What is Kendo?

Kendo is the ancient art of Japanese sword fighting. Derived from the ancient sword fighting techniques of the Samurai Warrior of Japan, Kendo, which means "the way of the sword," encompasses both the physical and mental skills.

Kendo in its present form was established following World War II, although it originated in the 14th century. As with many other martial arts, it is more than just a sport, and stresses the importance of spiritual practice along with sword fighting. In Japan, it is taught as part of the school curriculum and many adults use it as their daily workout.

Competitions in Japan are televised and widely followed. Although there is a grading system using belts, an interesting aspect of Kendo is that the belts are never actually worn, so a Kendo expert and a beginner cannot be told apart from their uniform. This is an example of the Samurai code, which placed modesty before pride.

Wearing protective equipment on their heads, throats, wrists and stomachs, Kendo opponents carry a sword, called a “shinai”, which is made of bamboo and held with both hands. It can be seen as a Japanese form of fencing, but its own very unique style, rules and techniques. Points are scored when strikes are made on the appropriate body part of the opponent (which is why this protective gear is worn). Kendo fighters also vocalize their scores as they occur, which makes this sport interesting to watch. The training of the mind and strengthening of character is also an important of Kendo, and, as all martial arts, is expected to be followed not just in the practicing of the sport, but also in daily life. Kendo is considered one of the most physically demanding of all the martial arts.

Kendo requires its practitioners to have the following training gear: Kendo Outfit (Gi and Hakama), a shinai (bamboo sword) and later Kendo amour (Bogu) and bokto (wooden sword). No footwear is worn as Kendo is practiced bare footed.

Kendo is a Martial art that is practiced by men and women of all ages and is a martial art that can be maintained throughout ones life. More importantly, the lessons learnt in Kendo can be integrated into ones life and be applied to both the internal development of oneself as well as the development of the self to be able to live more harmoniously in ones environment.

The purpose of practicing Kendo is:
To mould the mind and body,
To cultivate a vigorous spirit,
And through correct and rigid training,
To strive for improvement in the art of Kendo,
To hold in esteem human courtesy and honour,
To associate with others with sincerity
And to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself.

This will make one be able:
To love his/her country and society,
To contribute to the development of culture
And to promote peace and prosperity among all peoples.

"The Concept of Kendo" was established by All Japan Kendo Federation in 1975