Kendo Thoughts & Insight

Kendo Visual Slow Motion and Intuitive Sight

David Aguero — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:53:46 +0000

A recent study examined the phenomena of seeing stressful events in what seems to be at an extremely slow speed.Tests have shown that even though everything appears to be visually slowing down the eyes do not have the ability to see things at an either a slower or at an accelerated rate other than what is normal, instead the mind allows more information, more visual detail to be entered into memory.

I believe that this flood of visually detailed information allows humans to assess the situation and take appropriate steps during and following the stressful event, and that after the stressful event the mind eventually purges much of the visual details that have no useful information. Although all humans experience this type of visual detail during stressful events not everyone can act on its valuable information while it is happening. Constant kendo training gives us the ability to move and act while seeing in slow motion. An important distinction about kendo is that advanced kendo tends to rely more on intuitive sight rather than visual sight. Moreover in advanced kendo all of our years of training, using our mind and body are used to defeat the opponent the distinctions are merely used as way to describe only parts of the whole that is “the way of the sword”.

Kendo strategy, experience

David Aguero — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:02:13 +0000

I am sometimes asked about the transition from practice drills which is a controlled sequence of striking and predetermined outcome to keiko where one is not protected by the part of the mind that is full of distraction. How does one become comfortable with the freedom to attack using what little you know? The simple answer is strategy or experience. As one moves from practice drills to keiko the mind is forced to solve a random problem presented by an opponent. This problem of how and when the opponent will strike can be overwhelming even for a master. Only through strategy can this random problem be solved or what is the old axiom “the best offense is the best defense”. Strategy is really a plan of attack for which the randomness of waiting to be attacked is given back to the opponent using your own time frame and method of attack. What strategy? Strategy can simply be a series of attacks for which you gain access to an opening in the opponent’s defense, but these attacks are always tailored to the opponent’s likes and dislikes, always entering through his weaknesses. Strategy is also preplanning before a kendo match this means training, and assessing the opponent/opponents strengths and weaknesses. Strategy also encompasses experience which is really a collection of physical and mental memories of structured and random events and the best solution to handle each situation. To condense what is a very large and complex topic such as strategy one must train hard and observe how the more advanced kendo players solve the issue of strategy. Only by using strategy can one avoid making the same mistakes over and over again. There really is no single way to defeat an opponent, but strategy is the point where consistent victory is achieved.

Mushin First, Fudoshin Second

David Aguero — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 01:11:57 +0000

The first years of learning kendo is just learning how to move your body, footwork and striking. Eventually one may learn the meaning of mushin or striking without the use of consciously thinking. Mushin is reached by constant training since it involves precise striking and timing using the whole body in relation to the opponent’s movements. Mushin is expert level striking, it comes before one obtains fudoshin or the indomitable spirit, a mind that at that is not focused in anything in particular but steadfastly “in your body” as stated by Miyamoto Musashi. Fudoshin is a difficult notion to grasp and even harder to achieve since fear, doubt, and other thoughts can high jack your concentration. These notions of mushin and fudoshin like other kendo aspects are combined in varying degrees as one becomes an expert in kendo.

The search for perfection in kendo

David Aguero — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 14:16:36 +0000

Miyamoto Musashi the legendary master swordsman mentions in his book the “five rings” that one should consider how the opponent feels when in a confrontation. Indeed putting yourself in the opponent’s shoes is useful to quickly determine the strength of the opposition. This and other techniques enable one to see more with our mind and less with our eyes, since we cannot always trust what we see with our eyes. The search for perfection in swordsmanship stretches across every aspect of our lives and does not stop within the confines of our physical being. It is no secret that Miyamoto Musashi’s quest for perfection lead him to religious ideas and even some of the very origins and concepts of kendo stem from Zen Buddhism. It makes sense to view everyone as connected and that everyone experiences suffering. The purpose and goal of kendo is character development and has been since the 18th century. It is this very goal that leads me to believe that we can not dismiss the strong mind connection between ourselves and the opponent in order improve and perfect our kendo.

Kendo Ki-Ken-Tai-Itchi

David Aguero — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 16:22:29 +0000

Kendo is unique among sword arts as it requires a complete spirit, sword and the body unison when attacking. This may seem odd since one with no training in kendo can just slash and even kill an opponent with the same motion and a similar sword. Ki-Ken-Tai-Itchi is translated as “spirit, sword and the body as one” generally the meaning is the perfect cut, the perfect cut encompasses how one approaches a match. Kendo is really a systematic method of instantly defeating an opponent, it takes into account the utter fear one faces in an actual life or death match. In a life or death match our first untrained and natural response is for self preservation at all costs. One with no training in kendo will lack either the spiritual, mental willingness to attack or physical prowess to attack, and such an attack will be a random disconnected effort. To practice kendo correctly fear and doubt such as one faces in keiko must be overcome. Overcoming fear and doubt can also be called courage. It is only by casting away the fear of loss or death that one is able to win and live. The lesson of Ki-Ken-Tai-Itchi a complete spirit, mind and body attack can not be overlooked when practicing.

Suppressing the Shadows

David Aguero — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 03:48:07 +0000

“KAGE O OSAYURU TO IU KOTO” or “suppressing shadows” is a subject the legendary Miyamoto Musashi describes as determining the morale of the opponent, then checking and thwarting his every move. Once the opponent is overwhelmed and thwarted change your tactics and seize the initiative, defeating the opponent. Suppressing the opponent’s “shadow” or strategy is a useful counter strategy when confronted with a particularly excitable opponent. It is important not to delay in seizing the initiative once the opponent has been overwhelmed by your suppression. ‘Suppressing the shadows’ is a skillful strategy to know.

