Lessons

1.  Spencer Sensei:  Tsuki

There are 2 ways to hit Tsuki.

One is to go directly forward from Kamae.  Here, if you miss it, the shinai will get stuck on the opponent's neck or something.

Second is to go forward but raise your shinai a little, then come down.

The second method helps because when you miss that Tsuki, you can still hit the top of the opponent's Do (the front part) and then still attack.

2.  Yuji Sensei:  Going forward

After hitting Men, charge forward as if you're gonna kill the opponent.

(In other words, don't be timid)

3.  Yamaguchi Sensei:  Do not take your eyes off the opponent

After hitting Men, don't just keep going forward.  Once the opponent disappears from your hindsight, you came too far.  Don't take your eyes off the opponent.

4.  Yamaguchi Sensei:  Kakari-Geiko

Good Motodachis don't just open up the openings.  They pressure the Kenshi with Seme, so that the Kenshi reacts to it or they react to the Kenshi's Seme, so the Kenshi can find the openings and hit it.  Don't just open up obviously.

5.  Kinno Sensei:  Always attack

When facing the opponent and you see the opponent coming in, don't just stick out your shinai trying to block the opponent.  It is not a wrong method, but rather, try to find the openings and attack.  There's always openings.

6.  Spencer Sensei:  Step combinations

I said that many beginners and intermediates (like myself) try to attack from the one-step distance.  But, he said it's predictable and easy to block.  Try to use little steps to create Seme and then attack.  You can adjust the speed and tempo of your steps to change the timings (so to become unpredictable).  Thus, you gotta work on your Suri-ashi.

"Hidari Jodan...?...?....?"

Ah!!  So embarrassing!!!

During the Kata session after Wed. practice, Yamaguchi Sensei was pointing out somethings and everyone was circled around Yamaguchi Sensei.  He called me out to show something that he was talking about.  He told me to do "Hidari Jodan."

But...

All the sudden, my mind went "blank."

I was like......uh........doing Hatso......and doing all these other things........

(For those who don't know what "Hidari Jodan" is, it's the form that Uchidachi starts with in the Kata #1)

I finally got it, but...ah....so embarrassing!!!

Yuji Sensei: "Go all in!"

(For the past few months, many things happened.  I got a job, and I've been so busy.  But, due to the great demand from the reader(s) of this blog---namely, Ray, I decided to write this blog again...Thanks, Ray!)

I haven't been practicing Kendo for like a month because I got a job in LA that kept me really busy.  Commute between Irvine and LA for 7 days a week really sucks.  This morning, I got a text message from Yuji Sensei (actually, he probably sent it last night, but I was knocked out by the fatigue from working overtime, which was between 3 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Tues.).  He said that I should at least come practice Kata since I'm registered for the Shinsa (Test) w/in a few weeks.  Plus, he said, Lui was asking me if I'm really busy or just being lazy.

I went to the Wed. practice today, and I felt so weired to get back to Kendo again.  Only 1 month of absence, but it felt like a long long time to me.

Did a Geiko with Lui.  He improved a lot.  Now, his feet were really moving, and his motions really big.  I could foresee how he'll fly around me like a butterfly and sting me like a bee within a few years.  Bennett also improved a lot as well.  It's always great to see the Kohais doing well.

During the Geiko with Ray, we both went for Men.  His Men went in but I missed my Men.  Yuji Sensei was observing this, and he called me up and said:

"If you're gonna go for Men, go all in.  If you go for Men with uncertainty and your opponent goes all in, you're bound to lose.  You already lost if you don't have that confidence.  Also, don't just stop right before you hit.  If you're gonna go for it, go all the way in!"

For some reason, I always see my character or my state of mind during Kendo.  And, what Yuji Sensei said was so true of me.  I felt so strange that Yuji Sensei was telling me as if he was talking about my character.  When facing uncertainty (that's always how it is in Kendo...when facing the opponent...because you never know what's gonna happen) with desire to win (something important at stake), my natural reaction is to become too careful or be half-hearted in going forward (because always too afraid).  Yup, I'm a coward.  But, with what little I have, I want to start again and try to go forward.  Isn't that what being brave is all about?

I had a similar talk with my boss a few weeks ago.  She said that, "many attorneys analyze way too much, so they cannot get anything done.  They just think too much and are too afraid that they don't wanna do anything.  I've seen so many attorneys like that.  You just have to move forward and learn as you go."  She had the right to say this because she is totally opposite.  At that moment, it was funny how she spoke like many Senseis at Kendo.  I told her about that, and she wanted her son (4 yrs old) to do Kendo.

Jae (Choi) once wrote in his Kendo blog that martial art reflects what's in you.  That was true for me.  Then, now that I know what I lack (or what needs to be fixed), it's my job to do what is right.  How to do it?  What I believe to be the Costa Mesa Dojo's one of the few mottos:  "Work on your basics."  Go back to the basics, do it slowly, do it right, do it consistently and continuously.

"Basically," get back to Kendo again.

Did I over analyze it this time again?  :d

 

A Really Good Lesson from Yamaguchi Sensei - Part II

On Wed., I tried to keep practice that Sen-sen-no-sen concept.  I did a Geiko with another member of our dojo (I forgot his name), but this time, it was really difficult to catch his timing.

Usually, I can see the opponent moving back and forth, and I attack right when he moves forward (that is the Sen-sen-no-sen concept that I know).  But, he had either very small steps (thus I could not perceive his movement) or had movement timing that is very difficult to catch.  Either way, I tried to attack few times but all my attacks were blocked (which means he could see my attack and was able to block).

After that, I did a Geiko with Yamaguchi Sensei.  (As people who did Geiko with him would know) After a few minutes, I was already exhausted and could not even breathe well.  But, I tried to keep it up thinking that this is one of those very precious moment when I can practice with Yamaguchi Sensei (especially now that he is not well after the operation).

After the practice, I went to Yamaguchi Sensei and asked him how was my Kendo today.  I told him that I looked up the concept of the three Sen (Mitsu-no-sen): Sen-sen-no-sen, Sen, and Go-no-sen.  (He said that the middle one is actually called Sen-zen-no-sen)

I told him that it worked fine in some instances but it didn't work well today b/c I couldn't get the timing right.  He told me to keep practice it and I'll get used to it.  He told me to just focus on Sen-sen-no-sen now.  He said that If I do not have Sen-sen-no-sen, I cannot other things.

He also said that in doing Geiko with me today, I was pretty good except that I attacked little too early or little too late.  

So, I must keep working on Sen-sen-no-sen. 

Result of the Lesson from Yamaguchi Sensei

On Monday, indeed, Yuji Sensei DID have Uchikoi and Kakari-Geiko.

I was all up for it.

But, since our dojo's ventilation is really bad, it felt like practicing Kendo in a sauna room.

I got so exhausted so easily...

During the Geikos, I tried to remember what Yamaguchi Sensei told me yesterday, and especially tried to work on my Sen-sen-no-sen timing.

After few Geikos, I went up to Yuji Sensei for comments and feedbacks.

He pointed out that my Kamae and attack are not straight when I'm tired.

Other than that, he said, "Not bad..."

That was such a big complement for me.

A Really Good Lesson from Yamaguchi Sensei

Last Sunday at Nisei Week Tournament, Yamaguchi Sensei gave us (the Costa Mesa Dojo Team) some good advices.  Basically, we need more Kakari-Geiko.  (Probably to develop the sense of timing, preciseness and aggressiveness)  Also, he mentioned that doing a proper Kendo (with proper basics) is much more important than getting points in tournaments.

*He told us to watch Spencer Sensei's Kendo.

After that, I personally went to Yamaguchi Sensei and asked him how I could improve my Kendo.

He gave me some important points:

1.  Kamae

He asked me why do you hold your Kamae the way we do?  Is it because everyone tells you so? He said that we hold Kamae because to protect ourselves.  (Thus, if we hold the Kamae correctly, we should be able to protect ourselves).

2.  The Concept of Seme

He said that I should be able to use Seme.  He asked me what Seme was, so I answered that it's the attacking feeling.  He said that I should attack BEFORE the opponent attacks me.  He said that I should ALWAYS "Attack First" so that the opponent cannot attack me.  (in other words, Offense is the best Defense) So I asked, "Always attack first?"  Then he said that there are different chances to attack.

  2a.  Sen-sen-no-sen

      He said that when the opponent slightly moves forward, you can attack (even BEFORE the opponent does anything but when he just steps forward a little).  In fact, this is one of the very first lesson I've learned from Yamaguchi Sensei long long time ago.  In Kamae, when the opponent steps forward a little bit, I attack with all my body.  I found it to be working really well, and people thought I was really fast.  But in reality, it was just that I found that good chance to attack (right at the moment they're stepping forward and they're immovable for that split second).

