Scythe Combat Training
Foundations in Karate, Boxing, Yoga, and Musashi’s Niten Ichi Ryu. Training the body and breath so the scythe becomes an extension of you.
Foundations
Boxing — Footwork & Proof
Angles, guards, and the jab. Boxing footwork controls range, rhythm, and initiative — the same tools needed for scythe work.
- Entry/exit patterns, pivots, rhythm breaks
- Guard positions that map to scythe guards
- Timing tested under contact
Yoga — Alignment & Breath
Flexibility without collapse, stillness without lethargy. Yoga builds the breath and alignment that link structure to endurance and recovery.
- Mobility that supports cutting paths
- Cadence control & pressure management
- Recovery that keeps training sustainable
Niten Ichi Ryu — Strategy
Musashi’s “two heavens” guide scythe use: distance, initiative, and rhythm. The strategy behind every motion.
- Initiative and timing (Hyōshi)
- Transitions between stances & guards
- Seamless shift from empty-hand to armed
Hypertrophy & Strength
Myofibrillar
Heavy, low-rep loading for dense strength and control.
- 3–6 reps, full rest
- Explosive concentric intent
- Core lifts + rotation
Sarcoplasmic
Moderate loads and higher reps for work capacity and endurance.
- 8–15 reps, density blocks
- Shoulder, grip, and trunk volume
- Clusters and circuits
Strength-Endurance
Tendons, joints, and posture under fatigue. The “armor” for weapon training.
- Isometrics and tempo eccentrics
- Long-lever trunk and grip holds
- Rotational bracing
Conditioning & Breath
- Alactic bursts: snap without burn
- Zone 2 base: aerobic recovery capacity
- Mobility circuits: shoulders, hips, spine under load
- Breath training: nasal bias and cadence control
Weapons Track
Everything above feeds into real scythe skill:
- Stances and guards that clear the path of the blade
- Circular arcs, recovery resets, safe momentum
- Entry, cut, exit with footwork precision
- Conditioning wrists, shoulders, trunk for weapon control
“Anime lights the spark. Discipline forges the steel.”