Wikipedia
Chūdan-no-kamae
''For the more generic use of the word chūdan in Japanese martial arts, meaning "middle-level," see Chūdan.''
, occasionally Chūdan-gamae, or simply Chūdan as it is shortened to in many Japanese martial arts schools that instruct in the use of the katana (sword). Chūdan-no-kamae translates to "middle-level posture." In most traditional schools of swordsmanship, and in the practice of kendo, chūdan-no-kamae is the most basic posture. It provides a balance between attacking and defensive techniques.