      When I explained this to him, he said that this is the first level.  I told him that I used this many times during Geiko, but I started to face opponents who do not move at all.  When we begin our Geiko, some opponents just stood there with very strong Kamae and never moved.  So, I gradually began to forget that Sen-sen-no-sen practices.

  2b.   Examining the Opponent with Shinai

      He said that after the first level (I think I should built upon each level and NOT take one and discard the other level), then I should examine the opponent's mind by tapping the opponent's Shinai with mine.  But, I do not believe that he meant by mindlessly tapping the opponent's Shinai but slowly touching (or pressing or going around) his Shinai to examine and see the opening.  Then, attack upon seeing the opening.  Or, I should start to create opening.

  2c.   Feeling the Attack

      He said that I should start feeling (foretelling) what the opponent will do.  Yuji Sensei mentioned this too long time ago (when I asked him when should I attack).  Yamaguchi Sensei said that I can only gain this by many practices and experiences.

3.  Practice

He said that in Shiyai, it is natural to have that feeling of wanting to win.  However, he said that I should suppress it, or else, I cannot perform the true Kendo (I start lose focus, form, timing, etc.).  He said that I can thwart this strong urge to win and keep myself by many experiences of Shiyai.

Also, my body should naturally obtain all the above concepts by many practices.  He said that some people over-analyze things (like myself).  It's all too difficult to explain in words but I should know it by practices.  Also, no matter how much I know in knowledge, if I cannot do it, it's useless.  He told me to not to think too much.  (He also said that since I have good basics, I should work on the above concepts during practices -- yea!).

4.  Watch

(In relation to the above Seme concept) He said to watch his Kendo.  Watch Spencer Sensei and Yuji Sensei's Kendo.  Watch how they do it and when they do it.  He said that when he does Geiko with people, he sees if people can figure out the chances to attack or not.  He said that I'm sometimes little slow.

After I talked to Yamaguchi Sensei, I was so motivated to practice Kendo harder.

Real Name

From now on, I've decided to use real name for everyone I mention.

Playing against Jodan

On Wed practice,

UG taught me how to play against Jodan.

He said that I should go for Tsuki in the beginning to create that fear and confusion to the opponent.  Then, give the Tsuki seme then right when the opponent lowers his hands to block THEN go for Men.

He said, "make your opponent to guess what you're gonna do."

Good point.

How to do Kiri-kaeshi

On Monday practice,

SHRKU sensei said that in doing Kiri-kaeshi, I should use by "shoulders" to swing, not just arms.

If I use my arms, it'll only make me more tired and nothing would help.

I should use both my shoulders and make big motions, so that it helps me to use my full body.

Lesson from Nikkei Games

I played against Ryan H., and I lost in the first round.

But, I felt good because I got the first Kote point and that Ryan was a good opponent.

(His technique and Kendo was admirable)

Lesson I learned is that I should work on my stamina because, by the middle of the 3 minute session, I lost focus and I lost right at that moment.

(I got the first Kote point, then he got my Kote point.  We both were so tired...then I thought, 'shoot....we're gonna go into extension'...  right then, he came in with Seme then got my Do when I  raised my hands to block it)

Lesson from Torrance Dojo

I went to Torrance Dojo last week and learned some valuable lessons:

1.  Chris Y. Sensei said that, in playing against opponent, don't just try to go in and hit whatever I wanna hit.  Constantly look for the openings.  In Kamae, if I constantly think that 'I wanna go for Men...' or 'I'm gonna go for Kote now...' then I try it and miss it, there's no point in attack.

He said that constantly look for openings then attack.  There are openings when the opponent is about to attack OR right after he attacks.

2.  While doing Keiko against Chris Y. Sensei, I tried to go for his Kote from under (meaning my Shinai went below his hands and attack Kote).  I also did that to attack Men.  He said that I should first watch my opponent and determine whether such attack is appropriate or not.

He said that there are 2 types of players (in Kendo, one's called "Inside" and the other is called "Outside" --- meaning "Inside" is the ones that have lower Kamae so the 'going under' attack would not work where as the "Outside" is the ones that have higher Kamae, so 'going under' attack would work).  I should observe that first, then attack accordingly.

3.  While playing against Louis, he had extremely fast Men when we were closing in for 1 step attack distance.  He told me that I raise my Shinai too early and too big so that he could see me coming in and easily block me.  Louis' Men would come in straight and give that snap at the end.  This is probably what SPC told me as well.  I should work on this.

Suri-ashi Lesson

SPC said not to cross my feet during Suri-ashi because, when I cross my left foot with the right foot, that how much longer for me to attack.

So, in Suri-ashi, left foot should "follow" the right foot from right behind.

Importance of Stretching and Nutrition

Last Monday, I had a cramp on my right leg during the practice, so I fell on the floor and everyone was all concerned about me. (so embarrassing....!!!)

Lesson learned is that I should always stretch and eat properly and drink enough water.
(Especially now that I'm no longer young)

I realized that, ever since I signed up to try out for the SCKF team try-out with my age, Kendo became no longer just a hobby but a serious commitment for me. I should take it very seriously and do whatever it takes to do it right (including taking care of my body to maintain the optimal condition for the practice).

But, when UG made us to do continuous Kiri-Kaeshi and Men AND SPC made me to do Kiri-Kaeshi while he's standing still, I was very happy because it means that they're taking me serious now. Yea!!!

3 Ways to Counter Kote

SPC also taught me 3 ways to counter Kote:

1. Ai-Kote-Men
When the opponent comes for Kote, I go Kote-Men as soon as I "feel" him coming.

2. Kote-Kaeshi-Men (? I don't know if this is the right name)
When the opponent comes for Kote, I block his Kote by twisting my Shinai in front of me, then attack Men. It is important to do that twist in "front" of my body.
(wow...this is really hard to explain, so I should try to draw it or something...)

3. ..... (don't know the name of this technique. I'll find out)
When the opponent's Kote comes, I parry it by raising my Shinai 45 degree upward to the right.
It's like one of that technique in Kata (I forget which number).

Suburi Basics 2

SPC taught me this many times, but it all starts to make sense to me now:

When doing Suburi, put the emphasis on the strike, meaning that I should squeeze at the point of impact (imagining that I'm hitting Men). Thus, the strike should nicely cut Men (and not just repeatitive swings --- which is pointless practice). Fewer Suburi with the right emphasis on that squeeze is better than many Suburi w/out the correct form (this is useless).

SPC said that that squeeze will help me in striking the valid strike in real keiko. Since, in keiko, we never really swing big, that quick and firm squeeze at the end will give that solid and valid strike.

Suburi Basics

UG told me that when I do Suburi, I should not make it in 2 separate motions but one overall motion.

When I do Suburi, (1) I raise up my Shinai, (2) then swing for Men.
For many people including myself, this one Suburi actually consists of two motions.

But, this one Suburi should consist of one overall, natural, smooth, whole motion. Not two.

Against a Tight Opponent

I was talking to SPC after the practice.
I said that it's hard to go through some opponent b/c they're so tight after their attacks.
(So, I can hardly pass through them)

SPC said that I should try to go through them.

Also, he gave me another tip on playing against those tight opponent.
I lead them to open up by ... (ah, so hard to explain in words) ...
pressing them. When you press them (their shinai), their reaction is to come right back at it.
Then, you attack the openings.

Stomping

(I don't know the words for this technique)

My stomping doesn't seem right.

When I stomp and the floor does make a big sound, then my heal hurts.

But, when I try to do the proper stomping, the floor does not make the big sound.

I know that I should jump toward the opponent as if I'm gonna step on his toe.
That should give my body's weight shift and should give the natural stomping.

But, for some reason it's not happening. I should work on this.

Small Kote-Men

During the basic practice yesterday,
I was doing Ai-Kote-Men against KN sensei.
(Ai-Kote-Men is a Waza where the opponent attack my Kote, but I attack his Kote-Men right at the same time)

To do that, I had to do the small Kote-Men.
KN sensei said that my Kote-Men should use my shoulders and be natural (and smooth).
(It's really hard to describe in words. I'll get back on this topic later. I'll probably have to draw or something)

From now on, I'm gonna have to work on this. Also, watch KN sensei's Kote-Men carefully.

Things to work on

1. Stepping back right before the attack.
UG mentioned that my left foot steps back right before the opponent attack.
It must be something that I'm not even aware of. I should watch out for it next time.

2. More Zanshin.
NG said that after the strike, we should have more Zanshin and go faster.
He said that's why UG makes us to do so many Suri-ashi (for the Zanshin after the attack).
After the strike, I probably used up half of my energy that it's really hard to bring myself to do faster Zanshin. But, I should work on this.

