blisters from sword practice

[rogue2257]

I always seem to give myself a blood blister on my supporting hand when I practice with my bokken or suburito. Anyone else have this problem, or have any suggestions for treating the issue?

[sensei8]

My Dai-Soke's favorite saying while we're training with the bokken was...

"Lots of blisters - too strong grip, incorrect!

 

Single blister - imbalanced grip, incorrect!

 

No blisters - lack of effort, incorrect!"

You could use some anticeptic cream, TCP or just salt water on the blisters, so that you don't get an infection. I wouldn't recommend the use of powder to lessen blisters because the powder can cause you to lose grip/contact with the bokken. But, you will just have to harden up your hands to stop it [blisters] in the future. Imho, the best way to harden up is that you continue on with what you're doing. Shugyo: Suck it up!

I don't normally recommend any finish on the wood other than oil. You're less prone to blisters with just the plain wood. The shape and colour of the sword should be pleasing to the eye, the grip should feel smooth and free of stickiness which will cause blisters. The grip should also be large enough in the hand so that the fingers don't touch the palm. A badly sized handle can cause excessive cramping in the hands and a poor pattern of callous formation on the palm. Is the bokken you have of a proper weight for you?

And yes, always refer any questions/concerns back to your Sensei. If the blisters continue and your self-doctoring isn't working, then by all means, go see a doctor asap!

Hopefully this helps you some.