br />
With 1 goza that is quite doable. Most times, I don't even feel the impact of hitting a single goza anymore. Unfortunately the "hardness" (not difficulty) of multiple goza is not something you can mentally replicate easily. For multiple goza, the only real way is to just do it on real targets over and again.<br />
<br />
-rawnSharpeningtag:battodo.ning.com,2009-10-14:1153601:BlogPost:71862009-10-14T16:20:29.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
I purchased some sharpening stones from Nihonzashi to try out. They have a fairly large selection of stones from 100 to 8000 grit. This is based on the Japanese grit system, and all the stones are from Japan I believe. I only purchased a 1000/6000 combo stone, and a 3000 grit one, which are better for maintenance not hard core repair. The Japanese grit system is not the same as the US one (quite different actually). There is a conversion chart that I saw somewhere but you will need to be…
I purchased some sharpening stones from Nihonzashi to try out. They have a fairly large selection of stones from 100 to 8000 grit. This is based on the Japanese grit system, and all the stones are from Japan I believe. I only purchased a 1000/6000 combo stone, and a 3000 grit one, which are better for maintenance not hard core repair. The Japanese grit system is not the same as the US one (quite different actually). There is a conversion chart that I saw somewhere but you will need to be careful when selecting them. I tried them out on the class sword (Practical XL Light).<br />
<br />
Just some basics: Do NOT try to sharpen your sword if you have never done it before, especially if it is an expensive or old one. I'm okay with trying it out on our $300 class sword which is pretty scratched up as it is. The following is also <b>NOT to be used as self-guided instruction</b>. You will still need your sensei or a properly trained person to instruct you.<br />
<br />
To prepare the area:<br />
The sharpening stones I have are about 8 inches long and 2 inches thick. You basically place it in a stone holder (basically adds a frame with rubber feet) and place it on a table height (if sitting), and you'd slide the blade over it. Other stones, not these ones, are smaller finger sized where you keep the blade in place and rub the stone on them. Make sure that you have room to maneuver the full sword all around meaning you need at least 3 feet radius all around you. Best if you face your back to the wall so no one comes up behind you (safety fact). I did mine sitting on a chair, but you can do it standing too. Traditionally, it would sitting on the floor but that just hurts my back after a few hours.<br />
<br />
To prepare the stones:<br />
These are wet or water stones. Basically, each needs to be soaked in water for 15 minutes and kept wet while sharpening. A little baking soda helps to balance the water so that the sword does not get rust stains. It will get salt stains but those was off easily.<br />
<br />
To prepare your sword:<br />
If you know how (and you should), carefully remove the mekugi and then the tsuka and all the fittings until you have the naked blade itself. You'll need one or two dish towels to <b>tightly</b> wrap around the blade; it's important that it is tight, because the blade cuts most when it slides on an object. Even the nakago (tang inside the handle) can be sharp even when not blade-sharp, so keep that wrapped. Wipe off all the oil on the blade with a cloth, until generally dry.<br />
<br />
The sharpening process is generally a slow painstaking task that has to be repeated at constant speed and pressure. I typically rub each side of the sword on stroke up and then down, and repeat that 100 times. Then I flip over to the other side and do the same. This has to be repeated for each of the stones. Basically, you'd start with the lower number grits (the coarser ones), sharpen both sides 100 times each, and then move to the next higher stone, repeat, and so on. Each stroke takes me about 4 - 6 seconds (which is slow when you actually measure it out).<br />
<br />
So:<br />
100 strokes x 2 sides x 3 stones = 600 strokes. x 5 secs = 50 mins + some breaks switching stones = 1hr 15mins.<br />
<br />
The speed and the pressure is particularly important. First of all you don't want to press hard. It's not about rough pressure and scraping the surface. This is hard to describe even in person, which is why this takes so much skill (even way beyond mine) to do professionally. I hold the sword wrapped around the nakago (tang), and use the fingers of the other hand near the monouchi (cutting section) of the sword to press down. The sword itself is not a flat object and you need to hold it at a very slight angle to sharpen to the edge; otherwise you're just polishing the side and not sharpening at all. Throughout the entire process, you will need to periodically re-wet the stones by sprinkling water (with baking soda), sometimes wiping the dirt of the sword with another cloth.<br />
