Kashima Kenjutsu at Aikido West

Kenjutsu (swordsmanship) is an excellent complement to aikido training and helps develop well aligned and focused movement with power and subtlety. It is an ideal method for cultivating presence and focus while practicing fundamentals of distance, timing, coordination, and balance.

Classes combine solo exercises that build proper posture, movement, and body mechanics with paired kata (forms) from the Kashima Shinryu tradition. Kashima Shinryu is an older traditional Japanese martial art (koryu budo) that developed during Japan’s turbulent medieval period. Its teachings embody core principles of Japanese martial arts.

New students are welcome to observe or join at any time — no prior experience with weapons or martial arts required. Loaner weapons are available for use during class. Simply wear comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothing (sweatpants and a long-sleeve t-shirt or sweatshirt work well). Changing rooms are available on site.

Classes meet every Tuesday and Friday from 6:00 PM to 6:50 PM. Kenjutsu students are also welcome and encouraged to join the regular aikido class immediately afterward at 7:00 PM on those days.

Check out this video of dojo members Felicia and Michael demonstrating Kihondachi, the first and most basic kata series from the Kashima Shinryu curriculum.