The Spirit And The Practice: Samurai Fighting Arts:

Archery was often considered more prestigious than swordsmanship. Samurai were master horse-archers, capable of hitting targets at full gallop.

Practice was never just "exercise." It was a meditative process. Samurai Fighting Arts: The Spirit and the Practice

While the katana was the "soul of the samurai," their training was remarkably diverse. A well-rounded warrior practiced Bugei Juhappan (the 18 martial arts), which included: Samurai Fighting Arts: The Spirit and the Practice