3. Breaking the fear.
During the keiko w/ KN sensei, he got me a good Tsuki. After that, I was so afraid that I couldn't go forward. All my attacks stopped in the middle. I should break that fear.

Being a Good Senpai

I think CMKD did well today. Alex, Bennette, Louie and Matsumoto fought hard in younger Kyu group. (I didn't get to watch any adult group)

Seeing other dojos (especially Torrance, OCB, Cypress, etc.), I felt that I must be a good senpai to be a good example for our dojo's young kenshis.

I'm not good enough. I should try hard to be a good example for them and help them to improve in proper Kendo.

Advice from SPC

I talked to SPC at the SCKF Tournament.

I asked him what I should do to fix my habit of blocking. He said that blocking is not good. He suggested few methods:
1. When I practice against little kids, I know for sure that I can beat him because they're slower and I can see them completely (I can see all the moves and their whole body b/c they're so small). If I can see them coming to attack, then try my counter-attack Wazas. Also, practice my Seme and Waza on them. THEN, take that to a higher level opponents. I should be able to see them as well.

2. He also said that, first, I should try to see them coming. If I see them then attack, it's already too late. I must 'feel' them coming. (UG mentioned this many times, too) I really didn't know what this meant. But, I had few instances when I could 'feel' that the opponent was going to attack (certain target too). I don't know how to explain this, but I could just 'feel' it. (I'll try to work on it and explain further once I get the grasp of it)
Once I practice 'seeing' them coming in, then try to 'feel' them coming in. He said that the ultimate goal is to feel them coming in even before they attack (and do my counter-attack).

3. I told him that when I tried to keep my Kamae (and not block), the tip of my Kamae often slips off from the opponent's Do and the opponent hits a valid Men. He said that if I'm not keeping a straight Kamae, it's my fault. I should not try to force blocking the opponent by holding a strong Kamae (hard to explain but I often try to point at Tsuki to make the opponent's Men invalid), but my Kamae should be in the center and aim the tip to his Tsuki.

Go CMKD!!!

This Sunday is SCKF Championship.

Go CMKD!!!

Still Apart

After the Shiyai keiko, UG commented that my feet are still too far apart. He said that I should bring the left foot up closer.

Considering that today was Shiyai keiko, it probably affected my mind so that I was more concentrating on getting points than focusing on the proper Kendo.

I should keep this in mind.

Block the Tendency to Block - Part 2

During the Circle Shiyai,
Me and Mr. Yang were the first two to play.
I started w/ a loud Kiyai, but as soon as he came in,
I raised both my arms up to block, then he hit my Kote.
It ended really quick.

I should really work on that tendency to block.

Circle Shiyai

After the shiyai keiko, UG had us all gather around as a circle, then 2 people played for a point in the middle. As soon as the winner gets the point, another person can jump in and attack the winnder right away. (and losers would stay out)

In the beginning, people were kinda hesistant to go in, but people started to get the feel of it and started to jump in as soon as the loser was determined. We did it for 3 times.

It was really fun!

Mind for Shiyai

This Sunday is SCKF tournament, so we did Shiyai keiko today.
After observing my shiyai keiko, Richard made a comment. He said that he saw some good valid points, but since I stopped in the middle of the attack, I didn't get the points.

It was a good feed back because I constantly forget that I become timid during the shiyai.
When there's points at stake, my mind gets affected and it affects my body and technique. I stop in the middle of the attack to quickly block the opponent's counter attack, etc.
I should free my mind.

Being natural, neutral, and free mind, I believe that that is a mind for kendo.
(Point is, I should loosen up and relax...and go for it....as UG always said...)

Block the Tendency to Block

Today, while doing keiko w/ Mr. Yang, he got my Kote many times.

When he came to attack Men, I had this tendency to raise my arms up to block it.

So, Mr. Yang came to attack as if he was hitting my Men but slightly turning to the side thus hitting the exact spot where my Kote would be (after raising my arms up to block).

Once he got my Kote like that, I was reluctant to raise my arms to block his attack.

Then, he attacked my Men (thus hitting the valid points).

Good strategy and good Waza for him.

As for me, I should stop that tendency to block.
(But attack or do something...)

Tsuba-Zeriyai Like a Standing Wall

During today's keiko w/ NG, I hit his Men (but missed), then, as I ran into him,
I almost was knocked down by his Tsuba-Zeriyai (standing straight w/ Shinai right in front of the face).

From my own (limited) experience, when I run into the opponent after the strike, I could easily bounce back and would do straight Tsuba-Zeriyai w/ the opponent (standing face to face). Then, slowly move back to Kamae.

However, I was shocked by how firm and strong NG stood and he stood straight doing Tsuba-Zeriyai. Then, as he slowly pushed me back, I couldn't stop but had to move back no matter how hard I tried to push him away. It was like trying to push against a moving wall (that's slowly coming toward me).

After the practice, I asked NG how he does Tsuba-Zeriyai. He said that he puts his weight on the lower body, bending his legs a little. I tried to follow that but couldn't quite grasp it.

I'll try to practice it and learn more from him, then post my progress as I go.

p.s. I mispelled Tsuba-Zeriyai, too! I thought it was Tsuba-Zeri. I'll correct it from now on.

Importance of Basics

(This posting is for my own reference and for the readers who skip the comments -- just in case)

SPC mentioned in comment that the best thing for improvement is to focus on the basics:
1. Suri-ashi
2. Suburi
3. Uchikomi (being paired up w/ Motodachi and practicing the basics)

Those of us who have been in CMKD long enough will realize that we emphasize a lot on the basics. I think that is important for Kendo and every aspects of our lives as well.

*I've been misspelling Suri-ashi all this time?! ah...so embarassing...hahaha. I'll correct it from here on. ;p

Improvement

Today, SPC, UG, KN, and SHRKU sensei all showed positive impression about my kendo.
I could imply that my kendo has improved a little bit.
(though many things to correct)

I had a little chat w/ Mr. Yang after the practice.
He said that I practice hard these days and that I have been improving (and few of my problems have gotten better). That comment and the impression I got from the senseis were all good encouragement to me.

What I learned so far is that:
1. Attend practice consistently . Do practice at home everyday.
2. Give the best while practicing.
3. Be humble, Suppress your frustration and take the advice and learn it.
4. Constantly monitor your Kendo by asking people. Be open to any comments and advice, and work on it. Don't just go home after the practice. There's so many things that I learned from by simply seeking comments about my Kendo after the practice.
5. Do it right, do it slow, do it many. I have life time to learn Kendo.
6. Points are not important (except on the day of the shiyai). Good, Correct, Proper Kendo is very important.

Lastly... very fortunate to be a CMKD member. I'm very proud to have learned Kendo here and met all the senseis, senpais (and senpais who later became my senseis), and all the kenshis who are equal and below my rank.
(I know that this is how all kenshis feel about their dojo as well)

Going Forward

I felt pretty good during today's practice.
(Maybe, partly, because I skipped the first warm-ups and basic practices)

I thought that my major thing to correct was to going forward with proper form and force.
So, I tried to remember what UG taught me on Monday.
(Attack as if I'm gonna step on the opponent's toe)
When I did that, my attack became much solider and easier.

1. In Kamae, put equal balance on both feet.
HSKW sensei mentioned that, in Kamae, I put too much weight on my right leg (foot), so when I attack, my whole body leans forward and I can't move any further after just single attack. He said that my whole weight is forward (thus kinda leaning forward) then right before I attack, my body pulls back a little, then I attack, so the opponent can see that I'm coming in.

2. "Body" as one.

In reply to the above comment (which was translated by UG), I explained that I do the above because I put all my weight forward and stiffen my left leg as accumulating power for the spring to jump forward. UG said Ki-Ken-Tai (Spirit-Sword-Body) must go forward all at once. He said it's "Body" not just legs, so "don't try to use only your leg." Good point.

3. Tsuriyashi
SHRKU sensei said I should still work on my Tsuriyashi. He said smaller and faster Tsuriyashi is better. Today, during the keiko, I noticed myself hopping like a horse after the attack.
I think that smaller and faster Tsuriyashi requires much more leg muscles and workout.
My calves already have gotten huge and my thighs got bigger, too. I know this because the pair of jeans that used to fit me (it's kina narrower leg jeans) not fit very tight so I can't wear them.

4. Waza then Forward.
During the keiko w/ SHRKU sensei, he came for my Kote, so I raised both my arms and hit his Men then went backward (as if I was finishing off Tayatari-Men). SPC observed this and told me not to go backward after doing Waza. Always go forward after Waza. The only time I should go backward is after Tsuba-Zeri.