Why the heel of the left foot is raised in kendo

David Aguero — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 21:07:38 +0000

Kendo has developed over many hundreds of years to be as efficient in dispatching an opponent as humanly possible. One efficient method is moving the sword out its scabbard with the thumb just before an attack, it is said this move is designed to prevent the tightly fitting blade from sticking, I believe that this move also allows and gives you an extra inch time advantage for your sword to completely clear the scabbard. Yet another kendo method is keeping the heel of the left foot raised, it is said this allows for strong push with the left foot, I also believe keeping the heel of the left foot raised before stepping also gives us a fraction of a second time advantage in a forward motion, enough time advantage when both opponents measure a killing strike in fractions of a second.

Musashi and zanshin

David Aguero — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 17:21:13 +0000

Miyamoto Musashi the great master swordsman never mentions zanshin in his book “the five rings.” Musashi’s views on swordsmanship was molded by his actual battlefield experience. As with every aspect of kendo everything is connected and related to the whole experience of wielding the sword. Details and notions such as zanshin were actually integrated into strategy or “heiho.” Musashi mentions “holding the pillow down” as ensuring the opponent does not rise up and strike again by being alert even after making a decisive strike defeating the opponent. The enemy may be defeated but may not or has not given up. Not allowing the opponent to rise again has implications in keiko as well as shiai keiko. In keiko there are no judges to stop the match and one must continue to be alert defeating the opponent over and over again. In shiai keiko the same notion can be said as the opponent may not know he has been defeated and called to stop by a judge. Striking and defeating the opponent over and over until he has given up is an important lesson.

Winning in kendo by harmonzing

David Aguero — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 15:45:17 +0000

I have observed many kendo champions both on and off the court, and without a doubt there are many ways to win. Winning by being a bully or using pure technique is one way but seems limited, yet another way of winning is winning by using your mind/heart, or harmonizing with an opponent in an expansive or unlimited way. Since the body and youth fades, being reliant on pure technique being a bully always leads to eventual downfall. Anyone can be a bully or use purely technique to win, winning the way of a true warrior is through forgetting oneself, forgetting the opponent and becoming a natural harmonizing force. What does winning by harmonizing or winning by using only technique look like? Both types of winning physically look the same, yet one can sense a calm confidence and positive nature in one that wins by using the heart, harmonizing with an opponent. Both being a bully/pure technique and harmonizing with an opponent can lead to victory yet only one is the true way, and only one will always improve both in performance and in mind. Polish your heart and improve your performance by harmonizing with an opponent.

Kendo tactics and the mind

David Aguero — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 13:42:30 +0000

I find it brilliant that many of the writings of the great Japanese swordsmen such as Miyamoto Musashi are so complete and so relevant in practicing kendo today. Strategies such as the recent popular use of feinting, along with many unused methods and tactics are described in the writings of these masters. The ancient writings make it clear to me that spirit and a balance of the mind (strategy) and body (tactics) are at the heart of kendo. The notions of spirit, tactics and strategy are intuitive and yet largely undeveloped unless a conscious effort is made to understand the role each plays. As the opponent’s tactics change your mind (strategy) must change to accommodate and defeat any tactic and strategy, sometimes instantly within a kendo match.

Causing and Recognizing an Opening (Suki)

David Aguero — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 12:20:20 +0000

The general definition of suki is an “opening” in the opponents attack or defense. The dictionary defines suki as: “a weakness of the mind” or “a weakness in one’s actions or posture.” In kendo we specifically try to cause or recognize these weaknesses in our opponent. Weakness in the opponents actions or posture is easily caused through constant repetitive training. Recognizing a “weakness of the mind” is very difficult to accurately see in the opponent and takes a constant, and conscious effort to develop. Only through keiko can seeing the “weakness of the mind” in the opponent be developed and practiced, and then only by consciously working at understanding this notion. The four poisons of kendo: fear, doubt, surprise and confusion are the foundations of the weakness of the mind and directly related to the “weakness of one’s actions or posture.”

Seme, The Word for Attack

David Aguero — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 12:31:01 +0000

The definition of Seme is “attack.” There are two types of seme the visible and the invisible. The visible seme where one pressures an opponent with a sword movement or a body move. The invisible seme is a pressure applied to an opponent to strike with or without the sword pointing at the opponent. In application seme or ‘attack’ can be thought of as applying an ‘imminent attack pressure.’ Imminent attack pressure is a real pressure, a determined resolve to cut the opponent that can be felt in the mind of the opponent. The moment you decide to seme or attack you must be ready to physically attack, if you seme and there is no intention of attacking the opponent the equivalent to just stepping forward, your mind or body will not have time to react if the opponent attacks. Your mind must be resolved to cut the opponent, doing so will either force your opponent to strike or you must strike. In your mind the imminent attack pressure is showing and pointing the tip of your sword to the opponent, ready to cut the opponent in the next instant. The seme or attack is part of a strategy that must be formed before attacking, both visible and invisible seme is attacking the mind of the opponent.

The Preferred Maai

David Aguero — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 12:32:51 +0000

The space or distance between opponents in a kendo match is called maai. There are three distinct maai or distances as measured with both opponents in chudan kamae: chika-ma (close distance), issoku-itto-no-maai (one step distance), and to-ma (far distance). These defined distances are fixed and the same for both opponents. The preferred distance is the classic issoku-itto-no-maai (one step distance), in application a short persons step is shorter than a taller persons step making the one step maai or distance different for each opponent, often this distance may over lap just short, or a little longer with how close the opponent prefers to strike in one step. The preferred distance each opponent seeks to strike in one step is a constant battle to maintain. Besides the transitional maai, the preferred ma-ai does not just happen it is most often the distance both opponents nonverbally agree to strike each other in one step, or a distance forced by one of the opponents. A master swordsman will manipulate this distance to their advantage, keeping just far enough that opponent is not able to land a strike yet close enough that they are able to easily strike, never allowing the opponent to dictate what maai to use. Awareness of your opponents preferred ma-ai should never be over looked. Learning to force your opponent to accept your preferred maai while not allowing your opponent to dictate the maai is a subtle but essential lesson in kendo. Keeping track of your opponents preferred ma-ai will give you a masterful advantage to defeat your opponent.

