1. Why did you decide to join the online lessons?

I have trained in martial arts since I was a teenager, with Shotokan karate as my primary style. However, I’ve been fascinated by the katana and Japanese swordsmanship since childhood, partly due to my avid interest in the TV series Highlander. When I first learned that Seki Sensei and Shogo were offering online lessons, I was intrigued but cautious. I wanted to ensure that I would be investing my time and training in a system that, to my understanding, was faithfully transmitting a traditional martial art and not diluting it to increase membership. So, I decided to wait a few months to see how the program developed. After joining, I quickly recognized the quality of instruction and the breadth of knowledge Seki Sensei brings, as well as his sincere commitment to preserving the art. I was particularly impressed by the detailed feedback from the instructors and felt confident in my decision to join the program.

2. What changed before and after you joined?

Training in Japanese swordsmanship, particularly Asayama Ichiden Ryu, has reignited my overall passion for martial arts and inspired me to delve deeper into my other training. Learning the reasoning behind certain techniques and movements has made me look at the techniques from other styles in a new light. It’s been interesting to observe how these martial arts styles complement each other, while also recognizing the similarities and differences in their training methods and philosophies. This program also emphasizes mental discipline, a core component of iajutsu, along with the physical discipline, that I find beneficial for building mental resilience and focus.

3. What is the best part about joining the training/community?

One of the many aspects I truly enjoy about Asayama Ichiden Ryu is its graceful movements, the preservation of a 400-year-old tradition, and its emphasis on practical and functional sword techniques. Additionally, one of the best parts of joining this community is the people—Seki Sensei, the other senseis who assist during lessons, and the dedicated support and management of the program by Shogo. I appreciate how seriously Seki Sensei takes his role as headmaster and his commitment to preserving the art while sharing it with the world. He and the other instructors maintain a strict standard, offering honest and constructive feedback. I also appreciate the professionalism and sincerity Shogo brings to ensure a high-quality learning experience. And finally, the other trainees are very supportive of each other.

4. What future goals would you like to achieve through the training?

I’m eager to continue improving my technique and deepening my knowledge of this art. I can already see how the martial application of this system complements my other training, and I want to keep exploring what Asayama Ichiden Ryu has to offer. The depth of this art continues to impress me. Depending on what the future holds, maybe one day I can have the honor of assisting Seki Sensei in spreading the art to others and passing on what I’ve have learned.