Last 2 weeks, Someya Sensei came to our Dojo and taught us the tip of hitting Men. He told us that you should pull up the left hand, in order to bring the tip of the Shinai down, to hit the opponent Men more precisely and sharply.
Someya Sensei
After practice, one of students in our Dojo told me that it is different from Ariga Sensei’s way. He always tells us that we should stretch both hands. However Someya Sensei pointed her that she needs to bend her left hand a little bit. So she was confused.
Sometimes, this happens. Depends on the Sensei, the tip is different.
When I was asked, I have no idea what I should answer. So, I was confused about it the entire weekend.
In Kendo, our goal is to strike a point on the opponent. How do we do that? Our attack should be made to a target area with KIKENTAI no Icchi (i.e. spirit, sword and body as one). However, each person is different, physically and their habits are also different, so each tip should be different for each individual. Therefore, one advice may fit very well for me, but not for her. While we listen to our Sensei’s words, and practice as Sensei told us, we need to consider our own way. It is called “Syu-Ha-Ri”.
We can not find tips easily. But that is the way we can enjoy our life.
that’s my sensei! hahahahaha!