Kendo, Winning on Another Day

David Aguero — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 11:39:08 +0000

In practicing keiko with a superior opponent, one that defeats you every single time, it is useful to allow your opponent to strike for a short time in the match. We are programed to press an attack without thinking against all comers, this does not allow any room for observing (first hand) the opponents natural preferences for attacking. Without being obvious or him noticing, allow your opponent to strike you while you attack in your normal way. Carefully watch, observe your opponents distance, timing and movements, as well as your own, keeping track of possible openings. Chances are he will attack you in the same way every time. Make a careful mental note of when and how you are defeated. After the match, and after practice assess your observations of your opponent, changing your strategy and attacking methods for that opponent. It may take sometime to discover how to defeat the superior opponent but you will win on another day.

Kendo Kata, another meaning

David Aguero — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:32:52 +0000

There are a few general explanations for the meaning of kendo kata, I think there is another meaning for why there similar kame and movements for both attacking and responding opponents and why only countering techniques are used to win. Firstly, the sometimes identical kamae movements of both (opponents) shidachi (attacking) and uchidachi (responding) are the ancient kamae responses to the attacking opponents (uchidachi) initiating kamae, each kamae cancels out the other until one attacks. Secondly, It would have been easy to incorporate a combination of winning attack movements as well as countering movements into kendo kata yet none of the winning attack striking methods are included. Emphasizing counter attacks shows the attitude of the “life giving sword” an attitude of allowing the opponent to attack and to win by another means, that can only be reached by transcending the “death dealing sword” or (destroy the opponent by any means) as described by Yagyu Munenori founder of the “no sword” school of kendo and the book “The book of the Shinkage-Ryu Martial Arts”. The same (three to five) kendo kata is practiced by the lowest ranking kendoka as well as the highest ranking sensei, the lesson and practice is clearly of the “life giving sword”.

Large strategy, Small strategy

David Aguero — Fri, 29 May 2009 12:52:41 +0000

Ancient sword masters of Japan describe strategy for war and apply the same strategies to individual combat. I have come to realize that the difference between the two strategies is time. The large strategy of war has a time frame of from minutes to hours and longer, the time frame for strategies in individual combat is literally in seconds, from one sword exchange to the next. All the large strategies of war can be used seamlessly in individual combat. Individual combat strategy and tactics are methods instantaneous in nature. Kendo kata gives us a revealing insight into ancient strategy as all the katas start from a distance five paces away from the closest distance we are able to strike. Why the five paces? The reason for starting at a far distance is for a quick assessment of the opponents physical movements, posture, mental readiness and a quick formation of a strategy. An ancient battlefield way of fighting, with a practical application, even today. Continual use and the practice of strategy is important to learn and understand.

Age and Speed in Kendo

David Aguero — Sat, 09 May 2009 13:29:07 +0000

Miyamoto Musashi the legendary master swordsman was one of the first to see the opponent in terms of strategy and to define the supporting elements of an attack based on strategy. An interesting passage in Musashi’s book “The Five Rings” states that ‘harmonizing’ or being in rhythm with the opponent is more important than a faster speed. This simple idea of speed not being the true way is fundamental to improving in kendo, a subtle, and yet powerful truth. Of course too fast or too slow is not good. How else can one reconcile the fact that as one gets older and higher in rank that one relies on the mind rather than the physical speed that manifests itself in youth. Speed is important, but must be completely tempered by the opponents movements or rhythm sensed in your mind similar to a notes of a song.

Don’t Disturb the Water, Reflect the Moon

David Aguero — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:01:24 +0000

In kendo the mind is a formless part of the body. Many of the great swordsmen of ancient Japan used different metaphors to describe the mind such as the void, a mirror, wind and water. The moon reflecting on the water is a famous metaphor for the mind of the opponent being instantly understood by your mind. This metaphor perfectly illustrates what happens when just a single thought penetrates your mind during a kendo match causing ripples on the water, instantly the image of the moon disappears. The mind that loses its concentration by a single thought is open to being struck down by an opponent. The water metaphor also illustrates how the mind looks, while remaining calm yet what happens below is unseen by your opponent until it is to late. Don’t disturb the water, reflect the moon.

A Milestone of Two Hundred Thousand Strikes

David Aguero — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 10:52:46 +0000

In kendo two hundred thousand strikes is roughly the average number of strikes one will strike in 15 years. The beginner will strike many times before the mind and body is actually able to coordinate with the footwork for a correct strike, it then becomes years before one is actually able to combine different strikes correctly. Friends, wisdom and techniques are added to your kendo training. When you reach two hundred thousand strikes one becomes acutely aware of the opponent. Free from worrying about the sword, a complete calm washes over the mind and body, strategy becomes a matter of instantly recalling what is needed. This is the non attachment to the outcome of a kendo match, concerned with only the present, it is complete awareness. Awareness does not mean that you will win all the time it only means that you are not encumbered by the trappings of a preoccupied mind. Since others may achieve the same awareness sooner it is clearly a level of kendo that can not be forced no matter how long you train. I continue to strike well past two hundred thousand strikes perfecting my kendo.

In One Timing, Timing of an Instant

David Aguero — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 15:47:33 +0000

A technique Miyamoto Musashi the great swordsman mentions in his book is the “in one timing” or the “timing of an instant”. An advanced kendo technique requiring an accurate split second assessment of the opponents mind for suki (an opening) and a complete commitment to the strike. It is striking the opponent within a “hairs breath” before he has decided to move. It is striking the opponent without the benefit of moving your body to reposition, from a motionless state. In one timing is very useful if you have mastered one particularly great strike. The opponent will be very wary of that technique, his mind will be preoccupied, having created doubt in his mind with how to stop you, giving you a good chance for victory, This timing is used by many who seem to just have one shining technique that always hits the mark. Timing of an instant is a strike that is as direct, and as skillful as possible.

