What is swordsparring?
In China there are several names for swordmanship:
- Jian Fa 劍 法 = sword rule, sword method
- Jian Shu 劍 術 = sword art
- Jian Dao 劍 道 = way of the sword
- Ji Jian 擊 劍 = fighting, fencing with the sword
Although most of the chinese martial art styles do have their own sword forms and sword applications most of the basic principles and techniques are identical.
Swordsparring Ji Jian 擊 劍 provides an opportunity to pratice
close to reality. This includes the practice of basic techniques with
the chinese sword (Jian 劍) as single and paired exercises as well as
freefight with swords. This training makes not only a lot of fun but
also improves the understanding of sword forms and -techniques.
The sword (Jian 劍) is a traditional weapon of the chinese martial arts
and is also used in Taijiquan. In contrast to the curved and heavy
sabre (Dao 刀) the lighter sword has a straight sharp double-edged blade
which tapers to the tip.
The quality of the sword determines a more sensitive and flexible way
of appliance and since the same principles are practiced it is an
excellent extension of form and tui shou 推 手 (push hands) exercises.
Yan Gaofei - Chen style sword form (left) and application with softsword (right)
However it is difficult to perform paired exercises with the sword like
in tui shou 推 手 because there is a high risk of injury. By use of exercise
swords and protective equipment (german) this risk can be
reduced.