Commentary by Simon Larsen Ewa is really good at maintaining constant pressure and doing kaeshi (returning strikes) techniques. I find kaeshi techniques are really annoying, it means I have to get away from her after a successful strike so much faster and with maintained covering against her. I believe it is entirely possible in tankendo... Continue Reading →

Commentary by Simon Larsen I have a better win ratio in the teams than the individuals, especially if I play in the first position (senpo). As far as I am aware the psychology of going first is not so much to win but to set a good mood for your team i.e. if you lose... Continue Reading →

Commentary by Simon Larsen   A lot of people think jukendo is the dangerous one of the two arts but tankendo seems to have more injuries once you have achieved a basic skill level. Certainly I get hurt and hurt myself a lot more often in tankendo. I think the much shorter distances are the... Continue Reading →

Commentary by Simon Larsen This is from the next age group up. Tankendo shiai for the All Japans is not separated into Civilian / Air Force & Navy / Army groups like the Individuals for Jukendo. It is separated into age groups: 0-35, 36-50, 50+ usually.   Hisatsune loves shou ippon do. I know; he... Continue Reading →

Commentary by Simon Larsen. I was going to get Ewa drunk and just record her rantings but she insisted I write the commentary. The opening point is a good example of why maintaining your kamae is so important in shiai. Just that small amount of lifting the tip of the tanken while running in made... Continue Reading →

Commentary by Simon Larsen Alex's second match. Due to his injury he has started attempting fewer men strikes which I think is a good idea, he has a fast do strike and that scores a lot more often. On top of my personal feelings regarding men vs do there is the risk factor of having... Continue Reading →