About the author

Dave Lowry is an author and a swordsman of the 21st generation of the Yagyu Shinkage tradition. Of the classical Japanese martial schools, the Yagyu is one of the most venerated, with a close connection to Zen and the politics of feudal Japan. Dave Lowry began his training in the classical art of Japanese swordsmanship in 1968 under the tutelage of Ryokichi Kotaro of Nara Prefecture. Lowry's training in thesse ancient arts has descended in an unbroken line that began with Yagyu Muneyoshi in the 16th century. His ryu-ha keizu (martial arts school genealogy) includes several warriors of note: Yagyu Toshiyori, first headmaster of Owari Yagyu Shinkage-ryu; Matsunaga Keinosuke, who participated in the battle at Sekigahara as a retainer of the Lord Miyoshi; Osada Itaro, teacher of fencing and tea ceremony ot the sixth shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune; and Okimoto Shuzo, retainer and assistant to the fudai (principal lord), Matsudaiira Keiei.

Lowry's martial arts experience also includes training in Kodokan judo and karate-do. He currently lives and trains near St. Louis, Missouri.

Contents

Origins of the Bokken-The role of the bokken in the development of swordsmanship throughout Japan's feudal period.
Training with the Bokken-Reasons and rational for the modern budoka's study of the bokken.
Selecting the Bokken and Equipment-Traditional wear for prectice and the various types of bokken available
Kihon (Basics and Fundamentals)-The correct stance, the proper grip, postures with the bokken in ready positions, body movements and footwork
Uchi Kata (Striking methods)-An introductin to various methods of cutting and striking with the bokken
Renraku Waza (Combination Techniques)-Combining footwork and proper body connection with coting and striking methods
Kumitachi (Techniques with a Partner)-Dual exercises to perfect the skills of combative distancing and timing against a real opponent
Zarei (Seated Bow)-The budoka begins and ends his training sessions with bows to the dojo, to the memory of the masters who've gone before, and to his opponent
Glossary-English definitions of the Japanese terms used throughout this book and in the common language of the Japanese sword art

I first picked up this book in 1995, and have been a fan of the bokken ever since. I found the photographs easy to follow and soon taught myself everything the book had to offer.

Shortly after that I began sparring with a kendo-trained partner and discovered that while the book in a microcosm certainly has its limitations, I did have a solid base and some good muscle memory to work with. I recommend this book as a good starting point for beginners. A quality hardwood bokken is a must, too. ( )