We train in Laoshi Scott Rodell’s method of swordsmanship.
Our training includes:
Solo drills to learn the cuts, deflections, stepping, combinations, and strategies of sparring with the Jian
Forms for Jian and Dao
Partner Drills* - develop timing, sense of distance, and angles of attack
Sparring* - Everything from half speed fixed step to full speed sparring
We encourage students who pursue Jianfa to enroll in the online academy at https://www.chineseswordacademy.com
We have spare Jians for newcomers but each student is encouraged to obtain their own weapon. Instructors can help students in obtaining a proper jian.
*Safety is everyone's responsibility. Hand and eye protection is required for partner drills. Protective equipment for sparring varies by intensity of the play agreed to by the students. Instructors are knowledgeable in equipment needs and will make recommendations.
At Earth and Wood Martial Arts, we don't do flimsy, performance-art sword routines. We train in authentic Chinese Swordsmanship (Jianfa) using the practical methods of Laoshi Scott Rodell. Learn the real geometry of cuts, deflections, and distance using historically weighted swords. No uniforms, no ego—just real martial skill. Join our Milford, CT study group this Wednesday.
Train the blade, not the performance
Chinese Swordsmanship
(Jianfa)
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start swordsmanship?
As your first endeavor into the martial art - It is entirely reasonable and doable for swordsmanship to be your first introduction into the martial arts. You will need to develop your stance and body mechanics, in addition to a sense of the weapon. People practice what they enjoy and if you enjoy swordsmanship, you will practice and improve.
As a life-long martial artist - This is how Bob and Neil came to swordsmanship. It is an extremely rewarding and satisfying path. If you study any Chinese Martial Art you will find the basic cuts of this system highly applicable to your straight sword (Jian) form. You will find that the partner drills add a “sense of the duifang” in your form practice. And sparring will help tremendously with realism.
As a HEMA or sword practitioner - We have had mutually beneficial interactions with HEMA practitioners. Chinese Swordsmanship is a distinct art. Generally, HEMA practitioners are comfortable sparring and specific differences, such as weight distribution, are more challenging.
What should I buy to get started?
Nothing. It is really helpful to handle a wooden sword (Mujian) and see protective equipment before you make any purchases.
What type of Chinese Swordsmanship is practiced here?
We train in the method taught by Laoshi Scott Rodell. Joining the Academy of Chinese Swordsmanship, in addition to in-person training will produce the best results.
How long do I need to train?
What are your goals? If you want to be able to recognize the basic cuts in a form that will only take a couple of months. If you are interested in using this methodology in a non-cooperative context that will take significantly longer.
Do I have to spar?
No. We have a general progression of basic cuts to partner drills to sparring at various levels of intensity. Everyone is welcome to engage in as much or as little of that as desired.
Why wood? Why not use metal and pad up?
Every martial artist has to choose their path. We prefer to emphasize control and wear minimal protective gear. That means you will start very, very slow with a wooden sword and eye protection. You must build rapport with your training partners and develop your control. Putting on padding and sparring is a privilege and it must be earned.
Is there a ranking system?
No. You are welcome to compete in the Traditional Chinese Sword League Tournament.
Are there uniforms?
No. Just train in what you are comfortable in, typically sweatpants, t-shirts, etc.
How do I practice at home without a partner?
While there is absolutely no substitute for partner training in swordsmanship, there are often ways to improve practice at home and it is important to communicate. Please ask questions about how to practice at home. Please share what you are practicing at home and how you feel about it.
