What is Kendo

What is Kendo? Kendo, the way of the sword, is a modern martial art based on ancient kenjutsu (the art of swordsmanship). The word Kendo is made of the characters ken (sword) and do (way or path); a way of life following the practice of Kendo. Kendo began to take its modern appearance during the late 18th century with the introduction of protective equipment. Kendo practice is composed of solo exercises, Kata (pre-arranged forms), and training with a partner or opponent. Like other martial arts, Kendo requires discipline and dedication to training. Less | More On Kendo

New students begin with learning the basics of etiquette, postures and footwork; and how to properly utilize a sword. Eventually, students begin practicing methods of attack and defense with partners using armor and shinai. As students progress they join regular training which includes competition, kata and other exercises. Kata are pre-arranged sequences of motions that demonstrate various aspects of the art. Kendo kata are practiced between two people using solid wooden swords called bokken. Repetitive practice of kata leads to increased awareness and deeper understanding of the underlying principles of Kendo.

The purpose of Kendo practice is to:

Kendo history

Kendo is the art of Japanese swordsmanship and has a rich and long history. Japanese swords were originally straight and flat and not curved as they are today, they were crude and primitive and only used for striking and thrusting.

The Japanese swords that we see today first appeared around the year 940, are slightly curved and have a single edge. Before these 2 handed swords were developed, battles centered around warriors on horseback who wore heavy armor and held their swords in their right hands. Around the sixteenth century, the type of battles changed to foot soldiers wearing light armor and techniques using a sword held with both hands. By the end of the sixteenth centaury it has been estimated that there were more then Two Hundred sword schools.

It was not until the 1800's that any serious thought was given to protective armor to protect the trainees from permanent disability or even death during vigorous training bouts. In 1871 the Japanese Ministry made the study of Kendo compulsory in Japanese schools. then the impetus to adopt Western culture caused many sword schools to close. Famous fencing masters held exhibitions around the country and drew great interest from many people who had never been allowed to train in Kendo.

Unfortunately, Kendo went into decline after World War Two because the allied occupational forces banned Kendo. the ban was lifted in 1948 and supporters of the sport immediately restored it to its former popularity. By 1957, Kendo became one of Japan's national sports and the All Japan Kendo Federation was also created.