subject: Understanding Kendo As A Martial Art [print this page] "Kendo is a martial art that entails various actions. Technically, the basics are really emphasized. The movements look really simple to the eye. You learn the right footwork, the proper posture, how to swing - these are basically the things that you need to know. But then you have to practice performing these actions a hundred times over or more.
You learn the right footwork, the proper posture, how to swing - these are basically the things that you need to know. But then you have to practice performing these actions a hundred times over or more. The reason for this is because these actions need to come out by reflex. This concept is what is behind any other type of martial art. The only difference with kendo is that a weapon is being used which is the shinai. The practitioner has to become so familiar with this weapon that it would become an extension of his own body. This mastery is where difficulty comes in.
Though we may see alot of Kendo dojos or schools all over the world, the movements have become pure ad untainted over the years. Kendo has remained excellent when it comes to the level of technicality regardless of where the school is situated. However, the method of teaching is different but this is just trivial to the elements of this art. Kendo originated in Japan and has always been identified as part of its rich culture.
The practitioners of Kendo use different body protectors - the kote for the hand, the man for the head, the do for the chest and the hakayama. These protective gears make Kendo different from other martial arts. Their uniform is the embodiment of the Samurai spirit and can be paralleled with the European knights who wear metal armors.
We learn etiquette, manners, patience and discipline with Kendo. But there is one value that one can only develop from Kendo. Once a practitioner attacks, they keep constant pressure by striking nonstop. In our lives, when we put our focus on achieving something, we will surely achieve it and no one or nothing can stop us.
