Suited up and ready for a fight or flight response
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.