Lightsaber forms in real life

In Star Wars, there are seven primary styles of lightsaber combat. These forms are based on principles and therefore can be applied beyond lightsabers. In fact, much of what is said about these forms have been applied to our real-world combat.

Prelude: lightsaber physics

In order to understand the connection to real weapons, one needs to understand how lightsabers work in the context of a fight. First, while there is no mass in the blade, there is a sensation of weight as the concentration of energy is being directed. When lightsabers clash, they are attracted to each other and therefore stick. Percussive forces occur just as with real weapons in that there is bounce when striking lightsaber resistant materials such as beskar.

Form I: Shii Cho

This form focuses on the disarm and is the simplest of the forms. This emphasis on simplicity means that the closest real-world equivalent, one could look to the codified military training texts and to what can be termed common fencing, while not detailed directly, many sources address the flaws of what is common as is the case amongst the texts connected to La Verdadera Destreza and the Fellowship of Liechtenaur.

Form II: Makashi

This form is directly inspired by classical fencing as it was presented by Sir Christopher Lee's performance as Count Dooku. The principles, techniques, and stances are almost a one-to-one translation of classical fencing. In particular, this form aims to be linear, precise, and works with the bind.

Form III: Soresu

This form is defined by a focus on passive defence via close tight movements of the lightsaber. The core of it is to conserve one's own energy and to tire the opponent and to only strike if it is completely safe. This compares well to many systems including that of Fiore, George Silver, and Aikiken. The opening stance can be seen in various forms in Tai Chi and in Fiore.

Form IV: Ataru

This form is defined by its acrobatics using many body-void counters and is often enhanced by the Force. It also incorporates numerous kicks. Acrobatics are seen in various forms of Shaolin Kung Fu and in Indian Gatka. Body-void counters are seen in many rapier systems, especially Saviolo, and in some Wudang Kung Fu styles.

Form V: Djem So

Djem So is about overpowering one's opponent and counter attacks. Djem So also emphasizes keeping the initiative, often using the bind. In many ways, it is what most two-handed sword systems relate to.

Form VI: Niman

This form is considered a "jack of all trades" style and heavily uses Force powers. This use of the Force could equate to many grabs and grapples found in many styles of swordsmanship.

Form VII: Juyo and Vapaad

Juyo is about aggression and unpredictability. Vapaad is the variant which uses the opponent's aggression against them. Control is another principle and can mean to use the bind. IN a way, it is almost like Medieval and Renaissance German swordsmanship.