Tanto Jutsu is a branch of Japanese martial arts that specializes in the use of tanto (knives) as the primary weapon. Throughout its long history, Tanto Jutsu teaches effective techniques in using knives for self-defense and offense. Tanto Jutsu training focuses not only on knife skills, but also on developing mental and physical discipline. Here is a guide to getting started with Tanto Jutsu training.

What is Tanto Jutsu?
Tanto Jutsu originates from the Japanese samurai tradition, where tanto (small knives) were used in a variety of situations, both as primary weapons and as additional defense tools. Although it may seem like a smaller martial art, Tanto Jutsu requires skill and a deep understanding of basic techniques and fighting ethics. The main focus is on speed, accuracy, and mastery of movement.

Tanto Jutsu Training Steps
Understanding the Tanto Weapon Before starting to practice, it is important to understand the form and use of the tanto. This knife has a short blade, usually between 15-30 cm, and is often used for close-range combat. Learn how to hold the tanto properly, namely with a stable and comfortable grip to allow for agile but controlled movements.

Warming up and Stretching As with other martial arts training, adequate warming up is the first step that must be taken. Focus on stretching the body as a whole, especially the arms, hands, shoulders, and back. Using the tanto relies on agile and precise movements, so a flexible and injury-free body is essential.

Basic Positions (Kamae) In Tanto Jutsu, the basic position or kamae is very important for defense and attack. Common positions used are:

Jodan-no-kamae: The position of the hand carrying the tanto at head height, ready to make a quick attack.
Chudan-no-kamae: The grip of the tanto in front of the body in a middle position, ready to defend or attack.
Gedan-no-kamae: The grip below the body, lower and useful for defense or downward attacks.
Practice this basic position by doing repetitive movements to build strength and stability of the body.

Basic Attack Movements After mastering the basic position, the next exercise is to practice basic attacks using the tanto. Some attack movements that need to be mastered include:

Men (Eyes up): Attack towards the opponent's face or head, which utilizes speed and accuracy.

Kesa Giri (Diagonal attack): Attack with a diagonal direction from top to bottom or vice versa.

Sokuto (Attack with the side of the blade): Using the side of the blade to attack the opponent's body.

Evasion and Blocking (Parry) Practice Speed ​​and evasion are key in Tanto Jutsu. Practice evasion or evasion techniques to avoid opponent attacks. Some basic evasion movements that need to be mastered include:

Retreat (Hikae): Using a backward movement to avoid an attack while maintaining balance.
Blocking (Uke): Using the tanto to block an attack, either with the side of the blade or the back of the hand holding the tanto.
Attack and Defense Combination Training After mastering the basic techniques, start training with attack and defense combinations. Try to combine several attack movements, such as Men, Kesa Giri, and Sokuto, with effective evasion and blocking techniques. This training aims to hone fighting skills and improve reflexes.

Partner Training Tanto Jutsu training with a partner is essential to improving real-world fighting skills. Practice the techniques you have learned in a battle simulation. Make sure to use a safe guard and knife during training. Training with a partner allows you to test techniques in more realistic situations.

Skill and Mental Improvement In Tanto Jutsu, mastery of physical techniques is important, but mental discipline and self-control are also highly regarded. Focus, calmness, and precision in every movement are important aspects of this training. Do meditation or breathing exercises to maintain mental stability during training.

Tips for Improving Tanto Jutsu Training
Practice consistently: Regular practice will help improve technical skills and reflexes. Kakek Merah
Learn the philosophy and ethics of the samurai: Understand the values ​​​​in Japanese martial arts, such as honor, discipline, and respect.
Use protective gear: Always wear hand, foot, and body protection when practicing with a partner to prevent injury.
Practice with an experienced instructor: Practicing with an experienced instructor will help speed up your technique development.
Conclusion
Tanto Jutsu is a martial art