Great Rivals, Great Treasures for Kendo

David Aguero — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 14:03:21 +0000

Yagyu Munenori was known to be a great rival of Miyamoto Musashi. Yagyu Munenori was the kendo teacher to the shogun, a great and gifted swordsman who was the founder of the “No Sword” school of kendo and just as famous as Musashi. Munenori was known to have favored using an early form of kendo bogu for the safe practicing of kendo. His mentor the the zen priest Takuan Soho was instrumental in forming his ideas for his kendo style and his book that he wrote “The book of the Shinkage-Ryu Martial Arts” currently known as “the life giving sword”. It is unclear how much he knew or if Musashi read Munenori’s insightful book. But it was clearly on his mind since soon after the book was released Musashi wrote his own book on kendo “a book of five rings” the most famous of all kendo books and unmatched in its wisdom. I am only speculating on what motivated Musashi to write his book but it is interesting to note that in the last chapter “the wind book” Musashi expresses his dislike by inference the teachings of Munenori and other great swordsmen? This was very provocative in an age where one wrong word would mean a duel to the death. Great rivals? YES. We are fortunate that both of these great masters decided to write these treasures of kendo books, treasures for all time.

Suited up and ready for a fight or flight response

David Aguero — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 21:09:38 +0000

Despite the fact that the kendo routine can be very predictable do not let the training lull you into a sense of mental relaxation. Search for every instance in which to improve yourself, a search for perfection in technique. The mind searches for patterns and once found searches to find and solve new patterns. This is why training can feel boring even in the face real physical demands. Ji-geiko and shiai geiko are equivalent in format and unpredictable patterns to ancient sword duels where only the winner emerged alive. There is no substitute for a real match where there are no guaranteed or predetermined winners and patterns must be solved instantly, ji-geiko or shiai geiko engages the mind as well as the fight or flight response which is very important for progress in kendo. All aspects of kendo training points to an awareness and remaining in the moment.

The Purpose of Kendo

David Aguero — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:01:49 +0000

The purpose of kendo as stated by the: All-Japan Kendo Federation:
The purpose of practicing kendo is
To mold the mind and body,
To cultivate a vigorous spirit,
And through correct and rigid training
To strive for improvement in the art of Kendo;
To hold in esteem human courtesy and honor,
To treat others with sincerity,
And to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself.

Thus will one be able:

To love ones country and society.

To contribute to the development of culture

And to promote peace and prosperity among all peoples.

In ancient Japan the katana was held sacred, even the making of a samurai sword was conducted as a religious ceremony. The samurai handled the sword and were also held to a high standard of conduct that was passed on to today’s swordsmen. The reverence for the sword as a symbol whether made of bamboo, wood or steel has not changed, even today. The high personal standards molded through correct and rigid training is evident and clearly seen in today’s kendo.

Kendo, The Crucible of Adversity

David Aguero — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:46:42 +0000

In a contest between two opponents there is a winner and a loser there is an implied acknowledgement that something is given and that something is taken away. In kendo the win implies life for the winner and that the loser dies, a terrible burden for the ego of the loser, even for the winner since when they lose they also suffer. I have lost many times. Adversity was common place in ancient Japan and a highly valued core trait of many samurai was the ability to survive adversity. The training in today’s kendo stresses nearly the same physical and mental adversity as in ancient times. The journey of life is filled with suffering, what better way to discover how to face and survive adversity than following the path of the way of the sword.

The Gaze of a Master Swordsman

David Aguero — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:29:46 +0000

There are many notions about exactly where to look while in a kendo match. Some say look at the eyes others say stare or fix your gaze on other parts of the body, or the whole body of an opponent. Myamoto Mushashi the legendary swordsman is known to advocate gazing at no where in particular but to “see naturally” this follows the precept of fudoshin or not stopping the mind on any particular thought. I have practiced gazing both ways and Musashi is of course correct. Seeing naturally, is easier said than done because it requires not only sight vision but a mind that perceives and interprets any movement, or what that movement indicates, instantly! In football it is similar to the quarterback throwing a ball to a player knowing, interpreting where that player will be, the distance and speed of how to throw that ball into the hands of a player, instantly in the mind! (the same can be said for the player running and catching the ball). It may take a long time to discover this type of seeing, yet when I am able to to see naturally, I am almost always successful in defeating my opponent. See naturally.

Kick it up a notch kendo

David Aguero — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 15:51:48 +0000

Kendo can be very routine and it is sometimes hard to get motivated even for those of us that live and breath kendo. What makes me continually motivated is that what I do and how I feel affects all those around me. I have realized that even a small doubt in the minds of your dojo members is a crushing defeat foretelling an individual or team match. It is important to ‘do’ your best, setting a positive outlook for the rest (dojo members). Encourage everyone to a higher level of personal best. It is amazing what you can achieve if everyone is encouraging you. All members in a dojo have a real stake in your success or failure and vise-versa, reflecting the cohesion of the team. This idea of supporting and encouraging all members of a group has been used since the beginning of warfare by all warriors.

Kamae - A process of cutting

David Aguero — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 02:41:34 +0000

Kamae pertains not only to a physical posture but more importantly to an inner kamae. The inner kamae is an alert mental presence and a purposeful attitude that seeks to defeat the opponent. Both the physical stance and the inner stance must not be fixed, but fluid, changing to the circumstance. The inner kamae should be of no surprise to many expert swordsmen, as the inner kamae is vital from the beginning to the end of a kendo match.

