Why Studying the Japanese Sword Still Matters in Modern Martial Arts

Without question martial arts change and adapt over time as both internal and external forces from society and technology guide them.

Staying up-to-date and aware is the goal of every martial artist.

Those that navigate the martial arts from a real-world perspective will often focus on only the most practical of applications, the here and now of what works for today.

Which makes sense as it is a total number game.

Even optimized, and with distractions eliminated there are only so many hours in the day to train.

Don’t waste any time on useless stuff.

So, what about the Japanese sword?

If your path takes you down the Japanese arts, do you need to study the sword (katana)?

Why do so many Japanese arts continue the use of the sword in modern teachings.

I’m not talking about trying to update old stuff to modem interpretations, nor HEMA inspired guesses, but rather the Japanese sword transmitted as it is.

I would put forth the possibility that yes, in the Japanese arts one needs to study the sword.

Why?

The sword is inseparable from the culture of the Japanese warrior arts, the mindset, internal tech, and higher-level lessons are all predicated on knowing the sword.

To understand the higher levels, one needs to be able to receive that transmission through the sword.

From there, once the movement is down, do with it what you will.