Kendo
Kendo is a modern Japanese martial art involving sword fighting, and comes from the ancient Japanese art of swordsmanship (kenjutsu). Kenjutsu originated from the Samurai in feudal Japan.
Kendo translates from Japanese as "way of the sword".
Origins
Samurai were in Japan as early as the 1100s, and swordsmanship has been central to their training since that time. The Samurai established schools of kenjutsu, and the art has evolved from there to today, where the most common form is Kendo.
Concept and Purpose
In 1975 the all Japan Kendo Federation established "The Concept and Purpose of Kendo", which is as follows:
- To mould 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.
- Thus will one be able:
- To love one's country and society;
- To contribute to the development of culture;
- And to promote peace and prosperity among all peoples.
Weapons
Kendo practitioners use Katana almost exclusively. Body armour is also commonplace in training.
For more information please go to: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kendo
Author: The Bear Martial Arts Team