<br />
Finally, cleaning, and putting together the sword:<br />
The sword will have salt and dirt on it so you need to wash it off. You can use the baking soda-water preferrably, or run under a faucet, or soapy water. Quickly wipe dry immediately after. You want to quickly inspect it. Do not rub your finger along the edge, but you can test it by running 90 degrees across the edge (scraping your finger tip essentially). This is still dangerous so do not put pressure, and keep the blade on a table top. Wipe the sides with Choji oil as soon as you can.<br />
<br />
Once you're ready, put the fittings back on the sword in the same order they came out in. Otherwise they will not fit right. Put the handle back on. Now the trick is to get it fitted tightly. The traditional way is to hold the sword completely vertical in a hammer grip, then use the palm of your other hand and tap the bottom of the sword several dozen times. This moves the tang deeper into the handle itself. Your palm will likely hurt. The way I use isn't good if you have expensive fittings: I use a rubber coated mallet to tap the bottom rather than my hand. It's the same effect, but start with soft taps and increase pressure only if nothing is moving. When fitted properly, there should be no gaps or rattling of the fittings. When its in there tightly, you will need to use your tiny sword hammer to tap the mekugi back in place. The mekugi needs to go all the way back in (not sticking up at all).<br />
<br />
Inspect the sword again, and again wipe some choji oil on both sides before you put it away.<br />
<br />
It may take about 5-15 minutes to take apart your sword, and another 15-20 to put it together. So all in all, this will take you at least 2hrs to 2hrs 30 mins.<br />
<br />
It's a complicated process that you really have to see for yourself but worth it. We tried cutting with the class sword yesterday and for me it is finally coming up to par as an okay cutting sword.Next cutting day: Sat 10/24tag:battodo.ning.com,2009-10-05:1153601:BlogPost:71412009-10-05T23:44:53.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
I'm considering another cutting day on Sat the 24th starting around 9am at Himmel park. It usually goes on till noon. I need responses from people on who can attend and how much goza you need.<br />
<br />
We have goza again. As before goza is $6 for a full piece/ $3 for half piece. I plan to cut about 9 goza myself and may have students from the high school class too, so I simply can't soak it all and bring it all in my car. (one plastic tub only fits about 16 before it breaks). For Andrew C and Andrew D,…
I'm considering another cutting day on Sat the 24th starting around 9am at Himmel park. It usually goes on till noon. I need responses from people on who can attend and how much goza you need.<br />
<br />
We have goza again. As before goza is $6 for a full piece/ $3 for half piece. I plan to cut about 9 goza myself and may have students from the high school class too, so I simply can't soak it all and bring it all in my car. (one plastic tub only fits about 16 before it breaks). For Andrew C and Andrew D, I will bring your half-boxes of goza (some soaked, some not); just let me know how many you want to cut. What'd be even better is if you pick up your goza before that and soak it yourselves. Steve, let me know if you need some. For others, please contact your sensei (Bianca, Monica or Dusty) for goza.<br />
<br />
<b>Black belt candidates</b> (shodan or nidan): Deadline to apply for the test is Nov 22nd. You will need to let me know before that time if you plan to test. Keep in mind fees for both Ryuseiken and the Kodenkan for the dual certificates--ask if you don't know how much, I don't publish that info.Peg/stake sharpener and new pegstag:battodo.ning.com,2009-10-04:1153601:BlogPost:71222009-10-04T16:04:11.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
I have the new Peg sharpener in and have been making some pegs. Basically, it's cheaper in the long run than buying pre-made pegs for our cutting stand. I went out to Home Depot, got four 1" dowels and had them cut down to size, so now we have 16 possible pegs.<br />
<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img alt="" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3149074658?profile=original"></img></p>
<br />
It works like a big pencil sharpener essentially. Blank peg goes in one end and you turn while it planes away the edge. It took me about 15 minutes to do one peg and made my forearms pretty…
I have the new Peg sharpener in and have been making some pegs. Basically, it's cheaper in the long run than buying pre-made pegs for our cutting stand. I went out to Home Depot, got four 1" dowels and had them cut down to size, so now we have 16 possible pegs.<br />
