Principles for Effective Cutting ~
Jim Alvarez & Dave Wilson

Learn how to apply efficient and effective cutting principles to your sword technique by using Tatami Omote; a rolled and soaked mat that makes a dense target which mimics the physical properties of muscle and connective tissue. The principles of sword control, body dynamics, balance, distance, and timing will all be practiced to help each student learn the technical aspects necessary for proper cutting technique.

Schedule:  Sat 9am, Sat 4pm, Sun 9am
Maximum Size: 6 students per class
(pre-register or sign up at our vendor table)
Fee: $20, paid directly to class instructor
(5-6 targets will be provided per student)

Dave and Jim are frequently asked to bring their experience in target cutting to Western Martial Arts events and private seminars. They have worked with several well-known and experienced WMA instructors to identify the elements that are shared by both EMA and WMA to produce the most efficient and effective cutting technique. After long discussions everyone realized that regardless of the type of sword used, there are many principles of movement that are the same in most styles of swordsmanship.

Based on these core principles the class is designed so that we can work with each individual to teach them correct body dynamics and proper control of their sword so that they can develop extremely strong and agile cutting techniques. This class is intended to give the student a firm grasp of the basic skills that will allow the student to safely continue working on their own to improve their cutting ability.

Instruction will explore the following:

• Proper Grip
• Controlling and Stopping your Sword
• The Importance of Edge and Swing Angle
• Body Dynamics when Cutting
• Tip Velocity and Extension
• Transitions Between Cuts
• Multiple Target Cutting (if time and space allow)

Prior experience: The participant must feel comfortable using a sharp sword, we recommend at least 6 months to 1 year of sword related training. You will be asked to perform a simple drill to qualify for the seminar.

Equipment: Sharp swords will be available to use at the seminar. If a student would like to use their own sword it must be inspected and approved by us prior to the seminar.

Small Print: Because participants will be using sharpened blades, important issues and requirements regarding safety will be strictly enforced. It is the participant’s responsibility to be aware of, and adhere to, the following:

• You take part in this seminar and participate in this class at your own risk.
• We will determine what type of cut the participant will be allowed to perform.
• We reserve the right to expel anyone from our class that we deem unsafe or who is unwilling to adhere to our instructions.
• Anyone who consistently hits the tip of their sword on the ground or loses the grip on their sword (i.e. the sword leaves their hand) will immediately stop cutting and will not be allowed to continue, regardless of how many targets they have left. Class fees are not refundable if this happens.
• If you damage a sword or cutting stand due to negligence you are liable for the cost of repair, or replacement, of the sword and/or equipment.

Click for more Registration Info.

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