5. Relax, Don't Panic.
After observing my keiko w/ Mr. Yang, UG said that I should be more relaxed and make it more natural. He said that when I see an opening, I'm rushing into it. He told me to be natural and go forward smoothly.

6. Seeing the whole.
I had shiyai keiko w/ MGM. She got me a good Men. After the practice, we had a little discussion about what we observe during keiko. She said that I should see the whole opponent. If you see the whole opponent, then you can notice little habits and things that you can use to your advantage. For example, she said most people stand straight Kamae, but they step forward when they're about to attack. So, you can use this to your advantage (knowing that the opponent will attack now) to apply the counterattack.

7. Fast one step Men.
I had a good keiko w/ Mike Hs. W/in one step distance, he was amazingly fast and got almost all my Men. As for me, I tried couple of Seme Waza that SPC taught me. Kamae (then) Step backward and forward little to see the opening (then) step forward again as if just observing (then quickly) bring my Shinai to go under his Shinai and raise it up then attack Men. It worked once. Good Waza.

8. Solid Good Men as if Practice.
KN sensei let me hit the Men at the end of keiko w/ him. I did it all correctly w/out any pressure or anything. He said, "strike your Men just like that in keiko too." He later explained that my Men during keiko is little too shallow. I should hit it more solid.

9. Unbeatable KN sensei.
I did sam-bon (3 points) keiko w/ KN sensei.

Me: "YA!!!!!!!"

KN: (hits) Kote!!!

Me: (back to Kamae) "YA!!!!!!!!!"

KN: (hits) Men!!!

Me: (back to Kamae) YAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!~~~~"

KN: (hits) Tsuki!!

Literally, I never even got to touch him... man!!

p.s. SHRKU sensei remembered my name! ;)

Learning by Watching

About a month ago, OLSN sensei mentioned to me that I can learn Kendo by watching other people play.

Yesterday, UG asked me if I could help out at the upcoming SCKF Tournament. Later by email, I said that I could help out.

He said that it'll be a good experience if I can watch the championship part of the tournament. He said that I should study other people's Kendo and take the good habits and posture from them and use it for myself. He also said that that's how he learned how to do stuff in Kendo.

*for non-CMKD members, UG sensei is CMKD's Head Instructor.

Lesson from Louie: Do!

Louie got my Do during last WED's shiyai practice.
Honestly, his Do was really good, and I never intended to give it to him.
After I got hit, I was shocked and amazed by his swiftness and clean technique.
I thought I should learn from him, so I practiced it and used it today. Indeed, it was good.

While in Kamae, step forward quickly (keeping Kamae), then go for Do (fast).
Key here is to keep the Kamae straight so the opponent does not know that you're going for the Do.
Also, make the step very quick.

Usually, intermediate kenshi's response would be to raise their arms to block their Men (expecting you to hit their Men). Thus their Do is wide open and you can go for Do.

I did that during the keiko w/ SHRKU sensei, and I did create the opening. (But, I didn't get the valid strike on Do cuz it was not solid enough and SHRKU sensei probably saw through my mind already thus obstructing my attack.)

Thanks! Louie sensei!
*for non-CMKD members, I'm 2-Dan and 30 yrs old. Louie is like 6 Kyu? and 9 yrs old? (still in elementary school)

One Good Strike!

Today, SHRKU sensei, TKHSH sensei, UG taught me various things to improve my Kendo.
I used to take each person's advice apart, tried to work on it one by one, but soon, my body would freeze during Kamae b/c I had like several things going on in my mind.

While talking to Spammy a while ago, he said that to draw a perfect circle is not to connect 1 tiny bits of lines by drawing them one by one (thus hoping to create the perfect circle), but to draw it once (fast) then try it again and again (thus creating more smooth circle).

So, I decided to relax (as UG always tells me) and just work on my Kendo overall.
I felt much better today.

From the things that people point out, I think that I should envision myself doing a good strike.
My whole body moving forward with straight posture and having a good big and fast swing.
With that in mind, people made the following comments:

1. Tsuriyashi (small fast steps).
SHRKU sensei said that my Tsuriyashi after a strike is someone awkward. He said that I cross my feet (and indeed I was), thus I was somewhat hopping like a horse (although not too bad?). After a strike, the left foot should NEVER cross the right foot, AND do the FAST Tsuriyashi.
SHRKU sensei said that even if you have a good swing and strike, if your Tsuriyashi is bad and slow, your Kendo will not look fast.

2. Smaller Swing
TKHSH sensei said that I should work on smaller and fast strike. He said that, during keiko, he could easily block my strike b/c he sees me coming in w/ both my arms way up. He showed me how to do it, but I cannot describe it w/ words here (I'll try to illustrate later). One thing to remember is that your right hand (holding Shinai) should be in front of your forehead.
(Also, I shall add what HSKW sensei, SPC and UG taught me, which is to move from your shoulder)
I should practice this.

3. Steps
Today, I learned something from UG that answered to something I've been wondering for a long time.
1) Adjust Distance with Subtle Steps Forward.
While doing Kamae, the distance btween me and the opponent is usually too far. Then, I should step forward, thus shortening the distance (also creating Seme).

2) Pushing Forward.
UG taught me and Richard how to Push Forward when we strike. He said to "jump toward your opponent as if you're gonna step on his toe." He told us this many times before, but today, I got to really work on it w/ Richard.
Also, UG said not to jump upward but jump Forward. (He illustrated example of swinging golf - hitting upward will make the ball to go up, hitting with driver from further distance with lower but larger swing will make the ball to go far away)

3) Swing from Shoulder
UG said not to stick out my arms just forward when striking, b/c it'll make:
1) only my upper body to stick out forward and lower body to lag behind (thus sticking out my butt and my left leg behind), AND
2) my strike to be shallow.
I should move my whole body to forward and strike from my shoulder.

Ways to Improve Stamina for Kendo Practice

(This posting is in connection w/ my comment on the blog right below this)

(Ironically) Today, after the basic practice, we did several sessions of Kakari-Keiko.
I held myself pretty well, but after about 4-5 sessions (I believe--seriously, I couldn't even remember how many), I started to feel nauseated and felt like throwing up.

I held it as much as I could, but I just couldn't keep it up. So, I excused myself, took off my Men, then ran to the restroom. (While I was taking off my Men hurriedly, UG called it the last one. Man! I wanted to finish that one off, too! ;p)

When I put my head on the toilet, I had a big burb (;p), then I felt little better.
I washed my mouth, then came back to the practice.

However, after 1 keiko, I felt sick again. So, I went back to the restroom. This time, I threw up a bit. (I won't go into details) I came back, then did Keiko again. UG asked me how I was, and I said that I felt little better after throwing up.

After that, I had a good practice today.

I thought about why I threw up today. This was second time I threw up during Kendo practice.
The first time was back when I was in college, when I went to Chuo Dojo (L.A.). It was the first time in a while because I had not been practicing for a long time AND I ate right before the practice.

But this time, I've been practicing regularly.
The reason could be most likely that my daily cycle is all messed up.
I sleep very late at night (like 4 a.m.) and get up at noon or later, my body is all messed up. Plus, I eat heavily at like 2 a.m. in the morning, too.

I'm constantly tired and stressed out (from studying), and I sleep late and eat late.

All these had weaken by body.

Even with regular practice, bad daily cycle and irregular eating habit can lead to weak body, which then can lead to decreased stamina.
Solution: Regular sleep, regular meal (healthy meal), and good rest.

p.s. Man! I wonder how UG could have Kendo practice after the whole night of drinking...
I guess some people are born with healthy body. As for me, I must work on it.

Practice when...

Last WED,
while I was breathing heavily from the exhaustion after the keiko w/ TKHSH sensei,
SPC told me, "Go do keiko with [...I don't remember whom I did keiko w/ cuz I was so tired? ;p ].
Practice when you're tired."

Such a simple truth, yet something I've been ignoring for a long time...
(with all kinds of excuses...like 'I can't really give my best effort when I'm tired'...or 'I can't really learn well when I'm tired'...)

Things to practice

Ah...there's just too many...

1. Keeping the Center.
TKHSH sensei said that I should keep the center then attack.
The attack w/out the center will always fail b/c the opponent will block it.
I should constantly strive to get the center, then attack once I have it.
One thing I noticed myself doing while doing keiko w/ TKHSH sensei is that I always stop in the middle of my attack. I must go through and forward.

2. Swinging my Shinai in keiko.
I asked SPC how to do that small and fast strike.
SPC said that I should practice big swing of my shinai first (in suburi and even in the basic practices).
Then, I would be able to strike smaller and faster later.

