10/01/2009 Kendo Practice Diary

Hello. This is Asuka.

Today, two female Kenshis came to our Dojo from Soka University. So, last practice was a very big group, and we could for a group of females to do the drills.. Usually we can’t make female group, since there are only a few female in our Dojo, and they all don’t come to every practice. Yesterday was a excellent opportunity for us to practice among the females.

Prior to putting on the Men, we reviewed Suburi for 15 minutes. We practice, Sankyodo no Suburi, Fumikomi, Sankyodo no Suburi with Fumikomi.  Ariga Sensei always emphasizes on correct movements. Our body movement should synchronize with the Shinai, otherwise we can’t get Ippon. This is very basic practice. However, when I practice concentrating on every details of the swing of the Shinai and the body movement, I got tired much faster and it actually felt very good. I tried to remember everything: Is my left leg ready to kick the floor? Are my arms good angle? Do I step at the same time as Suburi? Also, I was considering how to be relaxed, as every time I was told this is the point I should pay attention to.

While Kakari Geiko

Since the SCKO tournament is coming up soon, we practiced Shiai instead of Jigieko. One team had 7 members. My team had lead over other team until Chuken. However, after 5 Shou lost, the atmosphere suddenly changed, and Fukusho and Taisho also lost… Then the team ended up losing the match. Everybody was regretful of that match. The Chuken player apologized to me many times and the Taisho kept talking about that story until he left home. After that we (the loser team) did Kakarigeiko… I was very tired…..