Class : Niman
Instructor : Master Iosaf Palladeshi
Partner : Master Boaz
Niman is known as many things. Form six. The moderation form. The diplomat’s form. The way of the Rancor.
Niman takes from all previous forms, aside from Makashi. It is intended to adapt your fighting style to the situation at hand, not dedicating to any one style or way of combat.
The blade and foot work of Niman is non-chalant and loose. It is perfect for those who do not have the time to dedicate to the form, and potent for those who do.
Niman High-Guard
Zone One
Blade in front of head, held in both hands, non dominant hand in loose grip. Slant blade back at a 45 degree angle, shoulders square, right foot back and knees bent in a relaxed fashion.
Attack – Bring blade downward towards the head.
Defense – Least effort possible, raising the blade ina perpendicular line, step asside, or redirect the blade with an opposing slash.
Niman Mid Guard
Zone Two, Three, and Four.
Right arm, shoulder and side. Left arm, shoulder and side. And the back.
Right leg back and slightly away from the front, holding the saber with the right hand only, pointed back and away from the enemy. Left arm wrapped across the front of the body, towards the right side, as if it could be holding a second saber.
Niman Low Guard
Zone five and six.
Right and left legs.
Hold the blade in front, pointed to the ground, steep angle towards the left. Right foot forward, knees slightly bent. Both hands on the saber.