Something interesting about training with the sword is that it seems to actually be the most spiritual of the combat practices. We have observed that when we train with the sword we automatically bcome deeply focused, posture and ballance are easily learned, it's really enjoyable on a deeper level, and to train with the sword gives a person a real sense of being a warrior.
We do not teach the sword way expecting that we'll end up in a sword battle, though it does sometimes happen here and there to people. But really, we train to use anything as an aid in combat. But the sword we train with to develope that sense of warriorhood, plus we can teach many lessons through it.
Our tradition is new, but not its roots. In the old ways, back in the days when swords were the weapon to be used, there was a general rule in using it by our predecessors. Win, and win fast. Two blades are not to clash with eachother. The idea was to cut the enemy, not his blade.
In this image, note how the sword is being held. A reverse grip, and held behind. The reason for this is that the swordsman is not planning to clash blades. He awaits the enemy's move, and from there shall cut. If the enemy swings at him, he may dash forward into the attack and cut into the enemy's wrist, and then stab into his abdmen. A quick end.
