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Recent Posts
Module 4 - Lesson 3: Improving Ki-Ken-Tai-Icchi: A Guide to Synchronizing Small Strikes and Footwork
Want reliable Ki‑Ken‑Tai‑Icchi with small Men? I recommend focusing on straightening your right knee at fumikomi and using the solar‑plexus small‑strike drill to sync sword, step, and center—sharpened my timing.
Essential Mechanics: Transitioning to the Compact Kendo Strike
I sharpened my timing and power after compressing the big men into a compact strike, keep your centre, high elbows, chest-level wind-up and a snapping grip-to-solar-plexus finish; indispensable for serious jigeiko practice.
Continue reading "Essential Mechanics: Transitioning to the Compact Kendo Strike"
Lesson Notes: May 18, 2026 - Sword Control in Kiri-Kaeshi
Good footwork changes the quality of everything that follows. I want to share this because it gives you practical points for improving timing, distance, and cleaner striking in daily practice.
Continue reading "Lesson Notes: May 18, 2026 - Sword Control in Kiri-Kaeshi"
Module 4: Bridging the Gap - From Beginner to Intermediate
The way you use your hands can make your kendo feel more stable, centered, and sharp. This is worth reading if you want clearer control without adding unnecessary tension.
Continue reading "Module 4: Bridging the Gap - From Beginner to Intermediate"
What a Weekend; Seminar and Tournament
This weekend's seminar and shiai reminded me to refocus on the simple, crucial goal of not getting hit—practical pointers on timing, controlling your opponent, and mindset that any serious kendoka can put to work immediately.
Lesson Notes: May 18, 2026 - Sword Control in Kiri-Kaeshi
Learn how to use the sword with less unnecessary tension and connect that control to kiri-kaeshi practice. This post explains relaxed shoulders, stable core movement, receiving footwork, and use of the shinogi so your practice becomes more precise and purposeful.
Continue reading "Lesson Notes: May 18, 2026 - Sword Control in Kiri-Kaeshi"
Module 4: Bridging the Gap - From Beginner to Intermediate
This lesson helps you connect grip, footwork, and striking into a more refined kendo practice. Learn how to keep the left hand centered, use both hands correctly, and build a smoother, sharper men strike before adding armor.
Continue reading "Module 4: Bridging the Gap - From Beginner to Intermediate"
Nihon Kendo Kata No.3 — Tsuki Nayashi Tsuki
Nihon Kendo Kata No.3 — Tsuki Nayashi Tsuki (also called Tsuki Kaeshi Tsuki). Both start in gedan, and shitachi must show mercy without losing intensity, because uchitachi can attack at any moment. This detailed breakdown covers the technique, timing, and meaning behind the kata.
Continue reading "Nihon Kendo Kata No.3 — Tsuki Nayashi Tsuki"
Advice for goals in Kendo at 56 years of age (as a re-starter)
Dear Imafuji-San, First of all thanks a lot for your great website and the may helpful Videos. Keep on that way! I kindly ask you about an personal advice
Continue reading "Advice for goals in Kendo at 56 years of age (as a re-starter)"
Bokutō vs. Shinai Grip: Are You Holding Them Differently? ⚔️
Grip your Bokutō differently from your Shinai? This question came from Ivan, one of our Patreon members. When I went back to the Dōjō to analyse my own movements, I discovered that I do change my grip — and you should too! Find out why keeping your Kensaki slightly higher makes a big difference in Kata, both for yourself and your partner.
Continue reading "Bokutō vs. Shinai Grip: Are You Holding Them Differently? ⚔️"
How to Fix Your Kote Strike so You will Strike It Properly
In this lesson, Hiro shows you what goes wrong with a kote strike and how to correct it. You'll find out the key adjustments that let you hit kote cleanly and with proper technique.
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Module 2 - Lesson 2.4: The "Wet Tenugui" Secret: Good vs. Bad Tenouchi
In this lesson, Masahiro Imafuji uses Murayama Sensei's wet tenugui demonstration to explain the difference between good and bad tenouchi. You'll see why relaxing your grip at the right moment — rather than squeezing continuously — makes your strikes sharper and more effective.
Continue reading "Module 2 - Lesson 2.4: The "Wet Tenugui" Secret: Good vs. Bad Tenouchi"
Musashi by Eiji Yoshikawa — New Translation by Alexander Bennett
A brand-new, unabridged English translation of Musashi by Eiji Yoshikawa is finally here — translated by Alexander Bennett, a kendo and budo scholar who personally knows the spirit of the sword. If you've ever wondered how Musashi's legendary journey of struggle, ego, and self-refinement connects to your own keiko, this is the book to read.
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Toyama Gakko Kenjutsu Lesson 1924 from National Film Archive of Japan
This is definitely an interesting video clip from 1924, posted by the National Film Archive of Japan. When I watched this for the first time, I thought, “Wow, this is a very interesting video.” Also, the way they train still works in modern kendo.
Continue reading "Toyama Gakko Kenjutsu Lesson 1924 from National Film Archive of Japan"
How to Find a Real Kendo Dojo Near You (Avoid Fake Dojos)
Learn how to find a legitimate kendo dojo and avoid fake martial arts schools. Discover why KendoNearMe.com helps beginners start authentic kendo training.
Continue reading "How to Find a Real Kendo Dojo Near You (Avoid Fake Dojos)"