Katana Newbie. Any suggestions?

[decker]

I've been a very interested in swordplay since i was a child, and i finally purchased a paul chen katana and a wooden bokken. I beleive in respecting the blade and learning from it, not it teaching you (ie cutting yourself). I'm learning to use the katana for mental focus and discipline.

I was wondering if there are any good books or good websites that can teach me the maneuvers or steps.

I got a book from Barns and Noble about japanese swordsmanship. It teaches the basic stepping and basic stuff. I was just wondering if there was any better site out there or better book?

Thankx!

[Aegis]

From what little I've seen so far, there is a level within swordwork that is impossible to achieve from a book. I bought a book on iaido before starting my training, and what I learned from the book is sloppy at best and completely wrong at worst. Your best bet is to find a good teacher and learn from them.

[Sub zero]

The easiest way would be to find an iado club.Or maybe even a kendo club or both.
I think as far as wepons are conserned, for neone who is in experienced books r the wrong way to go.But they could beused as a resource later on.Just my own feelings there.

[JediMasterChris]

I'm sure there are some sword clubs in Georgia, like they said, Kendo, Iaido, Kenjutsu, or Battojutsu would be a good way to learn to use a sword.

[bishu-ronin]

i have to agree with aegis on the book thing. it is better to learn from a school and if you cant find a sword based school find one that would do private lessons. thats how i started then i got books to study...

[shadow joe]

or get a book or find a school that teaches Kendo, i totally prefer teh school idea...


especially with practice, in developing your skill practically you can't beat working with a partner and sparring. And Kendo is extremely fun, and pretty safe..


good luck,
peace

[Cudgel]

Yes find a school and good instructor. Because a books only make paper warriors.
ANd while I pe3rsonally dont practice a Japanese Sword art I know some who do check out swordforum.com

[JediMasterChris]

Books are okay to read if you already have a foundation in an art, but besides that, all they are good for is cutting practice.