Kiri Kaeshi
Kiri-kaeshi, the repetition of strokes, is the best way for the kendoist to exercise collectively the basic action that he has learned.
In Japan it is common for the beginner to practice just kirikaeshi for the first two years of starting kendo. This training method is critical for beginners and advanced students of kendo because it improves:
- The action of the body
- Develops good footwork
- Accurate attacks
- Correct grip of the shinai
- Good ma-ai (distance between kendoka)
- Good ki-ken-tai-no-ichi (spirit, sword, body in unison).
TECHNIQUE OF KIRI-KAESHI
There is an applicable technique for both the attacker and the reciever.
IMPORTANT POINTS TO WATCH
- Make your movements as large as possible.
- Movements of your body must accompany all movements of your hands and feet, and perform all motions in an unbroken series.
- When swinging the shinai upwards, make sure that it reaches a point well above your head.
- Make the left and right strokes at an angle of about 45 degrees, beginning with a strike to opponents left side of men.
- Finish with a frontal men strike after taking sufficient ma-ai, then repeat the exercise.
- Beginners must practice correctly with slow big movements rather than with speed.
- Always end with a strike to the left side of your opponents men.
- Always keep your body upright and straight with your chin in towards your chest.
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