<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3149074658?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br />
It works like a big pencil sharpener essentially. Blank peg goes in one end and you turn while it planes away the edge. It took me about 15 minutes to do one peg and made my forearms pretty tired. It's an interesting exercise for your arms I think.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I still have a bunch of more blanks to do, but that will be my students' job. Every person who has cut into a peg will certainly get to make a new one of their own, as penance.<br />
<br />
I think the cost works out the same as buying new pre-made pegs cut to size from Woodall's workshop, but it allows us to make ones on the spot rather than waiting for shipping.Myth: That "Zing!" sound when you drawtag:battodo.ning.com,2009-09-26:1153601:BlogPost:71022009-09-26T15:30:00.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
Another myth from many movies: Swords should make "Zing!" sound when you draw them from the sheath.<br />
<br />
Perhaps for other swords, but this is generally a bad idea for Japanese swords.<br />
<br />
First, most, perhaps all, sayas are made from wood (or wood on the inside). Some have metal or horn fittings at the <i>koiguchi</i> (the opening entry point for the sword), but that is mostly or entirely on the outside. So there is not really any other metal on the inside to make that metallic ringing/zing noise.…
Another myth from many movies: Swords should make "Zing!" sound when you draw them from the sheath.<br />
<br />
Perhaps for other swords, but this is generally a bad idea for Japanese swords.<br />
<br />
First, most, perhaps all, sayas are made from wood (or wood on the inside). Some have metal or horn fittings at the <i>koiguchi</i> (the opening entry point for the sword), but that is mostly or entirely on the outside. So there is not really any other metal on the inside to make that metallic ringing/zing noise. What you do get often is the sound of hollow wood (the saya) being knocked. So you may hear wood-knocking noises.<br />
<br />
Second, metal scraping on metal is a bad idea, especially when drawing a sword because it isn't something that is finely controlled. It tends to scrape rather than polish. See the earlier post on sharpening stones inside a saya.<br />
<br />
Finally, if your sword made that noise every time, it's a bad design since it would also give away your position (when in stealth).<br />
<br />
If you saw The Last Samurai, where people were drawing their katanas with a heavy zing noise, that's special effects, not reality. The wood knocking noise isn't as "cool" for movies to (I daresay ignorant) directors, sound guys, and special effects/props people. It doesn't happenMyth: sharpening stone inside the sayatag:battodo.ning.com,2009-09-24:1153601:BlogPost:71012009-09-24T15:08:58.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
I was asked about this the other day:<br />
<br />
I do not have a definitive answer to this but I think it highly unlikely that people would <b>line the inside of their <i>saya</i> (sheath) to let them sharpen the sword every time they draw it</b>. It's one of those movie ideas: cool in theory, terrible in practice.<br />
<br />
Sharpening a sword is not a something you can just run once quickly across the <i>nagasa</i> (length of the open blade) to get any significant benefit.<br />
<br />
Here's what you'd need:<br />
- Sayas are…
I was asked about this the other day:<br />
<br />
I do not have a definitive answer to this but I think it highly unlikely that people would <b>line the inside of their <i>saya</i> (sheath) to let them sharpen the sword every time they draw it</b>. It's one of those movie ideas: cool in theory, terrible in practice.<br />
<br />
Sharpening a sword is not a something you can just run once quickly across the <i>nagasa</i> (length of the open blade) to get any significant benefit.<br />
<br />
Here's what you'd need:<br />
- Sayas are not tightly form fitted. There is always some room needed to slide the sword in more easily, even if a few milimeters apart. If they were tightly fitted, then you'd likely slice up the inside of the saya every time you <i>nukito</i>. However, when sharpening, the stone has to be rubbed against the blade at uniform pressure and evenly.<br />
<br />
- You need to use different types of sharpening stones to get a good sharpening. Each stone works on fixing a different degree (based on the grit). A sword in combat takes different levels of damage (big chips, little scratches). It doesn't help to uniformly sharpen the full edge with one stone until you've worked out the big ones first, then progressively worked down with different stones to the smaller chips.<br />
<br />
