A wooden practice sword is commonly referred to as a "bokken" in Japanese martial arts. The term "bokken" translates to "wooden sword" in English. Bokken are used for training purposes in various martial arts disciplines, including kendo, aikido, kenjutsu, and others.
A bokken is designed to mimic the shape and weight distribution of a traditional sword, such as a katana. It is typically made from solid wood, like oak or hickory, and crafted to provide a safe and durable training tool. Bokken are used to practice strikes, blocks, and other techniques, allowing practitioners to develop proper form, timing, and discipline while reducing the risk of injury compared to using a metal sword.
The use of a bokken allows martial artists to train and simulate sword techniques while emphasizing control, accuracy, and the principles of their respective martial arts styles. Bokken are an essential tool in honing skills and understanding the dynamics of sword-based martial arts.