This article is for the beginners at the dojo who are learning fumikomi and, of course, anyone who might benefit from it (including myself). It is inspired by the teachings of both Komeda Toshiro (Kyoshi 8 dan) during his recent “AUSKF 8 Dan Tour” visit to Continue reading
Fumikomi
Striking with the Legs and Near-Instant Hikitsuke (引き付け) for Sharp Strikes – Yamauchi Sensei
This article expands on an earlier article “Synchronizing the Strike with the hikitsuke (引き付け) [KendoNotes_SynchHikitsuke]. It is based on the teachings of Yamauchi Masayuki (Kyoshi 8 Dan) 山内 Continue reading
Synchronizing the Strike with the Hikitsuke (引き付け)
This article is intended for those, like me, who may find it difficult to strike, with power and consistency, the small men-uchi (小さい面打ち as demonstrated at 0:15 of [RemaKendo SmallMenUchi]). It covers: some Background explaining the impetus of this Continue reading
Forward Heel Action for the “Stomp” in Fumikomi
There are probably multiple ways to teach and learn how the forward foot contacts the floor in the “stomp” portion of the fumikomi. That part of the fumikomi where the forward foot forcefully hits the floor. For Continue reading
Hikitsuke (the Quick Follow-up of the Rear Foot) in Fumikomi – Some Pointers and Videos
This article highlights some pointers and videos on a fundamental component of fumikomi known as hikitsuke (引付) – courtesy of a number of sensei’s. An experimental Continue reading
Walking as if Kissing the Earth – for a Shinkansen-like Fumikomi and Seme

A member of the dojo where I practice at asked me to teach her a particular form of fumikomi and seme that I sometimes use. Where my right foot and body slides forward Continue reading
The Chassé for Strengthening the Hikitsuke – 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 one’s hikitsuke (the fast follow-up of the Continue reading