- Sharpening stones almost all work only when wet (soak minimum of 15 minutes), but you do not want a wet stone sitting against a sword most of the time (causes corrosion) inside a sheath.<br />
<br />
<br />
Essentially, having a sharpening stone inside the sheath will either be ineffective or actually damaging to the blade. Unless someone can explain how it could be done, let's dispense with that myth right now.New camera and practicetag:battodo.ning.com,2009-09-14:1153601:BlogPost:70672009-09-14T17:32:51.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
As you can see from the recent videos, I've been testing out the new high-speed Casio EX-FH20 camera to record some of the activity. It takes high-speed video at 210 frames per second. This really is helpful for cutting to see what we've done.<br />
<br />
One problem however is that the files are huge, and on this site each video can only be 100MB maximum, although we can have as many of them as we wish. Even a minute of highspeed film is 60MB. From Saturday's cutting session, I have an hour or so of…
As you can see from the recent videos, I've been testing out the new high-speed Casio EX-FH20 camera to record some of the activity. It takes high-speed video at 210 frames per second. This really is helpful for cutting to see what we've done.<br />
<br />
One problem however is that the files are huge, and on this site each video can only be 100MB maximum, although we can have as many of them as we wish. Even a minute of highspeed film is 60MB. From Saturday's cutting session, I have an hour or so of video which is 9GB. I have to edit each one down to the snippets we can use and fit into the 100MB limit.<br />
<br />
So I'm spending some time to edit and upload the cutting videos in between having a new baby and family in town. In the meantime, enjoy the highspeed video I took at the Kodenkan class.<br />
<br />
-rawnBattodo at UofA starting againtag:battodo.ning.com,2009-08-28:1153601:BlogPost:69632009-08-28T20:48:56.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
Posting for senseis Monica and Bianca for the U of Arizona club:<br />
<br />
Hey Club Members and Potential Club Members (aka the most awesomemest people in<br />
the world)!<br />
<br />
The first Batto-do practice will be held next Friday, Sept. 4th from 6-7:30<br />
pm. We will meet in the Rec Center at the corner of Highland and 6th at the top<br />
of the stairs. Just look for a bunch of people carrying wooden swords - we're<br />
hard to miss.<br />
For those who will be attending for the first time, just come wearing<br />
comfortable clothing,…
Posting for senseis Monica and Bianca for the U of Arizona club:<br />
<br />
Hey Club Members and Potential Club Members (aka the most awesomemest people in<br />
the world)!<br />
<br />
The first Batto-do practice will be held next Friday, Sept. 4th from 6-7:30<br />
pm. We will meet in the Rec Center at the corner of Highland and 6th at the top<br />
of the stairs. Just look for a bunch of people carrying wooden swords - we're<br />
hard to miss.<br />
For those who will be attending for the first time, just come wearing<br />
comfortable clothing, preferably not long sleeves. We'll be providing the<br />
equipment.<br />
<br />
See you all soon!<br />
<br />
-Senseis Bianca and MonicaGloves and gozatag:battodo.ning.com,2009-08-14:1153601:BlogPost:69212009-08-14T21:14:34.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
I got both a new pair of light combat gloves and new targets on the same day. The gloves are from Revival.us, a chivalry sports store with lots of equipment for Ren-Fair types. The gloves are light, kevlar reinforced with a hard shell over the knuckles, and padding for every finger. However, even the large size for me seems to be a little small for my hand. It fits mostly well and protects the wrist and forearms as well, but covers about 95% of my palm, making it a little annoying when it…
I got both a new pair of light combat gloves and new targets on the same day. The gloves are from Revival.us, a chivalry sports store with lots of equipment for Ren-Fair types. The gloves are light, kevlar reinforced with a hard shell over the knuckles, and padding for every finger. However, even the large size for me seems to be a little small for my hand. It fits mostly well and protects the wrist and forearms as well, but covers about 95% of my palm, making it a little annoying when it chafes against the wrist. Still, it's leather and it'll stretch a little.<br />
I can't wait for a sparring match to try it out. Still to order are the headgear and perhaps the light body armor.<br />
<br />
The goza from Nihonzashi is also here and it looks in good order, although the box got a little crumpled. We'll have to set up a cutting day and chop em up.<br />
<br />
