Thread: Live blades
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Old 12-21-2001, 01:27 AM   #25
Olaf
Dojo: Aikido Dojo Rodgau
Location: Rodgau
Join Date: Feb 2001
Posts: 26
Germany
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It was mentioned in this thread before... but I would like to make the point more clear: instead of using a live blade for (faked) thrill, go and give the rubber knife a try.
At our dojo, we use rubber knives when training at advanced levels AFTER practicing the techniques' form with a tanto. Now uke can really go for it, with intent and mean, charging focus. If we are unable to interpret training-knife-cuts as in-fact-fails, then maybe we shouldn't check our brains along with the zori on the edge of the mat.

I think attacking half-heartedly and "carefully" to avoid injury is (except for forms training) nothing more than fake practice and teaches nage nothing but a convinced feeling of unreal invincibility, be it live blades or wooden ones.

If you want real thrill in gradings, try the above mentioned uke, but use a tanto (or a leather covered one from Bujin). If you "survive" the test realtively unbruised and are still able to join the others when they celebrate afterwards, you have had the experience you were after.

Have a good day.
Olaf Schubert
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