Teaching and Training

This section describes how training can be structured and how progress in teaching this system can be organized.

Structure of a Training Session

A typical training session lasts 60 to 90 minutes and follows a clear structure. It leads from controlled preparation to application.

• Opening meditation: Begin with a short phase of meditation to set focus and prepare for training.
• Warm-up: Prepare the body with light movement and dynamic exercises. The focus is on mobility and activating the muscles and joints used during training.
• Rolling: Practice falling and rolling to internalize safe movement and build confidence.
• Techniques: Work on individual techniques such as cuts, stances and parries. Pay attention to precision, control and clean execution.
• Drills: Practice structured sequences with a partner to develop timing, coordination and flow.
• Application: Apply the techniques in more open situations. This may include choreographed sequences or controlled free sparring with foam weapons.
• Closing meditation: End the session with a short phase of meditation to relax and bring the training to a close.

Fighting with Foam Weapons

Pure choreography does not sufficiently develop timing or a sense of distance. Use controlled sparring with foam weapons to build these skills.

Safety Considerations

Keep the training area clear and suitable. Check that the equipment is in good condition, especially the tip of the weapon. Unless additional protective equipment is used, avoid thrusts and strikes to the head.

Establishing Rules

Agree on clear rules before starting. A simple approach is to stop after a clean hit and begin again. Define in advance which targets are allowed and what counts as a valid hit. For beginners, it can be useful to allow only hits to the body and exclude the head, hands and thrusts.

Use the counter rule: a hit only counts as clean if the attacker cannot immediately be hit in return afterwards. If the defender can strike back immediately, the distance or control was insufficient. This rule promotes clean distancing and prevents both partners from simply trading hits.

Slow-Motion Training

Use slow-motion training to develop perception and control. Agree on a reduced speed and maintain it throughout the entire exchange. This allows both partners to recognize openings, make decisions and improve their reactions. Although slower than real movement, this method helps internalize timing, structure and an understanding of the interaction.

Rehearsing a Choreography

Use choreography as a training tool to develop control, timing and clarity in cooperation with a partner. The focus is not only on correct execution. Train sequences so they can be presented clearly, safely and consistently.

Building the Sequence

Begin with simple combinations of techniques that are already known. Do not introduce too many new elements at the same time. Divide the choreography into short sections. Teach each section individually and make sure that the beginning, end and transition are understood. Once the sections are stable, connect them into a continuous sequence. Keep the structure clearly recognizable. Correct movements when they appear unclear or disconnected. Each action should create the next.

Rehearsal Method

Begin slowly. Guide the participants through the sequence step by step until timing and positioning are understood. Increase speed gradually and only as long as control is maintained. If mistakes occur, reduce the tempo and correct them before continuing. Pay close attention to distance. Participants will tend to end up too close together or too far apart. Correct this early, as it affects both safety and clarity. Communicate with each other. The partners should coordinate timing, distance and intensity together. Do not allow the sequence to be forced.

Control and Safety

Demand control at all times. Strikes should be directed at the target, but stopped before contact unless otherwise agreed. Both partners are responsible for safety. If something feels wrong, stop and reset. New movements are not performed immediately at full speed. Introduce changes gradually and practice them before integrating them into the sequence.

Making Movements Visible

Train movements so they are clearly recognizable. Encourage slightly enlarged movements compared to technical training so that the intention becomes visible. Correct reactions so that it is clear when an action was successful. Avoid rushing. A well-timed sequence appears faster and more convincing than uncontrolled speed.

Refinement

Once the sequence is stable, the focus shifts to consistency. Repeat the choreography until it is performed with consistent timing and distance. Reduce small deviations. If training for an audience, adapt the choreography to the space and viewing angles. Make adjustments so that the sequence remains visible and safe.