The Suio Ryu is a sogo bujutsu (総合武術), a comprehensive martial tradition, that encompasses many waza (技, techniques). Only a portion are listed here. The curriculum includes both iai (居合, cutting from the draw) practiced solo, as well as paired techniques for a variety of other weapons that are practiced with a partner.
The first priority of study and practice is to develop a student's fundamental technique through solo practice of kata (形, pre-arranged combative forms). Every technique is intended to be delivered with full intent, as if one were actually cutting against a live opponent. Then, through paired practice, students develop deeper skill around timing and distance. Most of the solo waza can also be practiced with a partner by pairing an offensive technique with one that offers a suitable defensive response. |
"Growth can be defined as the enhancement of the individual through Budo. Becoming a slave to form kills the individual. The instructor must judge the individual and not detract their personalities from them. This ability to discern the difference is one of the most important points in training." - Katsuse Yoshimitsu Kagehiro, 15th Generation Soke
Iai 居合Go-yo (五陽之形) – Basic offensive waza from seiza
Go-in (五陰之形) – Basic defensive waza from seiza Tachi-iai (立居合之形) – Fundamental standing waza Kuyo (九曜之形) – Advanced seiza waza Kumi-iai (組居合) – Paired standing waza And more. Additional WeaponsJo (杖法) – Short staff Kenpo (剣法) - Battlefield swordsmanship Kogusoku (小具足) – Armed grappling Wakizashi (脇差) – Short sword Naginata (薙刀) – Glaive Most weapons have multiple sets of techniques — some performed against the sword, others against a like weapon, and some performed solo. |