‘Koshi-no-mawari’ translates as ‘around the hips’ in English. Derived from the (even older) Takenouchi-ryū iaijutsu practice bearing the same name, these iaijutsu forms develop the practitioner’s ability to use their main lever – the hips – to generate power behind their sword techniques and operate in a single unified manner. To do this effectively and efficiently takes much practice.
The forms distill a complete system of fencing, designed for the full spectrum of wartime and peacetime scenarios faced by samurai in feudal Japan.
In current times, Koshi-no-mawari is practised as a form of budō – a physical and mental practice to enable greater personal development. It’s practice develops greater focus and mental clarity, and decreases stress.
