I’m a student of Bando (Burmese arts) and the Black Panther system within it have a lot of focus swords, knives, cutting and slicing, evasive and proactive techniques. For years before one picks up the bladed weapon we focus and train with a quarter staff. It’s establishes synchronized hands and movements, building the required muscle memory to effectively use a single or dual blade. Escrima / kali much the same, different tools similar approach. Learn the stick to master the blade.