3. Seme.
While observing my keiko w/ TKHSH sensei, SPC pointed out that I have no Seme.
He taught me one Seme:
While stepping forward with Kamae, go under the opponent's shinai then raise it up and hit Men.
It worked really well. I should work on it.
Also, w/ older senseis, maybe closer distance is fine. But, w/ younger people or same rank, I should have sufficiently further distance to impose my Seme.

4. Going Straight.
Many people pointed out that I hit everything from the side.
OSN sensei, TKHSH sensei, SPC, Richard all told me today.
My Kote, Men are all from the side.
I should hit them straight.

And finally, as always, don't forget to keep my body straight when I go in...

(hey what's up, Ray!)

Things to work on

1. Putting my whole body forward.
My upper body is still bent forward. UG said that I should go forward.
SHRKU sensei and TKHSH sensei said the same thing.
Even though I worked on sticking out my belly before I attack,
it didn't really work out right today probably because I cut the ball of my left foot.
(Thus I couldn't have that spring) -- I was limping after the attack.

2. Swinging big.
SHRKU sensei said that I should swing bigger.
I'm still wondering if that can be effective in real keiko or shiyai.
But, I should try to do that.

Shoot...only if I can practice kendo more...

Things to work on

1. Swinging my Shinai.
Last Thursday, at OCB's practice, Chris told me that my Shinai swinging is unnecessrily too big.
This didn't mean that it was bad because it was too big, but my swing had unnecessry movements in it that hindered me from striking straight. Chris said, "it's like a math. The closest distance between two points are straight line. Your swing has unnecessary movements that make your strike slow." He told me to practice in front of the mirror to hitting my Shinai straight.

UG has once taught us to bring up your Shinai right up (as if someone's pulling the string from the top) and bring it straight down.

Today, NG explained it to me further. There are two different kinds of swinging. Big swing and small swing. If you work on your big swing, it'll naturally become smaller and faster.
(I've learned this before but this matter came back as I concontrated more on details)
You can use both big and small swing, depending on the situation.

2. Slightly moving my upper body forward.
SHRKU Sensei taught me something new today (something that I've never heard of before).
In Kamae, you move your upper body very very tiny bit forward (with your hip moving forward). When he showed me this, I could hardly see anything b/c his body inside his Kendo-Gi was moving a bit forward. He said that this will naturally make your whole body to move forward thus making your right foot stomp.
This will give Seme to the opponent.

When I asked him this movement might give the opponent the impression that I'm about to attack, he said do it very small and do it very quickly.
(He said this was the reason why I lacked my Zanshin b/c I was trying to attack straight from my Kamae, thus I had hard time reaching forward --- which stopped my body in the middle of attack)

As I attack forward, swing my Shinai big.
I should work on this.

3. Opponent's sensing my Shinai.
Richard said that when I'm in Kamae, he was sensing my Shinai by tapping my Shinai. He said that my Shinai was firm and strong, but right before I attack, my Shinai would completely lose its firmness (triggering sign that that I'm about to attack). He found this recurring pattern and mentioned it to me. I should observe it more and change it (be more flexible).

More things to work on

1. Too much strength on my right hand when doing Kirikaeshi.
KN Sensei mentioned that when I do Kirikaeshi, there's too much power in my right hand, so that's why my Shinai slips off. He said that I should relax both my arms and squeeze both arms right at the impact.

2. I wabble my Shinai after striking.
TKHSH Sensei said that I should straignten my Shinai after striking and should not wabble it.

3. I raise my Shinai too high after striking.
HSKW Sensei said both my arms should extend out stright forward. He said my arms and Shinai are too high after striking.

4. Stompping
My right foot heel hurts alot. I asked SHRKU Sensei yesterday of how to do the stomping correctly. He showed me that I should do it with the ball of my foot. I discussed this w/ Richard and concluded that I should not think about it but just put my whole body into the attack.
I should practice on this cuz I think I'm doing it wrong.

Things to work on

Yesterday, I participated in shimpan seminar as a volunteer kenshi.
Of the almost 10 matches, I haven't won a single one of them, and I only got 1 point total.
(and UG said that was NOT a valid point)

There were some common critiques and advices that people have been making about my kendo, so I will summarize below:
(HSKW sensei, SHRKU sensei, TKHSH sensei, OLSN sensei, UG, SPC, the 2nd dan girl from Torrence dojo)

1. I stop in the middle of the attack. (that I have no Zanshin)
So, my attack is not complete, thus my attack is not valid.
SHRKU sensei thought that I stop right after I strike b/c I'm afraid that I might get hit.
But, he said that I should not be afraid of those (esp. during keiko) but go all the way through.

He showed me how to fix it:
From Kamae, take 2 steps forward, then hit Men, then go at least 5 steps with fast Tsuriyashi.
In doing this, bring my left leg as fast as I can, so make my Tsuriyashi fast.
UG pointed out that everything has to be smooth.
After the second step (right before striking Men), I should not stop to bring up my Shinai BUT as I take that second step and going forward, I should bring it up as I go (smoothly).
Also, bring my Shinai right down (thus tip of my Shinai making a big half circle --- NOT pulling the Shinai forward a little then bring it down).

2. My stance is still too wide.
HSKW sensei said it many times and today TKHSH sensei, too.
Close the gap, then go forward.

3. I should jump forward, NOT upward.
TKHSH sensei said that I should jump forward NOT upward when I strike Men.

4. When I hit Kote, I freeze right after I hit it (thus making not going through all the way).
UG said that I should charge into the opponent's body --- NOT just freeze thus stopping in the middle.

So, I should work on these.
Additionally, I think that I think too much. I should just do it or practice it.
Less thinking, more action. Nike was right. "Just do it"

Balance : Enjoy

Today, during the get together for our dojo,
I expressed my frustration in not improving in kendo.

MGM said, "just enjoy it."

So, I asked UG what can I do to improve my kendo.
(He first said that just keep practicing on the things we talked about)
UG said, "enjoy it."

Then I said, "but when I enjoy it, then all my bad habits come out."
So, he said, "then don't enjoy it too much."

Lesson learned: I should let myself go and be natural. The more I think about things, it'll make me even more tense, so I won't be natural. But, there's always a balance so that I shouldn't fully let go of myself but keep watch myself.

Lesson learned 2: Practice, practice...

Practice Practice

HSKW sensei pointed out that my feet are still bit wide apart in Kamae.

He said, "Practice, Practice..."

I guess that's all it takes.

I read this phrase from this kendo book I recently got.
"The sword is: You sharpen it with your body and cut (strike) with your mind."

Today, during a keiko with SPC, this particular Kote-Men combo validly went in.
So, he said, "Good job, [KJ]."

I felt like I had earned that comment from SPC because:
1. I went to each practice almost everyweek.
2. I got to each practice early and started the practice by leading the warm ups.
3. I tried to give my best in each practice and each session. I tried to go 2 steps when UG told us to go 1 step.
4. I hated getting exhausted but I tried to endure that moment.
5. I talked to senseis afterward for the feedbacks.
6. I asked UG for the specific feedbacks and took his comments by heart.
7. I read Spammy's blog and talked to Spammy for guidance.
8. I asked questions to YMGCH sensei and took his answer by heart.
9. I watched many kendo videos at home and in YouTube and tried to learn from them.
10. I got a book and read about kendo.
11. I constantly thought about what I can do to improve my kendo.
12. I tried to apply kendo in my real life (in studying, etc.).
13. I tried to practice suburi at home.
14. I tried to keep myself humble so that I can learn from other kenshis what to do and what not to do. I also tried to learn any good things from anybody even from beginners. I tried to supress my ego.

Doing all these resulted in that one valid strike.

Now, I'm still lacking in many things and I must do many more.
(Ex. YMGCH sensei and SPC said I won't improve just by doing 2 practices a week and should do at least 3-4; Practice suburi at home, etc.)

I guess it's a good start.

Few things to work on

Some feedback after the practice:

1. HSKW sensei said that my feet are still a bit wide apart in my Kamae. It's better than before, but still needs to be closed more.

2. UG observed my Tsuki-No-Seme-te-Men and mentioned that, although my Kamae was straight, my posture is not straight when I go for Men. So, he told me to work on keeping my posture straight when I go for Men.

(3. Additionally, after a keiko with a senpai 2-dan from Torrence dojo, she mentioned that I do not go forward enough. She said that I could get so many more points if I go forward and follow through. UG mentioned it last time, so this must be my commonly occuring problem.)

(4. TKHSH sensei mentioned that I have improved overall, but my strike is still bit shallow and my posture still not completely straight. This corresponds with what UG said today. So, I should work on this as well)

Learning by Teaching

I read from this kendo book that one's learning also comes from teaching others who are inferior than himself.

