Perhaps with all this training and work behind you, you might desire to become an instructor or maybe just a better combatant who wishes to be certified. When you attend a Traditional or Combative certification course, you will learn the scripted approach for the instruction and usage of the traditional and/or combative sword. Upon certification you will have a working knowledge enabling you to instruct if desired. Remember, there are no secrets, no mysteries: just serious hard work.

Instructor Training options:

Traditional
	Tachi-Iai (Long Sword) Kodachi-Iai (Short Sword)
Combative
	Kendo Chanbara In-Kenjutsu

Traditional and Combative courses are usually a one to five-day, intensive process. After the first day, one should be able to grasp the dynamics of traditional and combative sword techniques and thought but might experience difficulty passing on that same material with conviction and strong presence. Once muscle memory is started, it will be up to you to continue instilling it.

Next, you should begin to show improvement along with confidence while learning additional sword protocols and nuances. This will come about on your way to mastering the sword. When this is accomplished you are ready to be certified.

Instructors can choose to study only the traditional aspect, only the combative aspect or they can decide to learn both traditional and combative.

Note from Shihan Abbott: I cannot stress the importance of the applicant being ready in both mind and body, especially for the combative program. The combative program is a physical and demanding course.