Introduction to Kamae Kihon

The instructor introduces the fundamental kamae (stances) of Jinen Ryu kenjutsu, explaining that these basic postures form the foundation of the sword system. The instruction will cover five primary kamae positions and their tactical applications.

Seigan no Kamae

Seigan no Kamae is the control stance where the right foot is forward with the left foot at a 45-degree angle back. The left hand maintains one fist-width distance from the hip, and the sword's tip (kisaki) aligns with a straight line between the swordsman's eyes and the opponent's eyes. The hips maintain at least a 45-degree angle to complete the posture.

Gedan no Kamae

Gedan no Kamae is assumed by lowering the sword tip from Seigan no Kamae to target the opponent's foot (toki). This stance's strategic purpose is to block or interrupt the opponent's initiating step or forward movement. The practitioner then returns to Seigan no Kamae to complete the transition.

Jodan no Kamae

Jodan no Kamae is entered by switching feet and raising the weapon overhead at a 45-degree angle, with the majority of weight distributed to the back leg. The arms remain soft and the wrists avoid unnatural bending during this high overhead position. This stance is designed for powerful downward striking from above.

Hasho no Kamae

Hasho no Kamae is assumed by stepping the left foot forward from Seigan no Kamae while turning the body completely blade-forward to the right side. The weapon maintains a gap between the forearm and torso, with the blade edge directed at the opponent and the hand positioned at temple or ear height. Proper footwork requires the left foot forward and the right foot perpendicular to it.

Shizen no Kamae

Shizen no Kamae represents a natural, relaxed posture where the sword rests naturally at the swordsman's side, cultivating a feeling of harmony with nature. This foundational stance is entered from Seigan no Kamae and provides a neutral position for technique initiation.

Strategic Intent Summary

The instructor clarifies that Jodan no Kamae is intended for powerful overhead strikes, while Tenchi no Kamae (mentioned in relation to the high stance) carries the feeling of cutting like a lightning bolt. Understanding the tactical purpose behind each posture enhances proper execution and application in practice.

Kenjutsu: Kamae Kihon, Jinen Ryu basic sword postures and intent

Yasuragi Dojo

Chudan No Kamae

2 min read·7 key moments·PT4M44S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Kamae Kihon
•Seigan no Kamae
•Gedan no Kamae
•Jodan no Kamae

The first part of the Jinen Ryu Bikenjutsu Chi no Maki, is kamae, or stances. As with the scrolls, there are five kenjutsu kamae for Jinen Ryu, which cover the major avenues of attack. Each kamae has a specific meaning and feeling. If one has perfect physical form but does not concentrate on having this feeling, the kamae is incorrect. • Seigan no kamae 青眼之構 • Has-So no kamae 八相之構 • Dai jodan no kamae 大上段之構 • Gedan no kamae 下段之構 • Shizen no kamae 自然之構 To think that kamae training is basic, is a misunderstanding of what kamae is. The complete cycle of training returns to kamae, and then follows the path of keiko no ho. One simply does not train kamae and then move on thinking they 'got it'. Kamae is the deepest part of budo training in my personal opinion. There is nothing 'mystical' or 'free' or other nonsense terms, made up by people not willing to do the work - it is pure physiology, mental acuteness and willingness to forge a deep understanding of self, in relationship to circumstance. In my experience, all training returns to this topic, and begins again in keiko no ho, then kakusei mushin. To learn more about my Dojo, please visit https://jissenkobudo.com #jinenkan #martialarts #dojo #mahopac #newyork

Related Techniques

Gedan No Kamae Hasso No Kamae Jodan No Kamae Waki Gamae

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about chudan no kamae?

This video covers introduction to kamae kihon, seigan no kamae, gedan no kamae. It provides detailed instruction from Yasuragi Dojo.

How long does it take to learn chudan no kamae?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.