Kendo Podcast 20: The Meanings of Kakegoe and Kata

In this episode, I am sharing the meanings of kakegoe and thoughts on Kata.
Why do you think we take jodan in the very first kata? Why do you think we strike kote while your opponent’s sword is right in front of you?
Let’s give it a bit of a thought. 

2 thoughts on “Kendo Podcast 20: The Meanings of Kakegoe and Kata

  1. I have noticed that some teenagers in Japan, and many kendoka who learn kendo overseas (outside of Japan) often say “TATATATATA”. Nobody in the dojo I attend (in Japan) use this kakegoe. I was told that this style of kakegoe is poor technique because it interrupts the flow of breath, so where does this tatatatata come from? And why is it popular with some teenagers and some famous shiai-kendo competitors? And why is it still popular when mature kendoka and sensei say it is bad?

    Thank you in advance!


    • Hi David! Thanks for your input. And I don’t really know why it is popular. Some of my students do have very unique kakegoe even though I don’t do that. Maybe I do?? 🙂
      Outside Japan, you don’t get to see many kenoists around you. You know the kakegoke, “Hi-ya!”. Who says that? I’ve never heard any kendoists say that. But in the US, you hear that on TV, movie and even in kids’ books!
      So some people get it from media such as movies. And I am sure they hear those kiai somewhere.

      Sorry but I cannot help you with that.


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