But when noticing kenjutsu the sword cuts are to open and slow.
==>speed is not the key in executing sword cuts/techniques. If you use speed to try to overcome an opponent, you will only be able to compete with those who play "speed games."
In all martial arts, armed or unarmed, what is far more important than speed is your distance and timing. If you have not grasped these fundamental principles then you are doing your self a great disservice.
Which is the same with all Japanese sword fighting. It tends to be easily dodged and avoided.
==>When practicing techniques in class, with full knowledge of what attack is coming, in a safe environment, and with an opponent not delivering a skilled and forceful attack this would be true.
Get in a fight with a Chinese Kung Fu swordsman better watch out.
==>Curious what school of Kung Fu you are referring to?
I have nothing bad about the Japanese swords, or arts because I am currently training in he Bujinkan but it just seems that way.
==>I to am part of that organization, and several Ryu ha have sword kata and techniques. Have you ever seen Soke, or Manaka performing sword techniques? If so I think you would change your mind.
Perhaps the biggest thing you are having trouble with is assuming that the basic, fundamental training you are doing in your first few years of training is "real life fighting."
In the beginning attacks are going to be slow and awkward, else you would get your head split from a bokken. Eventually you will progress to a lvl where you will have a chance to more accurately gauge the strengths and weaknesses of various schools of swordsmanship.
Lance Boggs
Lance Boggs
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"The man who can most truly be accounted brave is he who best knows the meaning of what is sweet in life and what is terrible, and then goes out undeterred to meet what is to come."
Pericles