grip like you'd hold a hammer. You griped it tightly so you wouldn't drop
it, and by the end of your first fight, your forearm was tired and sore. If
you hadn't guessed, this is not the best way to hold onto your sword. It's
much better to grip your sword loosely and allow it to move a bit in your
hand. Your wrist must also be flexible. The power of a blow comes from
uncoiling your body and whipping the sword around to crack your opponent's
skull, not from a strong grip and a solid arm. Below, I've described two
methods of holding a sword. Both of which have worked for me. As always, my
way is not the only way do to things. If you find a technique that works for
you, then go for it (and show it to me so I can learn more).
The psudo-katana grip: Wrap your pinky tightly around your sword grip. Each
successive finger uses less force until you reach your forefinger and thumb
which barely touch the grip. If you were to wiggle your hand, the top of the
grip could "float" a bit. Some people tighten all of their fingers at the
moment of impact. I was never able to accomplish that without tightening my
finger too soon. I works just fine with your fingers loose all the way
through the blow.
The fencer's grip: Pin your sword grip between your thumb and forefinger.
The rest of your fingers should be very loose. In fact, the bottom of
the grip should drift away from your palm and rest lightly in your curled
fingers. Just before the moment of impact squeeze your fingers closed,
bringing the grip against your palm, and snapping the blade forwards.
Adam Hickam, 5th Kyu Kendoka, has kindly provided me with a description of the
proper katana technique, which is a two-handed affair:
The proper application of a men-waza, or head strike with a katana, is this: you
step forward with your right foot, and raise the sword above your head, with the
tip pointing back about 45 degrees. Then bring your left foot up behind you and
wring your hands together as the left arms pulls the sword down, and the right arm
pushes the sword toward the target. If you try it like this the power in your cut
will increase by at least three fold.
