In swordwork, whether Asian or European, we can find three elements that comprise the basic training of a well-rounded practitioner. In English we refer to these as grip, awareness and posture. We will briefly discuss these and hopefully, the reader will find value in these explanations and attention will be added to these in training.

The grip of the sword, one handed or two, begins by having the handle lay across the palm of the right hand so that the last three fingers (middle, ring and small finger) can enclose and hold it in their grasp. The index finger and thumb both remain loose, only to tighten upon the blades impact with its target. Lastly, the left hand should grip the sword handle close to the butt end so that approximately one hand space separates both appendages.

Awareness is so very essential to swordplay that we say "the gentle person who is unaware is without life." We must learn to pay attention to both opponent and self in an encounter. There is great great necessity to notice our adversary's motions and abilities.

Lastly, we must learn to make a proper posture. Each posture that we assume has its own strengths and weaknesses. Each offers protection in an area while leaving us vulnerable in another. By assuming a good posture and knowing its strengths, as well as its weaknesses, we create a strong barrier between us and our adversary. Moreover, through learning what offers us good protection and what does not, we learn the weaknesses and strengths of our adversary's postures.

---

WE hope you enjoy Maestro: Insights into the Sword. If you have, please share it with some friends and link back to us. Copyright 1997, 2010 Joe Maurantonio & Darryl Caldwell