Training Log

A place to log your training time.

  1. Seeing the Lines

    When I am cutting I have noticed that visualizing the lines before I make my cut helps keep my cuts clean. For complex cuts I typically take a few seconds to place imaginary lines where I plan to make my cuts. I look the mat up and down then place lines in my minds eye on each section and imagine the reaction I want from the mat. I have talked to several other people who also use this same technique when cutting. I am not sure why it seems to help but I have noticed better results when I use ...
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  2. Soak Times

    Consistent targets are invaluable for cutting. It is difficult to anticipate the reaction of your target if it has lumps, and dry spots. After several months of trial and error the Rook was able to find the perfect soak times for the striped tatami.

    First off, for a single roll split the mats (the mats come in a double roll size).

    Next, roll the mats using a dowel or broom stick. This will not only leave a hole for the peg but also smooth out the roll.

    ...
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  3. Log for 11-29-2010

    Performed with bokken
    200 downward cuts
    200 kesa open
    200 kesa closed
    150 suhei open
    150 suhei closed

    Performed with carbon steel iaito.
    75 draw cuts to yaku
    75 draw cuts to suhei

    30 push ups
    50 sit ups
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  4. Free Style Backyard Cutting

    * For me free style cutting is defined by its intent, which is simply the control of your target with a bladed weapon. The intention is not for me to learn the techniques of swordsmanship to survive a battle. It is not to fulfill a fantasy of being an ancient warrior. Neither is it to replicate the moves from my favorite video game character. Instead, my intention is to control either the mat or the bottle I am cutting with complete confidence (a goal in which I am very far from completing). ...
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