[Koayrbzh]

Don't throw your basics out the window now that you have bogu. In fact now is the time you need to build stamina and really grove in your swing.

Take advantage of the time you spar with higher ranking motodatchi (sp?) to cut big men, holding your kiai as long as you can from execution of the strike through zansihin. The longer you can maintain kiai the better your breath control and stamina will become. If you start to hyperventilate walk it off then go back to big technique.

Be mindful of your posture. Don't bend into the strike, back straight at all times.

Remember your foot work. If you need to go faster, move your feet faster not further. Keep a solid foundation.

I suppose it is human nature to want to "score" on your sensei or fellow kenshi, but what practice should be about is building on each practice so that your kendo improves. Common sense tells you you are not going to be fast enough doing big swings to "score", but if you set aside part of your practice to do the basics and try not to break your form the rest of the time, in the long run you'll be a happier kenshi.