Kendo (剣道)

▣ What exactly is Kendo, and what does it mean to practice it in today’s world?

Kendo, which literally translates to ‘the way of the sword,’ is a modern Japanese martial art rooted in traditional samurai swordsmanship. Practitioners use a shinai (bamboo sword) and protective armor (bogu) to simulate combat, but its true essence extends far beyond mere competition. To practice Kendo today means not only honing your physical and mental skills but also cultivating discipline, respect, and inner strength, embarking on a continuous and profound journey of personal growth.

▣ How has Kendo evolved from ancient samurai techniques?

Kendo traces its roots back to the sword-fighting schools (kenjutsu) of feudal Japan’s samurai. To make training realistic yet safe, bamboo swords (shinai) and protective armor were developed. Over time, the focus shifted from pure combat effectiveness to character development and spiritual discipline, eventually solidifying into the modern form of Kendo in the 20th century as both an educational and a sport discipline.

▣ What are the main pieces of a kendoka’s equipment, and what are their purposes?

A kendoka’s gear primarily consists of the ‘bogu,’ which is the protective armor. This includes the ‘men’ (helmet with a face grill), the ‘do’ (chest protector), ‘kote’ (protective gauntlets), and ‘tare’ (hip protectors). The ‘shinai,’ a sword made of bamboo slats, is the weapon used for striking, while the ‘keikogi’ and ‘hakama’ are the traditional garments worn underneath the armor.

▣ What’s the fundamental difference between Kendo, Iaido, and Kenjutsu?

While all three disciplines involve the Japanese sword, Kendo is a modern fencing practice using shinai and armor, focused on sparring and personal development. Iaido, on the other hand, centers on the swift drawing and sheathing of the katana, performing forms (kata) without a direct opponent. Kenjutsu, by contrast, is the original traditional martial art of swordsmanship, often practiced with wooden swords (bokken) or live blades, and is solely focused on pure martial effectiveness.

▣ What are the main targets in a Kendo match?

In Kendo, valid strikes (yuko-datotsu) can only be landed on specific armored areas of the body. The primary targets are: the head (men), wrists (kote), torso (do), and throat (tsuki), though the latter is an advanced and less common strike. Each strike must be executed with precision, power, and a spirit-filled shout (kiai) that expresses the kendoka’s determination.

▣ How does Kendo go beyond just a sport and embrace a philosophical dimension?

Kendo is deeply imbued with philosophical and spiritual principles rooted in Bushido, the moral code of the samurai. The goal isn’t just to win, but to cultivate righteousness, respect, courage, honor, and loyalty. Through practice, you learn to control your ego, persevere through challenges, and maintain composure under pressure, thereby developing your character (ningen-keisei) and self-awareness.

▣ Is Kendo only practiced in Japan, or does it have an international reach?

Absolutely not! Kendo enjoys an extraordinary global reach. It’s practiced in over 60 countries worldwide, with active federations on every continent. The International Kendo Federation (FIK) organizes the World Kendo Championships every three years, bringing together practitioners from every corner of the globe and showcasing its popularity and cultural resonance far beyond Japan’s borders.

▣ What’s the importance of ‘Reigi’ (etiquette) in Kendo practice?

‘Reigi,’ or etiquette, is absolutely fundamental in Kendo and permeates every single aspect, from the moment you step into the dojo until the very end of training. It includes bowing (rei) at the beginning and end, taking care of your equipment, and showing respect for your sensei and fellow practitioners. It’s not just a formality; it’s a way to express respect, humility, and gratitude – essential elements for personal growth and for maintaining harmony within the dojo community.

▣ Fun Facts

• Kendo’s unique soundscape—a blend of strikes, footwork, and ‘kiai’ (shouts expressing the fighter’s spirit)—is so distinctive that there’s a specific term, ‘Kiai-gamae,’ to describe the mental and physical stance of utmost readiness, which is also audibly manifested.

• The ‘bogu’ armor is a complex piece of craftsmanship, with hand-stitched and padded sections that can take hundreds of hours to create. It’s more than just protection; it’s a symbol of tradition and dedication. When properly cared for, it can last for decades, often becoming a cherished personal heirloom.

• Despite its martial image, Kendo practitioners often use a small inner pocket in their hakama to carry a ‘tenugui’ (cotton towel). This isn’t just for wiping away sweat; it also serves as a headwrap worn under the ‘men’ (helmet) and is often adorned with proverbs or meaningful mottos that reflect the spirit of Kendo.