-rawnOrdered some goza from Nihonzashi, Cutting again some weekend soontag:battodo.ning.com,2009-08-06:1153601:BlogPost:68612009-08-06T22:34:02.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
I've put in an order for one box of goza from Nihonzashi in Florida which should arrive next week. I think it's time for some cutting again soon, perhaps on the Sat 15th or Sun 16th. I wanted to test the quality of their goza first before ordering too much. The cost has also gone up a buck per target since it's more expensive to have it shipped from FL to here.<br />
<br />
Let me know who can come.<br />
<br />
-rawn
I've put in an order for one box of goza from Nihonzashi in Florida which should arrive next week. I think it's time for some cutting again soon, perhaps on the Sat 15th or Sun 16th. I wanted to test the quality of their goza first before ordering too much. The cost has also gone up a buck per target since it's more expensive to have it shipped from FL to here.<br />
<br />
Let me know who can come.<br />
<br />
-rawnKatana/shinken selection guidetag:battodo.ning.com,2009-08-05:1153601:BlogPost:68412009-08-05T16:13:32.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
The folks at Nihonzashi have a fairly detailed set of information about the material and dimensions of the swords they carry. It's much more information than may be helpful to the beginner but still helpful.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.nihonzashi.com/shinken_selection_guide.aspx" target="_blank">http://www.nihonzashi.com/shinken_selection_guide.aspx</a><br />
<br />
-rawn
The folks at Nihonzashi have a fairly detailed set of information about the material and dimensions of the swords they carry. It's much more information than may be helpful to the beginner but still helpful.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.nihonzashi.com/shinken_selection_guide.aspx" target="_blank">http://www.nihonzashi.com/shinken_selection_guide.aspx</a><br />
<br />
-rawnNew Shodan and Nidantag:battodo.ning.com,2009-07-21:1153601:BlogPost:68222009-07-21T15:36:53.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
The promotion ceremonies on Sunday went well. Reed was the only shodan candidate but there were a number of higher rank promotions as well. I'll try to post photos once I get them off my phone.<br />
<br />
Congratulations to:<br />
<br />
Reed Wittman - as our newest Shodan<br />
Dusty Alexander - promoted to Nidan and awarded the title of sensei<br />
<br />
There were a number of other dan promotions in the other martial arts styles (Kodenkan teaches a wide range of martial arts).<br />
<br />
This will bring our yudansha (black belt ranks) in…
The promotion ceremonies on Sunday went well. Reed was the only shodan candidate but there were a number of higher rank promotions as well. I'll try to post photos once I get them off my phone.<br />
<br />
Congratulations to:<br />
<br />
Reed Wittman - as our newest Shodan<br />
Dusty Alexander - promoted to Nidan and awarded the title of sensei<br />
<br />
There were a number of other dan promotions in the other martial arts styles (Kodenkan teaches a wide range of martial arts).<br />
<br />
This will bring our yudansha (black belt ranks) in battodo to 12, I believe:<br />
<br />
Shodans - Shaun, Stephanie, Andrew C., Steve, Andrew D., Reed<br />
Nidans - Russell, Bianca, Monica, Dusty<br />
Higher - John (Shihan), Rawn<br />
<br />
We may have another one next year, if all goes well.<br />
<br />
As we tell all shodans, the dan rank means that you are now a serious student, not a master by any means. Even an instructor is a student learning how to impart their knowledge to others.<br />
<br />
Good job! Now, go out an teach more students :)Black belt (Shodan) testing coming uptag:battodo.ning.com,2009-06-09:1153601:BlogPost:64812009-06-09T23:19:23.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
I haven't posted in a while, being busy with my day job, but just a few notes.<br />
<br />
We have one candidate testing for his Battodo shodan under the Kodenkan and Ryuseikan this month: Reed Wittman. We usually split the test across two days because of venue. The first part is the cutting and individual kata tests with a shinken which we normally conduct outdoors. We videotape this portion to send to our Soke in Japan. The second part is testing of all katas individual and with a partner, wazas and all…
I haven't posted in a while, being busy with my day job, but just a few notes.<br />
<br />
We have one candidate testing for his Battodo shodan under the Kodenkan and Ryuseikan this month: Reed Wittman. We usually split the test across two days because of venue. The first part is the cutting and individual kata tests with a shinken which we normally conduct outdoors. We videotape this portion to send to our Soke in Japan. The second part is testing of all katas individual and with a partner, wazas and all their knowledge at that level. This is conducted by the instructor and performed by the student before a panel of a number of Shihans from the Kodenkan.<br />
