What is kendo?
Kendo means the way of the sword. It is a martial art derived from the sword techniques used by Japanese warriors (Bushi) including the Samurai. It is a fast and exciting martial art based on traditional Japanese swordsmanship.
The origins of kendo (Kenjutsu = sword skill) can be traced back to the 14-15th century, the medieval era of Japan. There were various different styles of sword training which used to exist at the end of the 19th century. After the Samurai period, people were prohibited to carry swords by law. However, swordmanship and the morality associated with it, which had been mainly for Samurai fighters, became widespread and began to include ordinary people.
The origins of kendo (Kenjutsu = sword skill) can be traced back to the 14-15th century, the medieval era of Japan. There were various different styles of sword training which used to exist at the end of the 19th century. After the Samurai period, people were prohibited to carry swords by law. However, swordmanship and the morality associated with it, which had been mainly for Samurai fighters, became widespread and began to include ordinary people.
In kendo, a player (kendoka) uses a split bamboo sword called a shinai and strikes at specific target areas of the opponent. The kendoka wear distinctive armor protecting the head, throat, forearms and abdomen. General practice is done in pairs within a group, however the basics of footwork and cutting (striking) are usually taught to a group that practice individually. In kendo there is also the practice of Kata, in which two kendoka carry out a prescribed series of defense and attack moves with wooden or steel swords. This training is based on the traditional style of swordsmanship training and is useful for learning the theory of kendo. During training all kendoka are always required to display correct manners and respect.