Miyamoto Musahshi: “Although the positions are divided into five, they all have the aim to cut men.” “No matter which position you take, do not think of it as a position, think only of it as a process of cutting.”

The master swordsman Noma Hiroshi (1910-1939): “the aim of all kamae is to defeat the opponent.” “As long as one continues to rely on ones sword and ones stance one is still a long way from becoming an accomplished swordsman. Ones mind must strike the mind of the opponent and with it penetrate through the opponents defense.”

It is important to study and practice this idea of the “inner kamae” as it relates closely with strategy and defeating the opponent using your mind first. No matter how fearsome or perfect the outward kamae (stance) without an inner kamae that is fluid, calm and skillful in command the outward kamae is meaningless as a position of attack, as an army without a general.

Sutemi and Zanshin, The completed cut

David Aguero — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:00:44 +0000

Sutemi and Zanshin are some of the many parts of an attack that defines kendo as separate and distinct from other sword arts from other countries. Sutemi is defined as: The state of giving (something) one’s all, prepared even to give one’s life, without thinking of the outcome. Zanshin is defined as: The body and state of mind in which, even after striking, one is alert and ready to respond instantly to a counterattack by the opponent. These two components in actual battle with a steel blade comprise a completed cut in which the mind and body of the opponent (if still alive) is given the time (seconds) to realize that he has been cut and mortally wounded by your sword. Sutemi emphasizes a deep cut through the body of the opponent, not a timid superficial cut, or a timid attack as it would be without sutemi, a complete mind, body and spirit attack. Like all Japanese martial arts, kendo in real combat is meant to be decisive and a match may be over in a matter of seconds.

The Mind is Faster than the Body

David Aguero — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 14:34:35 +0000

In kendo there is often a feeling of helplessness when being struck by an opponent. This feeling is the experience of seeing or sensing an event in your mind in an instant, with your body lagging unable to move FASTER than a split second. The reason why repetitive physical practice is essential is that the muscles used in doing a particular movement will retain the movement information and strengthen the connection path for doing that movement or technique. The result is that the body can respond markedly faster when needed. This is why most strikes can be blocked easily and naturally, the body is reacting to a visual, sensing signal, independent of the mind. It is important to note that in order to learn a sequence of movement, there must be a desire, a benefit and an understanding in your mind to retain the movement information, along with constant repetition. Only then will you you be able to learn and use a technique naturally and appropriately.

Kendo Exercise Drills and Keiko

David Aguero — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 12:09:44 +0000

Striking exercise drills are a staple in all martial arts, kendo is no different in where most often the outcome is predetermined. The compliment to the striking drills in kendo is keiko or ji geiko, a type of free sparring, where the outcome is not predetermined. You may have noticed while practicing that the two types of training differs dramatically in the physical and mental requirements. Once in keiko or ji geiko your mind takes over and body takes a back seat, this fact slows down the match somewhat. Although it is tempting to just let your body dominate and continue as in the striking drills, in keiko and ji geiko it is folly to do this, as you know. This free practice is kendo mind training and involves many issues that must be solved in an individual manner, conquering yourself. Like all practice, keiko is fundamental to your training and should be approached for the valuable skills it teaches such as direct cognition, strategy, timing, rhythm, maai and includes every aspect of kendo training. The more keiko under your belt the more calm and less distracted your mind will become, yet your body must be trained to respond instantly with the correct strike at the correct moment (mushin).

Seeing the Mind of your Opponent

David Aguero — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:00:36 +0000

In kendo it is important to see the opponents mind, and resolve, quickly. You can determine the opponents mind in the first few seconds of crossing swords, the opponent will react to your seme, or not, his presence will be strong or weak. Since the mind controls the body the opponent can not conceal his mind. Seeing the mind of the opponent means to see his intent his strategy using your intuition. Practice intuition everyday by really seeing what you are looking at and by paying attention to what your intuition is saying. By listening to your intuition you will see your opponent with your true mind not clouded with your ego, do not be distracted by superficial movement of your opponent but sense his mind. Seeing the opponents mind (strategy) happens in an instant, then quickly disappears as quickly as it is seen. However short the insight may be you will be able to strike at his mind giving you a good chance of victory.

Evidence of Character Development

David Aguero — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 18:00:34 +0000

I have made it part of my training to review kendo matches from Japan. I am always amazed by how the contestants exercise a great degree of self control and how they respect each other. Since ancient times the samurai were expected to show a great amount of self control, and to set an example of how to live life and treat people. The famous swordsman Yagyu Munenori kendo teacher to the Shogun took this idea further explaining that there are two types of kendo the death-dealing sword and the life-giving sword. The difference between the two is that one does not give the opponent any room to attack while the life giving sword allows the opponent to use his technique and defeats the opponent by another means. Munenori goes on to say that in order to reach the life-giving sword you must transcend the death-dealing sword. It is clearly the goal of kendo to have a life-giving sword attitude while in a kendo match. This shows you can win without being a bully. In spite of the fact that many people in kendo say that sport kendo in Japan is all about focusing on winning kendo matches, a fact I believe was always the case since ancient times. Character development is the core goal of kendo. I believe that character development and the life-giving sword are one in the same and should not be over looked.

Mokuso, deep breathing for the samurai

David Aguero — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 14:14:32 +0000

Mokuso is defined as: The act of composing one’s breath, posture mind and spirit while in the seiza position. In kendo the mokuso exercise has a greater significance than at first glance. Mokuso is performed in a span of two to three deep breaths with the eyes slightly open so that one is aware of the surroundings, hearing yourself breath and focusing on your deep breathing. The act of breathing deeply infuses your blood with extra oxygen and has a cleansing, calming effect. Momentarily your awareness is drawn inward. It is no coincidence that the mokuso is very short, the short time allows for quick preparation and of composing oneself for battle. The three deep breaths with eyes slightly open can be done at anytime you have a rest period. Mokuso is not a true meditation, but is tailored to have many of the benefits.

