Advice Part 2: (lol)
I've always heard how emphasized form was in swordsmanship. I learned why today. Practicing with the Greatsword again, I made a wide swing to the left, once again, to the right, spin, another right and lost my footing causing my back to bend in quite an uncomfortable position. Thus, I realized that form is important, in my case, footing. You probably want to make sure you have firm footing in the ground--someone should be able to knock you full force with a blade and you shouldn't tip over. Plant your feet firmly, and rehearse your steps as if you were learning to dance.
Here is a video I like to reference to for form.
Haidong Gumdo Vid
Form includes everything from your posture to how you swing the blade.
Much like knowing the character you main in Brawl, it's also necessary to know your sword. Sometimes for a day of training, I just meditate with it to get the feel. (Not to sound spooky, hah)
Once again, hope this helps.