Group Fighting

[Jack Chen]

Hello everyone,

All the training I've been through as always been 1 on 1. Or, perhaps 1 on 2, if you consider cutting in front, then dealing with the guy behind you.

Can someone point me to somewhere where I can find information on group fighting? From small scale groups (perhaps like the Shinsengumi), or warfield battle formations?

Thank you,
Jack

[DDATFUS]

I suspect that teachings on group fighting might appear in the oral teachings of many of the older sword styles. There was an article up on furyu.com explaining how the term "aiuchi"-- "striking together," usually used to describe situations where two opponents kill each other simultaneously-- was also used in Takeuchi Ryu to describe situations where you and a few of your buddies "struck together" to take out a single opponent. Given the situation of the Sengoku Jidai, I would be amazed if other schools didn't have similar teachings preserved in their densho or kuden, if not in their kata.

Unfortunately, furyu.com seems to be down at the moment and I can't link to the article.

[Ken-Hawaii]

Jack, I think part of the answer may depend on which ryuha you study. In our version of MJER, I can think of quite a few waza where we are attacking three & four opponents.

But if you're referring to one group attacking another group in "unison" (as much as that's likely to mean in a real battle...), then I'm not going to be of much help, at least on the sword side. Years ago & miles away, I used to train SWAT teams, but I think that's a tad off topic from what you're asking.

[Ookami7]

Jack,

Basically small unit tactics same old same old........
That being said, I believe there was another thread that had very limited info on here. Alot of the the battles tended to be massed formations so it really varies on tactics, time period etc etc. As stated look to the ryuha. Most should have something within their forms. Anyways good luck!

また、狼より/ Jeff

[Sukeyasu]

If your Japanese is proficient, you should take a look at Sasamori (Junzo) Sensei's book on the Itto Ryu. It should contain information on Ono Tadaaki's "happo bunshin" theory.

[hyaku]

Some older koryu schools work on the priciple that opponents come within ones maai and are dealt with accordingly wether it be one or more.