The Chassé for Strengthening the Fumikomi – A Tribute to John Yamamoto Sensei

This article has a twofold purpose.  It describes a ballet technique, known as the chassé, which can serve as an exercise to strengthen (and develop) one’s fumikomi in kendo. 

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Plyometrics for Speed and Strength Development in Kendo

The producer of Bokushingu’s Kendo TV kindly introduced me to plyometrics several years ago.  I had wanted to increase the speed and strength in my footwork and koshi

Ways to Relax Tight Shoulders (肩に力を抜いて!)

Some fellow members at the dojo where I practice have asked about ways to relax tight shoulder muscles.  What follows is my journey in this area and ways I have explored

Healing Kendo (癒しの剣道) by Nakamura Sensei – Forward and Part 1

This is an English translation of the Forward and Part 1 of a seven-part article by 

Ways to Check and Improve Your Posture for Kamae and Well-Being

Posture is an important ingredient of a strong and beautiful kamae – which, in turn, is a prerequisite for beautiful kendo [Kenshi247_Kamae].  Indeed, a number of well-known

Body Maintenance for Kendo – Deep-Tissue Self-Massage Therapy

When I was younger, I did not appreciate the value of stretching, warming up or massage therapy.  Now I do.  My muscles may remain tight for a day or more after a