VIDEO Kicks in weapon-based martial arts (eg. sword fighting)

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Kicks in weapon-based martial arts (e.g., sword fighting) In a thought-provoking YouTube video, the topic of kicks in weapon-based martial arts, particularly sword fighting, is explored in detail. The host addresses a common inquiry regarding the limited use of kicks in these disciplines. Understanding the Rarity of Kicks in Swordsmanship The host starts by questioning the expectation surrounding the prevalence of kicks in various swordsmanship styles. He notes that while there are occasional kicks in traditional martial arts, they are certainly not a staple, especially in European and historical forms. This misconception often stems from the influence of movies, particularly martial arts films from the late 20th century that popularized the idea of dynamic kicking techniques in fighting scenarios. The discussion focuses on how film portrayals, especially those from the "Kung Fu" era of the 1970s and subsequent action series like "Xena" and "Hercules," have shaped public perception. The expectation of seeing numerous kicking techniques in swordplay is criticized as unrealistic and largely a cinematic fabrication. Historical Context of Kicks Diving deeper, the video highlights that, contrary to Hollywood's glamorization, historical martial arts practices show a limited incorporation of kicks. Notably, while the presenter's own system (fury delivery with longsword) does include kicks aimed at specific vulnerable areas, such as the knee or groin, these techniques are rare and strategically used to create openings for more effective weapon use. Interestingly, the presenter refers to European martial treatises that document techniques similar to side kicks, indicating that while kicks do have a place in these traditions, they primarily serve to assist in the deployment of the weapon rather than act as a primary method of incapacitating an opponent. Comparative Discussion with Asian Martial Arts Toward the conclusion, the video also draws comparisons with various Asian martial arts, noting that kicks are similarly infrequent within traditional weapon techniques. In disciplines such as Kendo, Filipino martial arts, and the Japanese Bujinkan, kicks appear rarely and usually serve similar functional purposes. Overall, the video underscores that while kicks have their place in both European and Asian weapon-based martial arts, they are not as prevalent as many might expect due in large part to cinematic influences. The key takeaway is that while kicking can be an effective technique, the primary focus in swordsmanship remains the use of the sword as the definitive tool for combat resolution. If you’re interested in martial arts or historical combat techniques, what do you think about the portrayal of kicks in modern media compared to traditional practices? Do you have any experiences with kicks in your martial arts training? Let’s discuss!