Today, during keiko sessions with Jerry and Alex, I taught them what I learned from SPC.
I told him that if the opponent crosses your comfort zone, attack. Don't wait until he comes all the way in. Make him know that he should not cross your boundary.

Amazingly, when I was doing keiko with Mr. Yang, I remembered what I taught earlier and I applied that. When Mr. Yang came in closer and closer, I attacked for his Men or Kote. His advance became much less frequent and more cautious.

Summaries

The followings are certain things (from the lessons from the past) that I worked on today:

1. Stepping in as if you're stepping on your opponent's toe.
I've learned this before from various senseis in CMKD, and SPC recently reinforced this to me.
I tried this more and more recently, and this makes sense. Really...learning doesn't happen one night (ah....YMGCH sensei, SPC, and Spammy said this too!!).
When I tried this during the basic practice (especially when we do One Step Men), I consciously try this technique and it really does feel different.
If I may have to add something, you have to feel comfortable with your opponent. I tell myself that I'm feeling comfortable with whoever's standing in front of me and that I can run into him as far as I could to step his toe. Then, I go in with my full strength.

2. One clean slate at a time (in keiko when you're exhausted).
During the Ippon-Shobu keiko with Mr. Yang today, we both had reached the point of exhaustion because both wouldn't give up. I was so drained that I just wanted to let loose my guard. However, I remembered the lesson that I that I should take it one at a time and give my best in each one of them. (Spammy, Eiga video, etc.)
So, in each of the kamae (after either of us' attack was invalid), I thought of it as a new keiko. And during the attack, I tried to give my full effort into it. I lasted longer than usual (but I still lost ---- probably because of the fear thing explained below).

Dealing with fear

After my keiko with Mr. Yang, UG made some comments on my kendo.

He said that I show fear, thus, my attack is not full but more like half-hearted (thus not powerful).
He also said that this may be the reason why my upper body moves first (because I wanna reach in).

I told him that when I attack with my full body, Mr. Yang's kamae would stick to my throat, thus I'm afraid of going in fully.

He said, "so what if you get stuck?!! get stuck then! Just go in with your full force and don't show fear!"

He was right. I am a coward.

After a couple of attempts to hit Men but getting stuck into his tsuki, I just didn't wanna go in anymore. I've lost courage to keep trying.

Ok, so, since I've admitted it, I'll shake it off.

UG told me to observe Ryan, who went all-in in each of his attack. I saw the force and the difference between my attack his Ryan's.

"...not to lose courage in the face of adversity...."
- a statement from kendo documentary on Eiga.

Laziness

I'm lazy.

The very basic thing in kendo is physical training.
After all, kendo is a physical activity, and w/out the physical training,
I might as well have just a coffee discussion about kendo.

But, I do not practice suburi at home.
I complain about lack of success without putting any required effort into it.
This shows my true nature that I'm lazy.
(thus, kendo shows your character)

YMGCH sensei said it, HSKW sensei said it, SPC said it, Spammy said it, UG said it.

I acknowledge that I should do it.

But, I still don't do it.

I'm lazy.

100 suburis a day.

Kendo mind set

I was taught to "always have forward mind" in kendo.

A few practices ago, during the keiko with SPC, he told me not to back up during keiko (refer to my blog about special lessons from SPC).

He said that 'if your opponent crosses your comfort zone, you must attack.'

So I replied, "if I know that my opponent's gonna block it, why do I even attack?"

So he asked me, "what? so if your know your opponent's gonna block it, you're not gonna attack?"

At that moment, I just accepted it as that I should always attack or have that forward mind.

Today, while reading this book about kendo, that came across my mind.
If I were to conclude on what we talked about and what I've learned today,
I would say the following:

Constantly look for openings to attack, even if you have to inevitably back up for the moment.
In that moment when you feel that you cannot move at all and you think that your attack will be ineffective, do not lose courage. You must have courage to hold your stance and attack.
Don't be afraid of losing or not making the point. But give your best to each attempt. Even though you fail to succeed. Do not give up but hold your ground and attack with proper mind and technique.

(The above is subject to change)

Some thoughts on self-learning process...

During the "Special Session by YMGCH sensei" a while ago, I expressed my frustration in learning kendo and improving myself. I told YMGCH sensei that I don't know what to do and I cannot understand clearly how to learn kendo. He first asked me for a specific question. Then, he answered that specific question. He told me to get a book a read it. He said that I should study it and be able to figure things out.

Everything seemed so vague and so foreign to me. I just wished that someone would tell me everything so clearly, so that they all make sense to me. Even if I believed that I am fortunate to have all the senseis in my dojo, I still felt like I'm not getting a clear grasp of what I'm suppose to learn.

After that, I also expressed my frustration to Spammy. Since he always explains to me very clearly, I expected him to explain everything about kendo to me very thoroughly. But, he "clearly" explained to me that learning kendo is a self-learning process which I must go through by myself.

For some time, it didn't make sense to me. Since I've been in school for so long, I thought transfer of knowledge was as simple as the teacher explaining things to his students. However, I can vaguely get the idea that it cannot be done in kendo.

Kendo is something that, even if you know with your knowledge, your body must be able to execute what you know. I've heard this before. I heard that in Greek, there are 2 different kinds of "knowledge." 1) You simply know as a knowledge; and 2) You know it by heart.

I'm sure that kendo is something that requires both your knowledge and your body's execution. Then, you cannot know kendo by simply listening to what someone tell you. You must practice it and acquire it with your mind, heart, and body.

In that sense, YMGCH sensei was right. He explained his answer to my specific question. But, he expected me to learn it and acquire it through my own training.

So, I bought a book about kendo and read it. I watched kendo videos in YouTube. Also, I decided to become more active in learning kendo at dojo by asking senseis for their advice after practice. But most of all, I must practice more. 100 suburis everyday...like HSKW sensei and SPC told me to do.

SHRKU sensei's 7th Dan

SHRKU sensei received 7th Dan.

When I did keiko today with him, his strike felt much more solid and precise.

I like doing keiko with SHRKU sensei because his kendo is proper and right.

So, when he tells me, "keep your kendo", I guess I'm not too far away from the right path.

How IS my kendo anyways? ;p

Omedeto Gozaimasu, SHRKU sensei.

Timing and all...

All these lessons...

I don't know if I can incorporate these.

SPC said that I'm not gonna fix it in few evening's practices.

Ah...is there any faster way??!!

I guess not.

I think about "Timing" a lot these days.

When UG mentioned it, it began to make sense to me. I still don't get it, but seeing the right timing and attacking it (that your body is following your thoughts)...

It's still unclear, but I must keep practicing and find out.

But, over all, doing the proper basics (what YMGCH sensei, HSKW sensei, SPC, UG, Spammy all said) is the most important thing.

Lesson from KN - Proper Seme

During the basic practice, we did Seme-te Men.

KN mentioned that my Tsuki-no Seme was not proper.

I thought it was just to move around my shinai a little then to attack Men,
but KN said that I should actually make it solid and have my tip directly aim at the opponent's Tsuki (as if I'm gonna really go for his Tsuki) even if I'm moving around to create Seme.

That made sense.

I used that to SPC during the basic practice, and SPC said that it was good.

Lessons from UG

UG observed my keiko with another kenshi.

UG gave me some feed back:

1. I drag my back foot (left foot). That's why I cannot go for the second attack when I miss the first attack. I should quickly bring it up.

2. I should go forward and don't stop it after I strike.

Lessons from SPC sensei

During the keiko with SPC, he taught me some lessons:

1. Find your own comfort zone (distance). And, if your opponent steps forward and crosses that distance, attack him. Don't let him come in to that comfort distance.
During the basic practice, 1-step Men is the best way to find that comfort distance.
If I get the right distance, after 5 years, that distance will be much further than when I started.

2. Shibari? (that quick squeeze to shinai when you strike)
(I never knew this, but this enlightened me about striking correctly)
When I strike Men, I've heard many times from other senseis that my strike is shallow.
SPC told me that I must have that quick squeeze to shinai when I strike.
He said that when we do Suburi, 1) make a big motion; and 2) practice that quick squeeze.
But, in keiko, you cannot really make a big swing of shinai because you'll never get the valid strike (the opponent will always block because it's too big).
So, you just bring it up a little, but give that quick squeeze. That squeeze will give your strike a firm and heavy strike.
But, it depends on senseis because some senseis want to see bigger strike, so you just adjust to whoever you're doing keiko with. But at least, SPC doesn't do full swing.

