Bokken - Wooden Sword

Click here for the parts of the bokken

O Sensei created Aikido from a synthesis of weapon disciplines including swordsmanship, the staff, and bayonet fighting. Using an approach to Aiki-ken as practiced by my Sensei, I share these principles of Aiki-ken with my students beginning with some etiquette and basic exercises. Aiki-ken uses the principles of Aikido in its application. The student flows with each attack and movement without blocking or clashing with the attacking force.

The drills and exercises in the following pages on bokken have similarities to various sword systems. It does not claim to be a part of those schools. For us, it is a means to develop confidence and ease in Aiki-ken. These drills and exercises will also serve to improve your tai-jutsu movement and skills.

  • Carrying
  • Seated Bow - Before Class
  • Seated Bow - After Class
  • Standing Bow
  • Bowing to a Partner

TEITO: Carrying and walking with the bokken.
Treat the bokken as a real sword. When carrying it around, treat it with respect and hold it neatly by your side. It should not knock into anything or anyone accidentally or on purpose.

TOREI: Seated bow to the bokken.
This is also known as the 'formal bow', performed at the beginning and at the end of an Aiki-ken Class. At rest, the bokken is on your right with the edge of the blade (Ha) facing you. When you are ready to practice, it will be on your left side with the Ha facing outward and away from you. A Shinken or Katana would be placed in your belt (Obi) instead of your left side.

TOREI: Seated bow to the bokken.
This is also known as the 'formal bow', performed at the beginning and at the end of an Aiki-ken Class. At rest, the bokken is on your right with the edge of the blade (Ha) facing you. When you are ready to practice, it will be on your left side with the Ha facing outward and away from you. A Shinken or Katana would be placed in your belt (Obi) instead of your left side.

TOREI: Standing bow to the bokken.
This is performed after taking the bokken from its display or weapon-bag. You may face the Kamiza when performing this in the Dojo. The blade-edge (Ha) faces upward with the handle (Tsuka) to your left. Keep your back straight and bend from the waist when bowing.

TACHI REI: Standing Bow to a partner.
This standing bow is performed to your Sensei, the Shomen (Kamiza), and to your partner when you are carrying a weapon.

 


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Webpages & Illustrations by Rafael Oei Victoria, BC, Canada
Updated: 23 September, 2020