<br />
Reed has been a consistent student for about 4 years and now is sempai in the high school class. He helps me teach the younger and newer students ranging from 12-18 which can be quite challenging. He will be graduating high-school fairly soon as well, and going off to college, so we also wish him the best of luck in his future.<br />
<br />
As we tell our students, we only test students that we think can perform at that level already. A shodan rank is also a beginning, not an end. There is so much more they can learn. But, it does mark their proficiency across a significant level of progress and ready to work on the harder skills that require deeper practice and commitment. In my view, after a certain level of practice you may realize that higher ranks are not as important as the skills you gain, and how contribute to encourage the martial arts.<br />
<br />
<br />
-rawnBrown belt tests at the highschooltag:battodo.ning.com,2009-04-22:1153601:BlogPost:62612009-04-22T16:26:15.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
We tested three students for the sankyu ranks yesterday and they all passed. This is the first of the brown "belt" ranks--three ranks even though we don't use actual belts. There was a little added pressure being out in the 98 degree weather in the field, with the sun in their eyes. It adds to the difficulty of the test by distracting them with discomforts and stress.<br />
<br />
Their kesa-giri on half goza was generally good, although some had to take their 1 do-over to get it right from both…
We tested three students for the sankyu ranks yesterday and they all passed. This is the first of the brown "belt" ranks--three ranks even though we don't use actual belts. There was a little added pressure being out in the 98 degree weather in the field, with the sun in their eyes. It adds to the difficulty of the test by distracting them with discomforts and stress.<br />
<br />
Their kesa-giri on half goza was generally good, although some had to take their 1 do-over to get it right from both directions. All of them can cut their kiri-ages as well on the half-goza which puts them ahead of their rank now.<br />
<br />
I invited sempais Andrew Dicenso and Steve Waldstein to do the testing as well. As shodans, it is their responsibility to learn the testing procedures and protocol. We split one test per person and I'll turn in each of those to the KDK Yudanshakai. Seeing three sets of paperwork perhaps may be confusing for them, but better that it's officially on record.<br />
<br />
Sadly enough, the Hanwei XL Light katana is already bending, after only about 10 total (different) days of use. That's not a good sign. I'm sure there's some abuse going on, but I don't expect this to happen so soon. There's about a 10-15 degree bend in the monouchi (cutting area). I may have had something<br />
<br />
<br />
I actually look at that as what a student should be able to do: when going in for testing at any rank, they should know or be able to perform the skills at the rank above them, even if they're not being tested at the higher rank. If they can barely make the current test requirements and not exceed them, then they may start leveling off soon. I think as a policy there are no double promotions in our system (to two levels above), but this will still show who is already accelerated.<br />
<br />
I have had that as my own personal standard for many years now, all the way from Rokkyu. At this point as sandan, I can make the cuts at yondan level nearly 90% of the time, and godan level about 60%. But cutting isn't the only thing. Keep that in mind.Cutting at the high-schooltag:battodo.ning.com,2009-04-08:1153601:BlogPost:61812009-04-08T22:02:55.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
It was an interesting cutting day for the junior high school students. Many missed class so we had extra goza left and I let some of the lower ranked students attempt it -- only those who have demonstrated some degree of control.<br />
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It's not a surprise to me but the first time cutting is either a positive or negative surprise to people. The three new first timers have been in the class for different periods of time. Two have been there for almost two years now and one is in their second semester.…
It was an interesting cutting day for the junior high school students. Many missed class so we had extra goza left and I let some of the lower ranked students attempt it -- only those who have demonstrated some degree of control.<br />
