Do you know the Samurai Sword Training Stances (Kamae)? (Terminology of Bujinkan and some other schools)
Chūdan-no-kamae 中段の構え
Chūdan-no-kamae is the “middle stance” position in kenjutsu. This stance is both offensive and defensive, allowing for quick attacks and swift defenses, ready to transition into a strike or block.
Jōdan-no-kamae 上段の構え
Jōdan-no-kamae, or “high stance,” is when the sword is held above the head, with the tip pointing straight down, above the shoulder, or slightly to the rear. This stance is aggressive and ready for downward strikes, such as the “men” (head cut). The knees are bent slightly to maintain balance and to be ready to transition into action. The upper body remains upright, and the stance opens the practitioner to swift, decisive attacks. Use: Jōdan-no-kamae is useful for powerful strikes but leaves the practitioner more vulnerable to attacks below the waist. It can be a way to exert dominance and control the rhythm of the fight.
Gedan-no-kamae 下段の構え
Gedan-no-kamae is the “low stance,” where the sword is held downward, pointing toward the opponent’s lower body or at the ground, typically near the hip. This stance prepares the practitioner for low sweeps or defensive cuts. It may seem passive, but it is an excellent way to defend against high strikes while positioning the sword for a counterattack to the opponent’s midsection or legs. Use: The low stance is often used in conjunction with deceptive movements, allowing for quick thrusts or sweeps. It can be a setup for offensive action, especially in combination with footwork that can quickly bring the sword into an upper strike or thrust.
Hassō-no-kamae 八相の構え
In
Hassō-no-kamae, the sword is held slightly above the shoulder, with the tip pointing slightly forward or sideways. The left hand is lower on the tsuka (handle), creating an open line to either attack or defend. The body posture is relaxed but alert, with a slight bend at the knees for balance. The stance is versatile, ready to transition into various strikes from either side.
Use: Hassō-no-kamae is particularly good for mid- to high-range attacks and can be effective for intercepting the opponent’s blade. It allows the practitioner to defend and simultaneously prepare to strike.
Waki-gamae 脇構え
Waki-gamae is the “side stance,” where the sword is held at the side of the body, typically near the waist, with the edge facing upward. The sword’s tip is directed toward the opponent’s torso. This stance is often used as a deceptive guard, creating a false sense of vulnerability. It is particularly useful in unorthodox engagements, where the opponent may underestimate the practitioner’s readiness. Use: Waki-gamae allows for swift, surprise strikes or thrusts, often catching the opponent off guard. It’s ideal for close-range engagements.
Seigan-no-kamae (正眼の構え)
Seigan-no-kamae is the “front-facing stance” and is very similar to Chūdan-no-kamae but with the focus on maintaining a direct and unyielding posture toward the opponent. The sword is pointed directly at the opponent’s face or upper body. This position is often used to maintain an aggressive stance while still allowing flexibility to react. The practitioner uses this stance to observe the opponent’s movements and to control the centerline.Use: Seigan-no-kamae is about maintaining strong presence and controlling the opponent’s movements. It is excellent for both attacking and defending, and it allows for swift transitions into other stances.
Iai-gamae (居合構え)
This stance is primarily used in iaijutsu (the art of sword drawing). In iai-gamae, the sword is typically drawn from its scabbard and is held close to the body with one hand. The practitioner stands in a relaxed, centered position, ready to draw and cut in a single motion. This stance is often practiced as part of training for quick-draw techniques, where precision and speed are essential.Use: Iai-gamae is focused on drawing and cutting in one fluid motion. It is ideal for close combat situations where the practitioner needs to react quickly to an imminent attack.
References:
Yumoto, J. M. (1984). The Samurai Sword: A Handbook. Tuttle Publishing. Flanagan, T. L. (2001).The Book of Samurai. The Lyons Press. Nitobe, I. (1905). Bushido: The Soul of Japan. Dover Publications. Blackwood, M. A. (2003). The Art of Swordsmanship: A Study in Japanese Kenjutsu. Self-published. Green, M. (2014). The Samurai Sword: A Beginner’s Guide. CreateSpace. Yano, T. (1991). Kenjutsu: The Art of Japanese Swordsmanship. Kodansha International. Risuke, O. (2010). Iai: The Sword Drawn. Tuttle Publishing.