Suijutsu: The Ancient Art Of Samurai Swimming

March 5, 2024Swim Training, Swimming Habits

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‍The transformation of swimming from a survival skill to an art form is a fascinating journey. Among the numerous cultures that have contributed to this evolution, the Japanese stand out with their unique martial art of combative swimming called Suijutsu. This martial discipline, practiced by the revered samurai, has evolved from a battlefield necessity to a form of recreation, health maintenance, and discipline for the body and mind.

The Origin of Suijutsu

The genesis of Suijutsu dates back to the era when Japan was ruled by samurai warriors. Given Japan’s geographical position, surrounded by water, the ability to swim was not just an advantage — it was a necessity, especially for the samurai. This led to the development of Suijutsu, a martial art that taught warriors to swim while wearing armor and using weapons, to sneak up on enemies, and even to fire arrows while being nearly submerged.

The Samurai and Swimming

The samurai, or bushi, found swimming an essential part of their training. Given Japan’s geographic structure, surrounded by water, battles often occurred near or in bodies of water. This demanded the samurai to be skilled swimmers, capable of engaging opponents in water. The extent of these skills varied across clans, depending on the characteristics of the water bodies they were near.

Techniques in Suijutsu

There were several techniques in Suijutsu, tailored to various scenarios. For instance, some techniques focused on underwater swimming, while others had an emphasis on navigating through fast-moving rapids. In addition, Suijutsu also incorporated techniques for grappling in water.

The Art of Combative Swimming

Suijutsu is more than just swimming. It is a strategic combination of swimming and combat techniques aimed at gaining an edge in battle scenarios involving water. The samurai were trained to swim with heavy armor, hold onto a rope, board a boat, fire an arrow, fight with swords, and even swim against a current — all while being in the water.

Preserving the Art of Suijutsu

With the decline in the need for martial combat, Suijutsu has understandably seen a decrease in its practice. However, its cultural significance has not been forgotten. A small cohort of teachers and practitioners strive to keep this art alive, not only as a form of exercise but also as a cultural heritage of Japan.

Modern-day Suijutsu

In modern times, Suijutsu is primarily studied for recreational purposes, health benefits, and as a form of discipline for the mind and body. However, the essence of its martial origins is still preserved by its practitioners.

Nihon Eiho: The Classical Swimming Art of Samurai

Nihon Eiho, or the classical Japanese swimming, is a martial art derived from over a hundred Suijutsu techniques by the samurai warrior clans. The Japanese Swimming Federation, recognizing the importance of preserving this tradition, has authorized twelve schools of Nihon Eiho to pass on the water tradition of the samurai.

The Benefits of Suijutsu Training

Suijutsu training offers significant advantages even for ordinary individuals. The resistance created by water during training leads to greater fat loss and strength improvement compared to land-based training. Moreover, the water acts as a cushion, reducing stress on joints and preventing muscle wear and tear.

The Significance of Suijutsu in Japanese Culture

In Japan, swimming is not merely an exercise or a sport. It is a way of life, deeply ingrained in their tradition and history. The preservation of Suijutsu serves as a testament to their high regard for their history and the skills of their ancestors.

Suijutsu in the Modern World

In the modern world, some of the strokes of Nihon Eiho, a derivative of Suijutsu, are being used. For instance, Koshiki-eiho, the act of swimming sideways, is used by the American Red Cross to train lifeguards. This skill is also used by the US Navy during combat situations.

Suijutsu and SwimMirror

At SwimMirror, we believe in the benefits of understanding and mastering swimming techniques. While we don’t teach Suijutsu, our product, the SwimMirror, can be an invaluable tool for those practicing this ancient art. By providing real-time, visual feedback on swimming techniques, SwimMirror assists in improving swimming performance, regardless of the style being practiced.

Closing Thoughts

Suijutsu is a fascinating blend of swimming and martial arts, reflecting the dynamism and adaptability of the samurai. Although not widely practiced today, its legacy continues to influence modern swimming techniques and serves as a symbol of Japan’s rich cultural heritage. For those interested in exploring unique swimming styles or delving into the world of martial arts, Suijutsu offers a captivating journey into an ancient tradition.

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