KENDO: Sword fighting as a Martial Art
Kendo, literally translated is “the way of the sword.” It is one of the martial art forms that originated from Japan, where sword fighting is part of their ancient tradition. Kendo is definitely one activity that will test your physical endurance and your mental conditioning since this art is an interesting combination of bodily elements similar to those found and exercised by practicing sports.
Why Kendo was Developed
Kendo is an art developed for a purpose. The practice of Kendo will enable its learner to keep himself in shape, not only physically, but also mentally. Presence of mind and intense concentration are two things that a Kendo practitioner will need to have and will therefore develop further upon regular practice. Apart from these two aspects, Kendo practice also targets to improve one’s courage, character and fortitude. These will be achieved by means of strict compliance and dedication to Kendo training so that the performance in this art will be continually improved. Other important aspects that Kendo practitioners hold dear are honor, sincerity, continuous self-improvement and courtesy towards his fellowmen. Through the attainment of all these aspects, a Kendo practitioner should be able to fully express and show love for all those around him, even to the extent of loving his community, the society and ultimately his own country. With all those things coming together, the be all and end all of the practice of Kendo is to be a promoter and an example of peace and individual success to the whole world, in all aspects of the human life.
Practicing Kendo
Unlike most martial arts, training for Kendo can be very loud or noisy. This is because of two essential things for a Kendo trainee. The first noise that will be encountered during Kendo training is the shout, or what is called a kiai. This shout is merely a tool to express a Kendo practitioner’s readiness or eagerness to fight prior to or during the delivery of a strike. But definitely, to a new trainee of Kendo, the shout may be a reason for them to be afraid or to be surprised. The next noise that a Kendo practitioner produces is the stomp of the foot. The stomping of the foot that is placed in front is done at the same time that the Kendo practitioner is striking. This stomp is also called a fumikomi- ashi, which will be well executed if the training of Kendo is held in a properly constructed venue or location called a dojo.
Organized Kendo in the United States
The practice of Kendo in the United States is usually held by clubs and in dojos created specifically for the purpose of the art of Kendo. These clubs are all members of federation of specific regions in the United States called the All United States Kendo Federation (AUSKF).
In its present organization, the AUSKF is responsible for conducting assessments on a national level for the 5th degree of black belt (Dan) up, as well as assessments for championships on a national level.
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Filed under: Kendo • Martial Arts Styles
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