3. Keiko v. Shiyai - Mentality
SPC said that I hesitate.
He said that while keeping the proper distance (and attacking the opponent when he invades my comfort zone), I should never back up during keiko. In keiko, I'm practicing my forward feeling, so I should always go forward and never back up. If he comes in, I attack (NOT step back). If I keep moving back, he will just come in and attack me.
In shiyai, it's different. When both are too close, you can step back and re-adjust. But, even then, you don't wanna back up too much too often.

4. Stepping
My stepping was weird. I raise my right foot too high. I felt awkward, and it looked awkward. SPC said that I should move forward as if I'll be stepping on his toe.

5. Stance
SPC asked me if my back leg (left leg) was straight. I was.
He said that whatever I feel comfortable, I should do. He also bends his front leg (right leg) a little and straightens his back leg.
When we were doing keiko, in Kamae, he said "get ready.....wait......wait......wait....." then when he attacked, I went for Men.

6. Practicing Suburi
SPC practices 50 Suburis a day. He said I should do at least 100.
He also said doing kendo 2 times a week will not really improve me much.
True. People in Korea (and I'm sure in Japan too), they do things everyday.

7. Finally
Many people will tell you different things, but you gotta find what sounds right and feels right to you.
I wished that I could be like him. So, I'll incorporate whatever he tells me.

Lessons from YMGCH Sensei

After the 1st practice, I went to YMGCH sensei and asked him a few questions. Here are his answers:

1. When I do keiko, I've always practiced a single strike, meaning I go for single Men, single Kote, or single Do. Once I close the gap between me and the opponent, I look for a chance I and go for the single strike but could never do double strikes (ex. Kote-Men) or other techniques because I'm already face-to-face with the opponent (too close). What should I do?

- YMGCH sensei said that I should have a proper distance in Kamae position. He said that most people are too close (i.e. their shinai is already crossing in the middle. that's too close), so they only can strike once. I should be further apart and have the proper distance, so even if I go for Kote and miss it (or Men and miss it), I should still have more distance to go for the second attack. I should work on this during keiko.

2. How should I attack? I mean, I know when we Kamae, we look for opening and go in when we see it. But, in reality, it's really hard to see the opening when we're just standing against each other.

- You have to ALWAYS watch your opponent and NEVER take your eyes from your opponent. Then, you use Seme to the Tsuki to pressure the opponent. He will react in someway (but he will ALWAYS react no matter what). Then, there's always openings and you go for that opening. To do this, I should practice what YMGCH sensei taught us the other day (i.e. the practice where Motodachi comes to me for Men and I slightly move forward diagonally to avoid getting hit). I should practice watching the opening and his strike and reacting to it.

- He said that there's also opening when the opponent moves forward. That split second, I can attack because opponent cannot do anything. I've learned that from YMGCH sensei and I've put it to use already. However, I cannot always stand there and wait for him to move. Thus, to pressure him to move, I must use Seme (like explained above).

3. I see the opening, but by the time I act, it's too late. The opponent already blocks it or moves his arms to avoid getting hit. For example, when I see Kote opening and go for it, he already moves his arms so I end up hitting his upper arms. Or, when I see Do opening and go for it, he already lowers his arms and blocks it.

- You gotta be quick (and precise). ( I guess that comes with practicing Suburi many times, thus getting stronger arms for using shinai faster)

4. Finally, YMGCHI sensei said the best way to practice all these is to do Yakusoku keiko (planned (or agreed) keiko where you and the partner agree to attack certain place and practice techniques and timings).

What a valuable lessons from YMGCHI sensei!
I wanted to sit there and wanted to hear more and more.
I felt like the more I hear, I'll get better.
However, I thought there's no use in hearings only but to actually do them.
So, I told the sensei that I'd practice them and ask further questions if I have any.
He smiled.

How to Pick Up a Shinai on the Floor

Today, I had chance to pick up a shinai on the floor.
(Twice today)

I just picked it up while standing.

HSKW sensei corrected me, and told me that:

Pick up the shinai with your one knee down.

Next Step 2

After the practice, I expressed my frustration to Spammy that I cannot be natural in keiko because I constantly think about what I should do or what I should not do.

He said that my mind can do only one thing at a time.
So, if I start thinking different things at the same time, my mind becomes unnatural and does not flow smoothly.
(He compared it to a rock swinging around that is attached to a string. If it is constantly swinging, it's smooth and natural and has no openings and can attack any time. But, if it stops --thus falls---here and there, it constantly opens and cannot effectively attack anytime)

I must be constantly smooth, constantly see the openings and constantly be able to attack. But, if my mind if occupied with this and that (many things and concerns), it stops me.
For me to be natural in my techniques (thus my whole body and mind be free and natural), I must practice those techniques so make it to become my second nature, thus I should not think about it but be natural.

Many practices of basics and Yakusoku keiko is the key (Spammy said).

Next Step

I did keiko with Spammy.

Spammy said that I should see the opening or make the opening and create the opportunity to attack.

Until now, my attacks have been very simple.
Just Men, Kote, or Do.

Now, when the opponent pushes my shinai away, I should use that force to bring that shinai to attack.

I should study all these Waza and how to use Seme and create openings or see the openings and attack.

This is same as what UG told me as well.

This is the next step and I've reached a plateau of my kendo training right now.

Spammy said that Yakusoku keiko (promise sparring?) is the only to improve my techniques.

Special Session by YMGCH sensei

Today, we had YMGCH Sensei's special session for the basics.
His lecture touched on all the basics from how to wear and fold kendo uniforms, wear bogu, etc.
Then, all the basics of kamae, etc. Afterwards, some basic techniques. Lessons I learned:

1. Kendo
He said that kendo builds character through the training of the swordsmanship.

2. Basics
He said that as the rank and techniques rise, our basics tends to stay because we work on our basics less. But, we must also constantly work on basics to bring it up as same as other techniques. Kendo is not about getting points, but it's about building character and doing it right.

3. Moving to the side
I step toward the opponent, then when he comes for Men, I step side (while moving forward) -- thus moving diagnostically. I felt this while doing keiko with YMGCH sensei before. I went for his Men, but he came towards me then right passed me. He said that I need to get that timing. If I move too early, then the opponent can still get my Men (KN did it today). So, I have to move forward and see it coming then pass the opponent to the side.
YMGCH sensei said I'm still too late (meaning that I move to the side too early so the opponent can hit my Men).

4. Making the openings
I asked YMGCH sensei that when I'm faced with opponent, I don't know how to attack.
He said that I should step forward and move the opponent's shinai to the side (which makes opening) then go for Men. He probably meant that I should make opening, constantly see his opening...

There were alot more that I wished I could engrave all of them in my heart.

No Point But with Soul

I watched a video clip about Japan's 8th Dan test.

This person named Ishida said something that impacted me.

"My friends told me that I attack with soul even though I do not score the point."

WED - Feedback

1. HSKW sensei - "your feet are still too wide apart."

2. SHRKU sensei - "keep your kendo."

3. TKHSH sensei - "you still drag your back foot a little bit."

Big Motion in Further Distance

I did keiko with Mr. Y and he seemed to prevail when we both go for Men at the same time.

I asked this to UG after the practice, and he said that Mr. Y pushes his arms forward, while my Men is too small.

He said that we are too close and Mr. Y pushes his arms forward while my Men is too small, so his power prevails my small Men.

In my mind, if it's too far, I felt like I couldn't reach him AND the opponent can see me coming already. But, I guess that's not the way it really is.

UG said that I must be further apart, and make bigger motion when going in.

If I want to use Seme as I go in, then I must be even further to take that extra step forward as I go in for Seme (then Men).

My Bigger Motioned Men will prevail the opponent's men.

I said I wanted to be fast, that's why my Men was smaller but faster in going in (thus probably lack of strength).

UG said,
"Remember, Speed and Strength will only get you to certain point. But, Basics and Good Foundation will surpass those and prevail in the long run."

Well said.

Kote

SHRKU sensei told me today that when I go for Kote, my whole body (he called it "waist") must come forward as well.

He said that my Kote does not carry the whole body.

So, when I go for Kote, my whole body (waist) must go forward.

Active Learner

Spammy mentioned in his email that we should be active in learning kendo.

We should not wait for sensei to come and teach us, but we should seek the sensei's teachings actively.

Today after the practice, I asked SHRKU sensei how as my kendo, and he gave me some comments. I also asked UG, and he gave me some comments. I also asked Rich and he gave me some comments. Now, it makes sense.

UG said that senseis cannot come each individual to tell us because that'll take up everyone's time during the practice. And, during the practice, that's when we practice our skills. Afterwards, we should go to the sensei and learn. He said that many people just come, go through the motions and never really learn why and how.

Fortunately, as for my beginner stages, Spammy was always there for me to answer questions and tell me lessons.

