The practice of bokken (wooden sword) arts is an integral part of Aikido training in Aikido Yuishinkai.  Amongst other things, solo and paired bokken practice plays an important role in helping develop key skills for unarmed arts.  These skills include foot work, distance, timing, centred movement, correct posture and striking.

At our dojo we take an integrated  approach to the role of the bokken in our studies. For example, when we practice unarmed arts we look at the inherent bokken movements contained within the particular technique.  Conversely, when practising with the bokken, this is always done with a focus on the skill groups we are trying to develop to aid our unarmed practice.  The benefit of taking this approach is that it continually gives our training context.

In the below video Master Koretoshi Maruyama, Founder, Aikido Yuishinkai provides instruction on the fundamental foot work and cutting movements for the bokken exercise mawashi uchi.  Also included  in the video is a demonstration by Peter Kelly Sensei (Chief Instructor Australia) and Alistair Williams Sensei of the paired practice application of the exercise.

Have a great weekend

Ian Grant
Head Instructor
Aikido Warrior Dojo