Naginata is both a traditional Japanese weapon and a modern budo sport. The weapon consists of a sword-like blade mounted on a long staff and was historically used by both foot soldiers and warrior monks in medieval Japan. Over time, it was replaced on the battlefield by spears and firearms, but its versatility and range made it particularly suitable for women, helping it become a symbol of female self-defense within the samurai class.
Today, naginata is practiced as a modern martial art, often called atarashii naginata. The training includes both form exercises (engi) and free sparring (shiai) with protective equipment similar to that used in kendo, but adapted for the handling of the weapon, and with the addition of leg guards (strikes to the legs are not allowed in kendo. The focus in modern naginata is on personal development, discipline and mutual respect rather than on defeating the opponent.
Although the sport in Japan is traditionally associated with women and about 90% of the practitioners in Japan are women, it looks different internationally. In Sweden and Europe, there are about the same number of female and male practitioners.
IKSU kendo has conducted naginata activities since 2023.
Begin practice
As a beginner you don't need anything extra, we train barefoot and it's okay to train in regular training clothes at first. Weapons are borrowed from the club. At first we practice basic techniques and the first Shikake-Oji (a type of kata). Gradually we introduce armor and it's okay to borrow armor to try out.