Perception of Sounds that Accompany ShinaiStrikes by Collegiate-level Kendo Fencers

Abstract

This research was carried out to study how shouts, shinai (bamboo kendo sword) contact, and fumikomi(step-in foot-stamping) sounds accompanying shinai strikes are perceived by collegiate-level kendo fencers both when fencing and when refereeing. As part of this study, a questionnaire survey was administered to individuals involved in collegiate-level kendo, with survey questions distinguishing between perceptions of such sounds both when fencing and when refereeing. Our survey results revealed the following findings: (1) In referee evaluations of ki-ken-tai-icchi, sounds are perceived as being equal in importance to the visual aspects of a fencer’s physical movements. (2) Sounds created during the execution of a shinai strike are considered important by fencers while competing in a match. (3) Sounds created during the execution of a shinai strike are considered even more important when refereeing other fencers’ matches than during one’s own match. (4) Foot-stamping sounds during step-in probably influence referee scoring of shinai strikes.