Learning the rhythm of an attack in kendo

David Aguero — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 18:57:25 +0000

Every living being has a rhythm in which they live life, some are fast paced others slow paced. Rhythm in a attack is no different. The dictionary has a few words to define rhythm: 1 the rhythm of the music beat, cadence, tempo, time, pulse, throb, swing. 2 poetic features such as rhythm meter, measure, stress, accent, cadence. 3 the rhythm of daily life pattern, flow, tempo. When you find yourself blocking an attack most of the time it is because you do not sense the oppenents rhythm and are caught off guard. It is possible to merely step out of the way of an attack just by knowing the rhythm of an opponent. Sense your own rhythm and adjust your attack to the oppenents rhythm or changing your rhythm as it suits the situation.

Kendo strategy and infinite adaptations

David Aguero — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 18:38:17 +0000

Beginners are aware that all you need to win a match is to constantly attack. What they do not realize is this is just one of many strategies. Higher ranking kendoka will devise a different strategy to defeat you based on past matches. Talented kendoka can devise strategies on the fly, adapting and changing infinitely to the situation of the match. The level of devising strategies on the fly is clearly what true champions are able bring to a match.

The desire to win transformed into virtue

David Aguero — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:33:16 +0000

I have often been puzzled by the seemingly contradiction of trying to rid oneself of the desire to win in order to obtain mushin, and how do you win without the intense desire to win? Mushin and Fudoshin are both a Buddhist, Zen tradition. The most famous zen master was the priest Takuan Soho, notable for his great wisdom and his famous followers. Takuan states in his writings that “without desire, nothing can be achieved” and “If you act on the basis of the unwavering right-mind, the energy of desire is transformed into the right energy. It is no longer called desire, it is named gi. GI is virtue.” gi means duty. Takuan goes on to say “If you shun desire and become like a rock or a piece of wood you can do nothing. With the help of the energy of desire one can transform desire (yoku) into no desire (mu-yoku). This is the true way.” Takuan’s words explain the samurai notion of the desire to win based on gi and not on greed or selfishness (material riches, or fame).

The kendo three methods of killing and four poisons

David Aguero — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:14:35 +0000

The kendo three methods of killing are: kill the sword (ken-o-korosu) meaning to move the sword off center, kill the waza (waza-o-korosu) meaning to spoil the opponents waza, and counter with your own waza, kill the spirit (ki-o-korosu) using seme to overwhelm the opponent. I believe there is a connection between the three methods of killing and the four poisons in kendo referred to as: fear, doubt, surprise and confusion. Using any of the three methods of killing instantly produces one or more of the poisons of kendo in your opponents mind giving you a good chance of victory.

Kendo Mind Training

David Aguero — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 17:38:30 +0000

There is a saying in kendo that physical training and training the mind are like two wheels of a cart. For me the purpose of ji geiko (free practice/sparing) is to experience mind training such as strategy and other intuitive aspects not easily taught or understood in physical exercises. It is through ji geiko that many of the teachings of the sensei and self discovery are understood and transmitted. It is ji geiko practice that allows all that you have learned physically to be crystalized along with teaching the mind to engage an opponent in a real match. Take every advantage while practicing ji geiko to stretch your mind and sensing the difference in each opponent at that moment in time. Ji geiko is one of two aspects in kendo where the outcome is not predetermined, the other being shiai keiko (tournament match) where the emphasis is to win the match. Because mind training is different from any other exercise using a simple attack forgetting the opponents mind or reaction is a mistake and will cause you to lose, the same can be said for shiai keiko. The significance of mind training can not be overlooked in ji geiko, always embracing the right spirit of learning and respect since winning is not the goal in ji gieko.

Beyond Footwork, advantages otherwise missed

David Aguero — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 13:10:20 +0000

The great sword master Miyamoto Musashi advocated using a natural step type of footwork. It is likely that Musashi could strike from any position and any distance as if walking through a park. Once basic footwork is mastered strive to attack from any position or from any distance without the thought of jumping or sliding your feet. Because footwork is the underpinning of an attack, it must be done without the thought of how to bridge a distance, great kendo footwork is done in a seemingly natural manner, complimenting your motion of attack. Kendo is an art that must be practiced regularly, great footwork gives you advantages otherwise missed.

The Four Poisons of Kendo

David Aguero — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 11:19:24 +0000

Everyone who follows the path of the way of the sword faces the four poisons of fear, doubt, surprise and confusion. All of the poisons are the products of the false mind, the realm of the ego. Because the poisons are products of the false mind they will always be present the only way to rid yourself temporarily of the poisons is with awareness. Realize that the fear and the doubt exist only in your false mind, dismiss your ego as a product of the false mind so that you can see your opponent with your minds eye and will not be surprised or confused. Telling your self that you are stronger, better, faster than your opponent is also a product of the false mind. It is important in kendo training to pay special attention to these poisons and to be aware that they are from the false mind.

Taking the initiative in kendo

David Aguero — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 21:15:34 +0000

There is more than one way to take the initiative and forestalling in kendo. The dictionary defines initiative as: The power or opportunity to act or take charge before others do: we have lost the initiative and allowed our opponents to dictate the subject. In his book the Book of Five Rings the master swordsman Miyamoto Musashi states there are three ways to forestall the opponent or take the initiative 1. Set the opponent up and attack first with an overwhelming spirited attack, called Ken Sen No Sen 2. Draw in the opponent to attack with the guise of a suki, slowness or fatigue then quickly and strongly counter attacking, called Tai Sen No Sen 3. Swift counter attack at the same time the opponent attacks, called Tai Tai no Sen. We all know these techniques, how interesting they are as a contrast of initiative, forestalling and superb strategy. Taking the initiative is one of the most important strategies in kendo giving you the suki or opening, and timing of your choosing. Using the initiative allows a chance for a quick victory.

