Abstract
This study aimed to clarify the tactical actions and signature techniques of elite female kendoists. For
this purpose, we conducted interviews with 3 female kendoists who had competed at international level, and analyzed their narratives qualitatively. Our findings were as follows:
(1) In the preparation stage, before using their most accomplished waza, the best players adopted a stance with issoku-itto-no-maai before their opponents so that their opponents would not feel the presence of a strike, thereby controlling the maai offense and defense and kehai offense and defense.
(2) When striking with their signature technique, the best players allowed the opponent to read the signs of their strikes, anticipated the opponent’s reaction to their strikes, and then executed their signature technique.
(3) The best players adjusted their strategies depending on their opponents. They might choose to initiate the match with their signature move and execute it, or might focus on overwhelming the opponent with their energy without directly responding to the opponent. In such cases, they performed tactical actions with concentration and spirit to finish the opponent with a single blow.
(4) Outstanding players have reached a state in which they can unconsciously perform their best techniques, which they have learned through repeated practice, during a match. When they demonstrate their best techniques, they are in a state of selflessness and cannot consciously look back.
