Why: Thousands practice Chinese sword forms, but few have been trained in their actual martial use. Chinese swordsmanship in the modern era is almost a lost art, this seminar is a rare opportunity to study this art.

What: The seminar carries students from a basic understanding of how to use a blade in combat through the basic cuts to an elemental understanding of swordsmanship.
Students learn proper grip and stance, basic cuts, twoman drills, and free swordplay, and leave with an understanding of Chinese swordsmanship.

Who: While those who have previously studied a taiji jian form will find the techniques presented most familiar, all styles of Asian and European swordsmanship are welcome, regardless of background or skill level.

The Instructor: Scott M. Rodell, author of “Chinese Swordsmanship, The Yang Family Taiji Jian Tradition,” “Taiji Notebook for Martial Artists”, & “A Practical Guide to Test Cutting for Historical Swordsmanship” is Director of the Great River Taoist Center (www.grtc.org) and is an International-Recognized teacher of Chinese Historical Swordsmanship. Rodell leads regular training in the US, Europe and Australia.

Equipment: Eye Protection is Required (safety goggles or approved fencing mask), full protective gloves are strongly recommended, please bring your own. There will be a limited number of sturdy wooden swords available during the seminar, please bring one of your own if available.

Costs: The open seminars will cost € 95,- per day. There are discounts for "Jian Fa vrienden".