The title and the topic is perhaps misleading. SOMEWHERE, these pointers are probably written down. However, the flip side of that is that they’re probably written in Japanese or are in some form that the “average” kenshi isn’t ever going to come across them.
Kendo has a wonderful oral tradition (and no, I don’t mean toothbrushing). It’s how information gets passed down from sensei to student. It’s a good thing, unless you forget what the sensei told you, or if it was relayed to you in a somewhat cryptic manner, or if it seems to contradict the advice given to you by another sensei…
Watch for items tagged “Unwritten Rules of Kendo”. They are not Kendo “secrets” or anything. Just a compilation of items that may or may not be known to you. And of course, if you know of any other “unwritten rules”, please feel free to share them.
Enjoy!
Whether the fight were to be with real swords with the innett to kill or with bamboo swords in the sport of Kendo (tournament), the innett is the same. Survive and win. If you find opportunity to win by pushing your opponent out and getting closer to a point, then so be it. If your opponent loses posture or zanshin, that is their problem. In Kendo, you should always maintain a strong zanshin. If you fall out of it, then it is your fault, and not your opponent’s fault. It is at that moment that your opponent should push to their advantage. Remember, if the innett was to push your opponent around the entire court (I’ve witnessed this), then that is hansoku, and the judges will call it. If, however, your opponent is at the edge of the court and you are pushing to make an attack and THEY lose their posture or zanshin, then it is clear to ANY kendoka to make that push to put them out of boundaries and to cost them a point. Just my 2 cents.