Historical Japanese Martial Arts (HJMA)

What is HJMA?

HJMA is the acronym for Historical Japanese Martial Arts. Like it's European counterpart, HEMA, HJMA combines historical research 0f period martial arts texts written by masters at the time with hands-on training to understand how these arts were likely applied in period — from duels, self defence situations, and battlefields. This is a very new practice. In fact, to our knowledge, we are one of three groups around the world who do this as a dedicated practice.

This is done using modern protective equipment to allow for broader targeting, as well as more dynamic and realistic sparring to inform and test our interpretations of the sources. In our group, we spar in both historical AND modern kit to inform our understanding.

What isn't HJMA?

HJMA is not a traditional system like a Ko-ryū (古流), nor is it a part of modern kendo, iaido, modern JSA (Japanese Sword Arts), and not a form of "sport fencing". It also usually isn’t about competitions like tournaments either.

Instead, it’s a methodical exploration of how people most likely really fought and trained in late 16th century Japan based on extant sources written by masters from the time. Every cut, theory, stance, and movement we study is based on surviving records, and research of the military and literary culture of the time. If it is not centred deliberately on or informed by primary sources from the time and not properly pressure tested through sparring, then it isn't HJMA.

Why do we do HJMA?

We practise HJMA to bridge history and experience, to get as close as we can to having a practical and theoretical understanding of these techniques in the way those at the time did. Whether it is martial arts or crafts, pressure testing our knowledge and theories is crucial for us. Our current interpretations that we hold as conclusive have undergone years of revision, study, and pressure testing before they have gotten to where they are.

As working from primary documents and extant examples is always our first preference, this makes HJMA as an invaluable practice to us. By looking at this purely from an academic and historical perspective, we can begin to develop a very likely puzzle of what it was like at this time. While the work of HJMA is still and will always be interpretational, it has given us a rich and fascinating window in the martial arts of this time.

Can I train in HJMA?

Of course! Whatever your martial arts background, experienced or brand new beginner, you are always welcome to give it a try and see what you think. Our group has a probation option where you can try out up to 3 sessions to give it a try and see how you go. Come with a fun, genuine, open-minded and safe attitude, and you will find there is plenty to get involved in.

Disclaimer (age limit)
There is a strict age limit of 16 and above for HJMA due to our public liability insurance with the Queensland Living History Federation (QLHF). All members are trained to be able to fight within QLHF safety guidelines and also open HJMA targetting.

Is this separate to the living history aspect?

No. While HJMA is certainly a big part of what we do, we are still first and foremost a living history group. This means that to take part in the HJMA is to also take part in the living history as we wish to have these two things as mutually inclusive. We support all of our members with this process.