Kendo (Japan), meaning “Way of the Sword,” is a modern Japanese martial art involving sword fighting, based on traditional Japanese Kenjutsu. It is a physically and mentally challenging activity that combines the principles and values of martial arts with sporting elements. This Japanese sword-fighting art was developed in the 16th century to bring together a large number of different techniques.
Modern Kendo
Modern Kendo, however, was not developed until the second half of the 20th century. A practitioner of the sport is called a kendoka. Since 1975, the concept of Kendo has been expressed as follows: “disciplining the human character through the application of the principles of Katana.” Kendo is therefore an exercise in self-discipline, whereas Kenjutsu is a genuine combat technique.
Kendo originated in the samurai tradition of feudal Japan and is therefore similar to related martial arts such as iaido and jodo. It is the modern sporting variant of kenjutsu. Like judo, karate, aikido, etc., kendo belongs to budo. The sport is practiced mainly in Japan, the United States, Germany, and France. Kendo has also become widely known outside Japan. In the Netherlands, kendo has been practiced for more than 25 years, and there is a dojo in most major cities.
The Sport of Kendo
Kendo is taught using “swords” made of split bamboo, called shinai. The practitioner (kendoka) wears extensive protective armor (Bogu). In kenjutsu and “kendo kata,” boken (wooden swords) and katana (steel swords) are used. In modern kendo, there are two types of attacks: strikes and thrusts. Strikes are only permitted on specific parts of the body: the top and temples of the head, the right and left sides of the body, and the forearms. Thrusts may only be aimed at the throat; or at the top of the chest protector as a defensive move, or to push the opponent away before attacking, for example, the head. Since an incorrectly placed thrust to the throat can cause injuries, this technique is generally not used at beginner level and is introduced only later.
During competitions, points are awarded only when attacks are executed correctly, in a controlled manner, and with determination. The attacker must also indicate which part of the body they are attacking with a (Japanese) shout (kiai). For example, when the target is the opponent’s head, the shout “men” must be made. For an attack on the wrist, “kote” must be called. An attack on the torso is accompanied by “do,” and for a thrust at the opponent’s throat, “tsuki” must be called. The winner is the first person to score two points (ippon).
The International Kendo Federation (IKF) was founded in 1970 and has members in 44 countries. World championships are held every 3 years.
