Uniform
White Keikogi, black Hakama, white Obi
Treening weapons
Shiai Naginata
For regular training and full-contact sparring, we use the Shiai Naginata. It is designed for safety and durability:
The Shaft (Habu) : Crafted from solid oak for a sturdy grip.
The Blade (Ebu) : A flexible, replaceable tip made of bamboo.
Assembly (Sendanmaki) : The shaft and blade are securely fastened together with white elastic adhesive tape.
Kata Naginata
For practicing the Zen Nihon No Kata (official forms), we use a different version. This Naginata is carved entirely from oak, providing the authentic weight and balance required for formal kata performance.
Equipment for Tendo-ryu
In Tendo-ryu we follow a comprehensive system of classical fencing that utilizes traditional wooden weapons crafted from solid oak.
Training with these wooden replicas allows us to master the precise techniques, preserving the sophisticated martial science of a true Koryu (classical school).
Naginata (Long pole-sword)
Tachi (Long sword)
Kodachi (Short sword)
Jo (Short staff)
Kusarigama (Chain-sickle)
Tanto (Dagger)
Bogu armor is the form of Your presence in the moment of truth
Atarashii Naginata is a sophisticated, full-contact martial art. Once the basic techniques are mastered, the practitioner transitions to Shiai (sparring) — the “moment of truth”, when theory meets practice.
Traditional protective armor known as Bogu is essential for the sparring. Putting on the armor is a meditative ritual, performed while Seiza (kneeling position), honoring the equipment that allows our bodies to “think” under pressure.
The components of Bogu are donned in a specific, mindful order:
- Tare (Thigh guards): Protecting the lower body, with a Zekken (chevron) on the central section
- Sune-ate (Shin guards): Essential for the unique low strikes of Naginata.
- Do (Cuirass): A shield for the torso, providing a solid core.
- Men (Helmet): Worn over a traditional Tenugui (headband) to focus the mind and protect the head.
- Kote (Gloves): Protecting the hands while maintaining the flexibility needed for complex movements to control the naginata.