What? In kendo I don’t get to kill the opponent?

David Aguero — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 10:47:29 +0000

As absurd as it sounds there are many martial artists that feel kendo has no relevancy since no real harm can come to yourself or to an opponent that loses. In today’s world there is no martial art that can say the end result is that you or your opponent will be killed at the end of a match. All martial arts practice mock killing, even the police and the military practice in the same way. Like the gun and live ammunition the live sword can not be used to practice striking people, so a simulated sword made of bamboo called a shinai is used. In ancient times even the wooden sword when used freely in kendo was to lethal resulting in serious injury even death! The sword and the gun are both killing instruments. a person trained in killing with a gun cannot kill without a gun, and so it is with the sword. What about the sword as means for self defense? Of course the core question is still about whether you have the killing weapon (gun, sword, knife etc.) or not. Our laws and common sense keep us from carrying these weapons around easily. Gone are the days of killing with a sword, yet the real sword is no less lethal in the hands of a person trained in the way of the sword just as someone trained in killing with with a rifle. Besides today’s semantics, for those of us that care, kendo remains directly linked to the samurai, in strategy, sensibilities, and self control.

Kendo Character Development and the Sword

David Aguero — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:01:43 +0000

“discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the katana” Development of character is the stated goal of kendo. What is the character and sword connection? I think the connection is both simple and complex. The simple connection is that You become a better human being but another aspect is that your state of mind and your character affects the effectiveness of your kendo. With kendo training the character is changed. The obvious character developing aspect is extreme hard training that molds a quick responses and the ability to function well past exhaustion, a strong spirit. Without character development of a pure heart and clear mind higher levels of kendo expertise is not possible. Character development past the teen years doesn’t stop after kendo practice. The more analogies, and integration you make with kendo techniques and every day events and situations the more your kendo will improve. The reason the legendary Miyamoto Mushashi and other masters were great artists, poets and staunchly religous is that the creative talents and search for the deeper meaning of life resulted in great personal improvements in their kendo. The body is limited but the mind is infinite, kendo to has no limits as far as improving yourself and greater insights into kendo techniques ancient or new, methods and meaning.

Kendo Kata, Big waza striking

David Aguero — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 12:19:54 +0000

It is not surprising that many of the old techniques are lost either because they are not legal to practice in modern kendo. Legends ring with stories many schools of specializing in particular styles of kendo. Kendo kata is a collective memory of how to do some of the best kendo techniques known. So, why practice doing big (waza) motions when striking in kata and daily practice and not small motion striking exclusively? I think it is without a doubt that small (waza) motion striking existed in ancient times. Practicing both big and small waza gives us the option and a striking range to choose from of how hard to strike with armor or without armor. Small waza is also practiced in kendo kata, in ‘Ropponme’ or kata number six is a small kote waza out of place with the big waza in the rest of the kendo kata. For me kendo kata can be directly used in sport kendo because the techniques have been battle tested over the centuries. The key is the context in which to use each technique, this has been lost over the years, many do not know how to use them choosing to stick with what they know. Hidden in the kendo kata is a wealth of information and wisdom, all aspects of the kata no matter how small has a reason, context and history we just need to understand the meanings and to use them. Kendo kata techniques are not museum pieces of old kendo but battle tested, death causing techniques worthy of rediscovery. Kendo kata is the bridge for the old kendo and sport kendo.

Watching Kendo Training, Mitori-geiko

David Aguero — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:22:05 +0000

The definition of mitori-geiko is: observing the practice of another, learning his or her good points and reflecting and improving upon one’s own kendo. Many years ago our kendo practices at our dojo were very relaxed and not strenuous. Sometimes one of my senseis would sit quietly on the side just watching the keiko. On one occasion I asked him if he was tired, his response was simple but stuck with me all these years. He said there are two kinds of kendo: ‘doing kendo and watching kendo (mitori-geiko)’. I have come to embrace this idea as essential to kendo training. It is a scientific fact that while watching a sport in which you are trained in doing the neuro and muscular pathways involved in doing that activity are reinforced. Watching also strengthens the visual and sensing portions of practicing kendo. Nuanced techniques can be seen and understood easier just by watching kendo. Thanks to my old sensei many years ago I have incorporated this type of passive kendo or mitori-geiko along with my physical training.

Beating a Faster Opponent in Kendo

David Aguero — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 12:43:43 +0000

As I grow older day by day it becomes increasingly apparent that what I perceive as fast movement in a younger opponent is a normal speed for that age and my speed is normal for my age. How then is it possible to be faster than a younger person? Every action or movement contains a beginning and an end, every person has a natural rhythm that is unique to that person. Through mental and physical training and using your natural rhythm, attack in between the movements of your opponent beating or finishing the rhythm of your opponent. Always remaining just slightly off rhythm of your opponent, more precisely predicting the beginning or ending of any action or movement a fraction of a second before or after the action is launched or completed. Your strike will not be sucessfull by relying on eye sight completely, instead see with your minds eye, sensing the next strike, cycle of rhythm. It is very important to sense your opponents state of mind, hesitant or determined adapt accordingly and attack precisely crushing their rhythm.

Sport Kendo is Not All Sport

David Aguero — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 15:53:32 +0000

I have a great interest in understanding the methods and wisdom of the great swordsmen of Japan and using that wisdom and knowledge to perfect my kendo.

