- Experience
No experience in martial arts is required, but it may be beneficial in your learning progress if you do some “homework” into classical Japanese martial arts.
- Reading Materials
First, students need familiarity or at least an understanding of what koryū is. Students need to make sure that they understand what they are getting themselves into, commitment-wise and to make sure that they understand the cultural and historical aspects.
Here is a list of books that will help with understanding koryū.
1. In the Dojo: A Guide to the Rituals and Etiquette of the Japanese Martial Arts by Dave Lowry
2. Koryu Bujutsu: Classical Warrior Traditions of Japan, Vol.1
3. Sword & Spirit: Classical Warrior Traditions of Japan, Vol.2
4. Keiko Shokon: Classical Warrior Traditions of Japan, Vol.3
5. Old School: Essays on Japanese Martial Traditions by Ellis Amdur
- Required Equipment
Clothing : A keikogi (Kendogi or iaigi will suffice), a kakuobi, hakama and a pair of tabi for the Winter months.
Weapons: At first, a decent bokuto will suffice. Later on, you will be required to purchase your own iaitō (training sword for iai) and eventually a shinken (live blade).
Most training equipment can be purchased from Nine Circles Ltd. online store.
Copyright © 2010 S. Delaney. All rights reserved.
