Learning: Knowing one another’s name can save you a hit.

Attributes: foam bokken (or folded obi)

In this fun-damental you learn very quickly each others’ names. Start by making a big circle. One person will stand in the middle with a folded obi, or an foam bokken. First round everyone speaks their name. Then the fun starts. Sensei calls a name and the person in the middle has to hit that person with the obi/foam bokken. If you don’t want to get hit, this person has to deflect by shouting someone else’s name. (Which becomes the new target).

Techniques: Shomen uchi – ikkyo / Shomen uchi – Udekime nage / Shomen uchi – iriminage

Tip: Have a round of name ‘calling’ first so everyone has heard their names twice.