Sandia Budokan

Today our Ittō Tenshin-ryū® Kenjutsu class practiced Gyakutai, one of the Tachi no Kata from Yamate-ryū® Aikijutsu.

While the formal kata preserves the traditional movements and timing of the ryū, today's practice emphasized applying its underlying principles through kumitachi. Rather than reproducing a fixed sequence, the focus was on effective cutting, proper distance, timing, and decisively prevailing in a sword engagement.

Gyakutai (逆体) can be translated as "reverse body" or "sudden reversal of body movement," referring to the change in body rotation used to create the opportunity to cut uchi-tachi.

Japanese Swordsmanship • Aikido • Karate
Sandia Budōkan - Albuquerque, New Mexico

This week we practiced **Nagashi-barai**, a kumitachi from **Ittō Tenshin-ryū® Kenjutsu**.

A **kumitachi** is a traditional paired sword exercise in which two practitioners develop timing, distance, intent, and correct technique through structured practice.

Our regular classes combine partner practice with instruction to help students understand not only *how* a technique is performed, but *why* it is practiced.

Interested in studying traditional Japanese swordsmanship?

Sandia Budokan
Albuquerque, New Mexico

Tachi-uchi is where training partners meet with sincere intent and commitment to the practice.

Through repeated study of timing, distance, spirit, and technique, we develop not only skill with the sword, but also the mindset and character of a swordsman.

Sandia Budokan
Albuquerque, New Mexico