It is my thought that kendo as it is practiced today is not just a sport and not a pale reflection of what was kenjutsu. I’m sure this is contrary to current thinking in describing sport kendo. We all know of Miyamoto Musashi and his great duel with Sasaki Kojiro. The duel was decisively won by Musashi with a simple wooden boat oar. Granted, Musashi’s skill was unmatched, but killing with a boat oar? Why? Clearly Musashi was a man who thought outside of the box, a master who did not need a steel blade to destroy his opponent. I do not dismiss his opponents great skill but Musashi could have killed his opponent with a broom stick. Musashi and many other masters put more emphasis in the mind and body rather than what the actual sword was made of. In sport kendo today we also put more emphasis on the mind and body mechanics rather than dwelling on the bamboo nature of our sword. I have come to realize and understand that all the methods of strategy and all of the teachings of the masters are and can be directly translated to be used in today’s sport kendo. In fact the transition between a live blade to a wooden sword and bamboo sword allows the freedom to experience directly the masters wisdom, we only need to have the courage to use the teachings. Still there are many differences the obvious with a real sword it was a life or death match, there was no room for error or even practice, a point system, and the permitted hitting areas. Given the potential for creative insight along with the study of kata, sport kendo can be a great way for cultivating a mind that is laser sharp.

Kendo Winning and Losing, Life or Death

David Aguero — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 03:01:16 +0000

In kendo like all sports alot to emphasis is placed on whose the better kendo player, who wins or who loses to whom. I think that the deeper meaning of kendo is whether you approach it as a real life or death sword match. If you are concerned about the outcome and the outcome is that you lose (you die), it is very hard to continue, the let down is tremendous, you mourn over the death of yourself. But if you see that competition as a battle in which you conquer yourself, it makes it easy to let go of life, if you lose (die) with no attachment to life, with no attachment to the outcome. Focused on the task at hand, unconcerned with the future or the past.

Fudoshin vs Mushin - Flowing and intuitive mind

David Aguero — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 13:49:22 +0000

Fudoshin is translated as: immovable heart or immovable mind and stems from the Japanese Buddhist deity: Fudo Myoo destroyer of delusion (attachment). Mushin is a Zen Buddhist expression meaning: mind of no mind. Fudoshin means to have a calm mind an indomitable spirit, flowing not focused on anything in particular, not attached to any physical aspects or mental thoughts, in the midst of calamity this is an ego-less state of mind, free of delusion, free of worrying about winning or losing, a mind not moved by distractions (attachment to any particular thought, emotion or physical aspect.) Mushin is also the same state of mind but it encompasses the physical aspect of not worrying about what technique to use, responding to any opening without conscious effort (no mind), a clear mind. Mushin is purely an intuitive response obtained by rigorous training to an opening in the opponents defense, attacking without hesitation, it is the minds eye that instantly and without thinking sees the correct moment and method of attack, this is the mind of no mind. Fudoshin and Mushin are not lofty, super human powers that only masters experience but experiences we all have had from time to time. Champions and masters are able to sustain fudoshin and mushin consistently.

Ma-ai a study of space and time

David Aguero — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 11:30:14 +0000

The translation of maai is: space. The definition of Maai: Proper distancing or timing with respect to one’s partner in a kendo match. In kendo there are three distance catagories: Chikama or close distance, Issoku itto no maai or one step distance and toma or far distance. Issoku Itto no maai or one step distance is the preferred distance because you can see the opponents whole body easily. Toma distance is the generally to far to strike from and few kendoka are able to hit from toma in one step.

With practice you will find your comfort hitting distance which may be the same or different for your oppenents. Maai is not a static distance it is always changing from moment to moment, often it is a transition from far to close and back again. Maintaining a maai position is an advanced level kendo so it takes time to develop. Practice maai so that it is second nature and not a conscious effort to dominate your opponent by keeping just out of reach of your opponents strikes yet within easy reach of your strikes. Another dimension of maai is to control “space.” Controlling Space around you is very important when fighting multiple opponents, keeping the space to your advantage. Controlling Space also infers the ability to read and control time (reaction distance from opponent) time in the fractions of a second it takes an opponent to strike from what ever distance (maai) he is at any given moment. A faster opponent will travel the same maai striking distance faster than a slow opponent covering the same maai striking distance. Adjust for slower and faster opponents, avoiding the faster opponents maai striking distance until you are ready to strike and or shorten your kokoro no maai when in striking distance.

Kokoro no maai is the term used to describe a distance in which both opponents can easily strike from, yet the opponent can not strike because of an awareness lapse. The term kokoro means heart or spirit, in this context describes an opponent that has a spirit at rest or sleeping. An awareness lapse can be used to your advantage (giving you time and suki) sensing the opponents state of mind, sensing the awareness or lack of awareness of your opponent.

Suki - Creating an opening

David Aguero — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 15:14:16 +0000

Learning kendo is far more nuanced for the people who practice the way of the sword than for people that do not. Suki translated means an “an opening between objects.” In kendo suki is an integral part of training, many exercises are purposed to take advantage of an opening in the defense of an opponent. To create an opening or seeing/sensing an opening is to distract an opponent momentarily, counter strike in the midst of an opponents attack, strike before the opponent is ready to strike or after a strike. It is important to see these exercises as glimpses to what an opening looks like using your mind (third eye). It is only through hard training, internalizing, and sensing suki, only then you can use it to your advantage.

Suhari - Finding your own path

David Aguero — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 10:41:10 +0000

I have come to understand only now that becoming a better kendo player means to be creative and to find your own techniques.

Over the years, I have sensed that it is necessary to find your own path in kendo, I came across a Japanese word for it Suhari.

Suhari: a natural progression of skill in Kendo. Su is the level wherein the student takes everything taught as sacred and in violable. Ha is the level at which a kendoist begins to add their own understanding to what he learned before. A kendoka has reached ri level when he takes what he has learned, what he has come to know himself and creates his own unique path in the world of kendo.
Some say suhari is for very high ranking kendo sensei only, but this is very myopic. I believe suhari has a wider meaning of encompassing creative thought and advanced level thinking something not restricted by rank.

It is essential to be aware of this natural progression in order to make your kendo better.