Having proved himself adept at using a
bokken (wooden sword) in combat, Jack Fletcher is invited by Masamoto to train at his
Niten Ichi Ryu, the ‘One School of Two Heavens’ in Kyoto.
It is here Jack learns the skills and techniques necessary to be a samurai warrior:
Kenjutsu — The Art of the Sword
Taijutsu — The Art of the Body
Kyujutsu — The Art of the Bow
You too can train in the modern versions of these arts and many other martial disciplines. Every country in the world has developed its own form of martial art and there are now hundreds of different styles to choose from. It is important, therefore, that you find a style that appeals to you and suits your personal philosophy.
A comprehensive list of styles can be found at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_martial_arts
Advice
Whether your goal is to learn self-defence, build confidence or to stay fit, martial arts will sharpen your body and your mind. The following videos are designed to offer you an introduction to the skills of martial arts. They are no replacement for formal teaching from a qualified instructor, but will give you an insight into the world of the dojo.
Chris Bradford’s Top Five Martial Arts Tips
These videos are no substitute for proper training under the supervision of a qualified instructor. The author and publisher take no responsibility for any injuries resulting from attempting these techniques.
Links
These are the clubs I currently train at:
For Samurai Arts:
www.shinichido.org
For Ninja Arts:
www.shinobi-kai.net
If you are interested in joining a local martial arts club, refer to the following websites which are the governing bodies representing various styles. They can usually supply you with a list of registered clubs and qualified instructors:
USA:
United Martial Arts Association -
www.mararts.org
United States Judo Federation –
www.usjf.com
United States Karate Federation –
www.usakarate.org
List of US-wide martial arts schools -
www.usadojo.com
United Kingdom:
British National Martial Arts Association -
www.bnmaa.co.uk
British Judo Association -
www.britishjudo.org.uk
British Aikido Association -
www.aikido-baa.org.uk
English Karate Federation –
www.englishkaratefederation.com
General Club Listing -
www.martialartsclubs.co.uk
Australia:
Martial Arts Industry Association -
www.maia.com.au
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