Sequential Breakdown of the Small Men-Uchi (小さい面打ち)

This article delves into the sequential breakdown of the small men-uchi (small strike to the head) – also referred to as chiisai men-uchi (小さい面打ち) or a sharp, fast men (鋭く早い面) [Ichiki_MenUchi].  Visual examples of this strike can be

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Kirikaeshi and “Large, Strong, Fast, Light (大強速軽)” – from a Seminar by Kamei Sensei

Here’s a brief summary of pointers from a portion of a Southern Californian Kendo Federation (SCKF) seminar given by Kamei Toru (Hanshi 8 dan) back in 2012 at Torrance, California in this 12:16 min video [Kamei Kiri-Kaeshi].  It is on the topic of kiri-kaeshi (切り返し)

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

Relative Grip Strengths – Between the Hands and Digits (Overview)

Drawing and edamame dumbbells by Ophie and Tomoe, Jan 2020.

A lecture video by Takumi Chikamoto (Kyoshi 7th dan) [Chikamoto Lecture], forwarded to me by a sensei, prompted this article.  I found the video very informative and helpful

Resources for Beginners

I compiled a list of videos and written resources below for the beginners at the dojo where I practice and for all those new to kendo.  They cover a wide range of topics:

Healing Kendo (癒しの剣道) by Nakamura Sensei – Overview

This is a translation of an enlightening article by Nakamura Sensei, 7th Dan – on seme and many of its related components.  This includes the mechanics of the kamae, setup,