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It's not a surprise to me but the first time cutting is either a positive or negative surprise to people. The three new first timers have been in the class for different periods of time. Two have been there for almost two years now and one is in their second semester. Time itself is not enough as they found out. But angle (tachisuji and hasuji) were bigger problems. Then finally, it was a matter of speed/power.<br />
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All the basic workout practice we do with makko-giri, kesa, etc. can become boring but it takes a lot of time before you can swing it fast enough. Remember these are fairly young folks and not all have the strength to even swing with much power. One was not fast enough to cut effectively, and got stuck in the half goza.<br />
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Some of this may be because they are still unsure or afraid of swinging the sword too hard. A common fear is loosing the sword as you swing it because you don't know if you have enough control on it. That's true enough, but that's why you need to practice swinging hard and fast on the bokken.<br />
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When you switch to the katana, the extra weight makes it more cumbersome, but your grip on the weapon needs to be the same. Most bokkens have smooth handles or no wrappings, whereas katanas do. So, you get extra grip with the katana in addition to the weight, even while the bokken is lighter.<br />
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Hopefully everyone had fun nonetheless. The first cutting experience tends to be memorable at that age.Athletic trainingtag:battodo.ning.com,2009-04-01:1153601:BlogPost:61412009-04-01T16:51:45.000Zrawnshahhttp://battodo.ning.com/profile/rawnshah
I ran into Seth Pepper yesterday at a cafe. Seth's the videographer working with Shihan John, but also happens to be a former swimming champ. He was ranked fourth in the world in the early/mid-1990s, and missed making the Olympics by 4/100 of a second in the trials.<br />
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As a sport, swimming is far further evolved than what we have in most martial arts, not simply in being an Olympic event and having collegiate & national teams everywhere. It's in the level of teaching and coaching that occurs…
I ran into Seth Pepper yesterday at a cafe. Seth's the videographer working with Shihan John, but also happens to be a former swimming champ. He was ranked fourth in the world in the early/mid-1990s, and missed making the Olympics by 4/100 of a second in the trials.<br />
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As a sport, swimming is far further evolved than what we have in most martial arts, not simply in being an Olympic event and having collegiate & national teams everywhere. It's in the level of teaching and coaching that occurs in swim teams, the dedication of the athletes, and the organization pervasively at all levels of schools.<br />
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Take athletes for one: I consider someone who is going to dedicate more than casual/hobby interest, train several times a week, seek out how to improve themselves to a fine degree, and consider all the dimensions of the problem. Notice I don't say that you have to be big, strong, fast, agile or otherwise. These are the proficiencies that come out of that degree of training.<br />
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Most of our students are interested in battodo as a hobby or lifestyle interest. Don't get me wrong, this doesn't mean that they don't enjoy it, or are not skilled. However, athletic training means giving up much more of your time every day or week to focus on training.<br />
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Seth gave an example: in swimming, you need to learn not just how to pace yourself, but know in your head what pace you are going at (e.g, low, half-speed, 90%, maximum, full out) based on your ability. This is something you need to do while you are in the midst of the actual exercise. In other words, you may be going full out, but need to be thinking not only of the technique but that you are going full out and may not have the stamina or strength after that technique to continue. This is pacing strategy: knowing when to apply the right pace.<br />
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Pace is only one factor. Positioning is another; not in terms of where you are physically, but in relative terms of: "<i>what do I do in this situation?</i>" That applies to all competitive sports. Both pace and positioning can be trained entirely mentally; i.e., pictured in your head without ever doing it.<br />
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The factorI find is that most practitioners in our sport has primarily been focused around collecting "techniques", which becomes a limiting issue. I'll save that for another post.