Overview
Kendo, translated as "The Way of the Sword", is a Japanese martial art that embodies the principles and values of the samurai. Practitioners wear bogu that resembles traditional samurai armour and strike each other with a shinai, a bamboo sword representing the katana.
Kendo practice focuses on developing the fundamentals of footwork, sword work, and body motion through drills, sparring, and kata (set patterns). The art is not practical for self-defense; instead it helps develop discipline, character, and respect for oneself and others through rigorous training.
History
For detailed information about the origins of Kendo and its place in the modern world, please check out the links below:
Influence
Kendo is a worldwide martial art and is practiced by people of all ages. There are over 5000 players in Canada (and over 1 million players in Japan)! It is a great way to challenge yourself, stay active, and make new friends.
The Concept of Kendo
The concept of Kendo is to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the Katana (sword).
- The All Japan Kendo Federation
The Purpose of Kendo
The purpose of practicing Kendo is:
To mold 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 honor,
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 All Japan Kendo Federation