One at a time

Spammy wrote in his blog that we should practice certain techniques one at a time.

Good point.

For me:

1. (Keep the proper posture) - been working on it.
2. Keep the proper stance - must work on it.
3. (Be forward minded) - been working on it.
4. Work on Seme - must work on it.

Is this too much?

Toe Curling

Spammy showed me how the Toe-Curling works.

Basically, in Kamae, you curl your right foot toe. But, you follow up with your left foot immediately. That way, your whole body can move forward.

The purpose is to move your body forward to get yourself ready for attack,
and to break that moment when your body is froze and can't move.

Working on my stance

Today, I asked PR how he fixed his stance. He said that he practiced everyday at home. He said that he felt very uncomfortable in the beginning, but he fixed it after he practiced everyday at home doing suburi with proper stance.

When I observed his keiko with SPC, PR's feet were perfectly close together.

HSKW senior sensei also showed me the correct stance. When I told him that it's very uncomfortable, he said that I should practice and fix it.

I should do that.

Younger Senseis: KN from OCB and UG

I've already mentioned that the biggest influence in my kendo are:
YMGH sensei, SPC, and Spammy.

But these days, I learn a lot from 2 more people:

UG and KN from OCB.

UG's kendo is proper, straight, and strong. I can see that he also has very good timing.
(He also stresses a lot on timing)

KN from OCB has proper and clean technique. I try to observe his basic techniques during the basic practice sessions. His strikes are exact, too.

Playing Against High-Same-Low Rank

Today, UG told me that:

When I'm playing higher rank, I should learn from them.

When I'm playing same rank, that's when I play normally.

When I'm playing lower rank, that's when I work on my timing, techniques, observing habits, etc.
(Basically practicing my skills)

Spammy told me the same thing before.

Play your opponent

After today's practice, UG told me that I still need to practice what he said last week.
'Play your opponent'

It means:
1. Know what your opponent is good at and use that against him.
For example, if he's good at Men and keep coming with Men, then I should do the technique that would counter his Men for my advantage.
2. Think about what he would do if I do this. If I step forward with Seme, how he would react, and what I would do next. I said it requires too much thinking, then UG said I must practice until it becomes natural so that I don't have to think about it.

One interesting thing I learned from UG:
I must study the opponent so I know what he's good at, what he likes to use the most, etc. He said that it's like robbing a house. I must know when people leave home, when people come in, etc.

UG seems to stress timing. I've seen his kendo, and he's fast. I guess that's what happens when you're good at timing. (that's what he said)
I kinda felt that I had couple good timed attacks, but I feel like I haven't really grasp that yet.
Sometimes I can kinda sense what the opponent will come. But, sometimes not.
UG advised that I should go for what I think he might do, then eventually, I'll be able to sense his timing.

All too difficult to grasp for me. I must think about it more.
But, Ai-Kote-Men is a good example for timing.

Putting my feet closer

Last week, HSKW sensei mentioned that my feet are too wide apart in kamae.
(meaning, my Right foot is way too forward and my Left foot is way too backward)
Today, UG and NG also mentiond the same thing. UG said:

It should be shoulder width aprt,
Right foot step forward, Left toe starting at where the right foot ends.
(and back part of the Left foot slightly raised)

When I tried to correct it, it was so comfortable. I realized that I've been doing the wrong form all along and now when I try to correct it, the correct form feels so uncomfortable.

I told UG that this closer stance does not give me a stable stance. I felt like I could be run over by the opponent if he charges towards me. He suggested that just when I see him coming, I could either:
1. extend my Left foot backward to get that stable stance, OR
2. move to the side and do the Tayatari-Men backward.

He said, "use your head."

I should work on correcting this. UG suggested that I talk to PR about it cuz he fixed this kind of bad form.

I thought that it also might be the reason why I kept raising my back foot (Left foot) when I go for Men b/c my Left foot is already far back, so I could not reach forward enough.

Spammy, Spc, YMGH sensei - Part II

Ever since I was in high school, I've pictured these 3 people in certain images:

1. Spammy - when I thought about Spammy's kendo style, I imagined a powerful and massive rock slide from a rocky mountain.
(I guess his kendo style is powerful)

2. Spc - for Spc's kendo style, I imagined a brief wind that's passing through a quiet Japanese garden.
(I guess his kendo style is swift - or good timing)

3. YMGH sensei - for YMGH sensei's kendo style, I imagined a stone statue slowly but firmly approaching me. No matter what I do, I couldn't stop him. I have no choice but to attack him. And, once I pass him, he turns and comes to me again...hitting all my openings...constantly.
(I guess his kendo style is perfect - although no such thing as perfection exists in this world)

Spammy, Spc, YMGC sensei

I read Spammy's blog today, and it mentioned 2 people that I admire the most in kendo.
(Aside from Spammy)

I thought it would be worth copying and mentioning in my blog:

"But of all the Kendo I've experienced, there are two people whose Kendo I admire most of all: Gooch and Spanky.

I suppose it doesn't matter why I appreciate their Kendo as I do. It's all subjective, but I'll state my reasons anyway:

• Despite their differences in style, strength, and speed, they both strike with honesty, a quality that is hard for me to articulate, and more easily experienced.
• I like how they look as they are performing Kendo.
• Despite everyone having ego, I never feel it from them in an arrogant manner."

I want to know how I can be like them.

Additionally, I like Spammy's kendo because:
1. His kendo is proper yet strong and fast (I should say good timing).
2. His kendo is clean and no unnecessary movements.
3. He has understandable reasons (if not, good explanations) for every movement and technique, and he has made them to be his own. Further, he explains them to me in understandable manner.

I haven't had much experience with other senseis or kenshis, but I guess, knowing Spammy, it is safe to say that I admire Spammy, Spc, and YMGC sensei the most in kendo.

One at a time...

Spammy came to practice today. But, I didn't get to practice w/ him cuz Yj called me to do keiko w/ him and then we practiced waza together afterwards.

But I got to work on Tsuki (thrusting) and Ai-Kote-Men (hitting the kote at the same time as the opponent when he comes in kote, then go for men).

Things I learned today:

1. I did keiko w/ Yamaguchi sensei today, and like Spammy told me, he constantly knew my openings. And, he constantly pressured me to see his openings and go for him. He didn't let me just stand there, but constantly came in to me.
That's how my mind should be like. Constantly looking for openings and going for it.

2. Spammy said that I should work on kendo little by little in each practice. I shouldn't try to do too many things in each practice. So, today, my objective was same as last time except that I added 1 more thing:
1) Keep the good posture.
2) Always have that going forward mind.
3) Don't try to block the opponent's attack.
(I wanted to work on my leaving left foot dragging, but I didn't get to work on that)

3. After the practice, Yj told me that when he watched me practicing w/ other people, I was good. My forms are pretty clean (although still dirty - meaning still sloppy) and I do what I want to do.
But, when I do keiko w/ higher ranks like Yj, he said he could see me coming b/c my attacks are so simple and foreseeable. So, I should be able to play the opponent now. I should upgrade my attacks and control the opponent in the way I want him to react. He said that he thinks that I'm at that level now.
I believe this takes more than just simple single attack, but now higher wazas. But, I was so happy to hear a compliment from Yj.

Always Men

Spammy's blog mentioned Hirata sensei's teaching.

When in doubt, always go for men.

It's better to take the chance and make mistakes than losing the opportunity.

So I do I must.

Don't Show Your Fear!

Yesterday, on Monday practice, Kinno sensei tsuki me twice. It hit me so right that I was afraid to try anything. I was scared.
After the keiko, Yuji said, "Even if you get hit, don't show your fear!"

Stick to the Basics

Last Wednesday, Spammy told me to:

1. Always keep my posture straight.

2. Don't be lured by the opponent's attack by trying to block it, but keep myself straight. Even if I get attacked, look for the opportunities to attack.

3. If I get hit, get hit. But, learn from that hit and don't waste it. Always learn something from it. Always go to kendo with objective to learn something or practice the right technique. Don't just go and try to hit. Doing the right technique is better than just hitting the points.

4. Always have that forward feeling, which means, always look for the opportunities to attack even if I'm back up.

Yesterday on Monday practice, so I did.
Result was that, after the practice, Shoraku sensei came to me and said, "Keep your kendo. It is good."

Starting my kendo blog

Spammy started a kendo blog, and it helps me tremendously.
Spammy always makes things very clear and explains everything in detail.

So, I read his blog, consider his thoughts and reflect upon my own experiences in kendo in each practice. That's the purpose of this blog.

I write my own thoughts and lessons learned so that I don't forget or I can come back later and remind myself.

Thanks Spammy!