Video on Seme & Centre

Happy New Year to all!

Wow, another year gone... they seem to pass so quickly now.

No kendo since December due to loads of uni assignment deadlines :( Therefore, i've posted an interesting youtube clip which Katsuya Sensei of Wakaba dojo sent us on an email a few days ago.

The link if of a kids seminar in Tokyo, he also included a short description on what is being taught. It's times like this I wish I could speak some of the lingo!

Hokkaido Kendo Seminar 2010

Katsuya Sensei's notes:

"This is Kendo Kid's seminar by Tokyo police, Nishikawa (3 time champ), Uchimura (twice champ, wearing Men) and Asano (Tokyo police chief instructor).

Unfortunately there are no subtitles. Basically they explain 'Seme' and 'centre'.

Nishikawa (first teacher) explains that the tall guy always wins if the attack happens at the same time. But if one of them starts from far distance and steps in first, they will win in most cases.

Asano (second sensei) explains 'centre', how important it is and how it works. Basically, he is suggesting use minimum shift on a Shinai for Kote and own body position for Do."

Interesting Article on Loss of Form

An interesting article on Kenshi247 which rang a bell.

I also experience occasional inexplicable loss of form (a slump), usually after a break in practice - sometimes as short as a week. I know this effect is purely psychological and I can be my worst enemy at times. Is this a personality trait which i'll never rid myself of?

Cool Quote

I recently read this quote which was posted on Andy Fisher's (British squad member) blog:

‎"Notice everything! Look at what is happening in Keiko, when you have a good opponent, or even if you are stood waiting, look at your Senpai and Sensei, try and figure out what you like about their movements. Do they have a 'Tokui' Waza? you have to notice them, and then in your own Keiko try to imitate. This will lead you towards finding your own way..."

Tanaka Takeshi Sensei (2006 WKC 2nd Place).

Sumi Sensei POV

I'm just posting this vid because its wicked.

Its the closest i'll ever be to becoming hachidan!