(See also https://koryumatters.wordpress.com/ & our Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIOcSEYMGjmEpPDuSTtj9bw )
Some pre-1600 samurai adopted a methodology for combat training that was unique amongst ancient warriors in that it didn't include sparring and was based on a highly sophisticated form of psycho-physical manipulation. Consequently, the samurai taught by this method may t
heoretically have been capable of the great prowess that is routinely attributed to the samurai--despite their very limited military achievements. Reasons why this may be the case include the unprecedented degree of psychological realism the method adds to training, as well as its potential to drastically reduce the warrior’s level of stress during battle. However, in order for this method to be even somewhat successful, let alone exemplary, the manner in which its exponents trained was crucial. More even than any other warrior-type, practice had to be not only very frequent but physically and mentally arduous, routinely dangerous and as far as possible take place in the conditions in which the techniques were designed to be used. For today’s students wanting to understand the potential of this method their only recourse is to spend a minimum of a decade adopting not only the regimen but also the mindset of the method's medieval predecessors. Unfortunately, today it seems that very few of the pre-1600 schools that have survived are requiring this level or type of commitment. Consequently, while these schools can verify their age and ours cannot, ours is certainly more genuine in that it provides its students with training that is closer to the original model and which is far more able to create battle-ready warriors. About the school:
This school has a very extensive curriculum that includes all the major samurai weapons as well many other supporting systems. The instructor, Phil Trent, has been a student of the school for 43 years and is one of only three non-Japanese to receive a teaching license from it. The training is unique but requires an extremely large commitment on the part of its students because practice becomes progressively more grueling both physically and mentally. As a result, students are also expected to practice on a daily basis in their own time. Also, any grades awarded are not permanent and are subject to reevaluation if a student's standards are felt to have dropped below appropriate levels. Classes are extremely disciplined, however they do not have the formality that is mistakenly thought of as being traditional with Japanese martial arts. Principally for safety reasons, there is a maximum of five students allowed so although this ensures that instruction is always very personalized it also means that there may not always be openings. This is not for anyone looking for a casual pastime
Previous experience in martial arts is not necessary and since this is primarily a study of medieval combat in general the training will complement and enhance any HEMA interest a student might have. For more information on the school's background:
https://koryumatters.wordpress.com/2016/04/30/elephantintheroom/
If you are interested in applying to become a student and live in the Dallas area, please contact me at [email protected].
