SEMEAI
o Adage "Win then strike; do not strike to win" emphasizes the importance of gaining superiority over the opponent before DATOTSU
o SEME is a way to overcome opponent's strong KIAI and KENSEN; breaking the opponent's KIAI and KAMAE creates opportunity to strike
o As soon as SEME defeats the opponent's KENSEN, you must strike without hesitation
o Basic practice is done with SHINAI or BOKUTO; applications is practiced later with KENDO-GU
WHEN DATOTSU IS OFTEN EFFECTIVE
o MEN: when opponent's KENSEN is low or far to the sides
o KOTE: when opponent's KENSEN is high or to the left
o DO: when opponent's hands are raised slightly or are forward of CHUDAN
o TSUKI: when opponent's KENSEN is low or to the right
DEFLECTING THE KENSEN
o Touch (FURERU): lightly touch KENSEN to feel how the opponent responds, determine his/her TE NO UCHI; raise doubt or concern in opponent's mind
o Cover (OSAERU): lightly cover SHINAI with your SHINOGI, especially as opponent is about to move or strike; strike as soon as opportunity arises
o Quick small slap (HAJIKU): misdirect KENSEN, especially as opponent is about to strike
o Slap down (UCHIOTOSU): maintain your KENSEN in the center to capture the opportunity to strike
o Forceful slap (HARAU): deflect the KENSEN diagonally up; beware of opponent's SHINAI returning with momentum
o Twirl (MAKU): especially against someone holding the SHINAI tightly
APPLICATIONS
o SEME to TSUKI, then strike MEN or KOTE depending on response
o SEME to MEN, then strike KOTE or DO
o SEME to KOTE, then strike MEN
o Opponent retreats: use OIKOMI MEN, RENZOKU WAZA
o Opponent advances or strikes back: use DEBANA WAZA, HARAI WAZA
REFERENCES
N Sato. Kendo: Seme no Joseki. (1987) Ski Journal, Tokyo
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