Episode 4: Kendo Competition Notes for Arbiters and Competitors

This episode provides detailed notes and procedural rules for participants and referees in a kendo competition. It begins by emphasizing the importance of proper attire and armor, including the legibility of the na-fuda on the tare, and the need to check the shinai before entering. The instructions then meticulously illustrate the steps for starting a match, including entering the shiai-jo, the distance to maintain, and the correct way to draw and sheathe the shinai. During the match, the document establishes the reasons for interruptions, the procedures for adjusting armor or replacing the shinai, and the rules for tsuba-zeri-ai positions, sanctioning inappropriate behavior. Finally, the refereeing procedures are explained, including the management of gogi (consultation), the evaluation of ippon in relation to the three phases (preparation, execution, and zanshin), and the actions to be taken at the end of the match.