Introduction to Kamae Kihon

The fundamental stances of Jinen Ryu kenjutsu are introduced as the core postures from which all sword technique originates. Understanding these five primary kamae provides the structural foundation for effective sword work.

Seigan No Kamae: The Control Stance

Seigan no kamae establishes dominance over the opponent's centerline and intent. The practitioner positions the right foot forward with the left foot at 45 degrees, maintains proper knee alignment, and directs the sword's tip along a line connecting both practitioners' eyes. The left hand rests one fist-width from the hip, with at least 45 degrees of hip rotation to complete the stance.

Gedan No Kamae: The Lower Guard

From seigan no kamae, the sword tip lowers to target the opponent's feet, creating a defensive posture that disrupts initiating movement. This stance functions to control the opponent's stepping and incoming attacks by threatening their base.

Jodan No Kamae: The Upper Guard

The practitioner switches feet and raises the sword to a 45-degree angle overhead with weight centered on the back leg. The arms remain relaxed with natural wrist alignment, and the blade must not drift backward. This stance generates maximum striking power from above.

Hasho No Kamae: The Side Guard

The left foot steps forward as the body turns completely blade-side to the right, creating a narrow profile. The weapon maintains separation from the forearm with the blade edge directed at the opponent and the hand positioned at temple height. The right foot remains perpendicular to the advanced left foot.

Shizen No Kamae: The Natural Stance

The sword assumes a natural resting position at the side, reflecting harmony between the practitioner and their environment. This stance embodies the principle of becoming one with nature while maintaining readiness.

Intent and Application Overview

Jodan no kamae channels intent toward powerful downward strikes, while tenchi no kamae (referenced in the context of upper stances) delivers cutting action with lightning-like speed and precision. Each kamae serves a distinct tactical purpose beyond its physical form.

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

Yasuragi Dojo

Gedan No Kamae

2 min read·7 key moments·PT4M44S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Kamae Kihon
•Seigan No Kamae: The Control Stance
•Gedan No Kamae: The Lower Guard
•Jodan No Kamae: The Upper Guard

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

Chudan No Kamae Hasso No Kamae Jodan No Kamae Waki Gamae

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about gedan no kamae?

This video covers introduction to kamae kihon, seigan no kamae: the control stance, gedan no kamae: the lower guard. It provides detailed instruction from Yasuragi Dojo.

How long does it take to learn gedan 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.