 Kendo,
the art of Japanese Fencing, envolved from a martial heritage reaching
back over a thousand years to the time of the early sword-bearing
classical warriors who came to known as -bushi- or -samurai-. These
warriors were in the main disciplined, moral men whose conduct was
governed by a strict code and whose function was to maintain social
order. After some 800 years, political changes eliminated the need
for the samurai-class and their power diminished. Gradually, the
sword fell into disuse as a military weapon and sword training began
to be practiced by some as a sport, by others as a means of character
development of spiritual refinement. To reduce serious injuries,
asafe practice weapon made of bamboo and lightweight armor were
deviced. By the 19th century, Kendo, utilizing this equipment, had
largely supplanted the earlier, more dangerous methods of training.
Modern Kendo is both physically and mentally demanding. A Kendo
bout with skilled opponent is an intence experience. For a moment
in time concentration is absolute, concious thought is suppressed,
action is instinctive. Such training develops in the serious student
powers of resolution and endurance under pressure which frequently
affect his or her life beyond the confines of the training hall.
Kendo as practiced today is the result of refinements in the use
of the Japanese sword spanning more than 1000 years.KEN, meaning
sword and DO, meaning way of path, translates loosely as "
The way of the sword." On the surface Kendo appears to be only
a physical activity: but beneath the surface are many benefits that
may be acquired over a period of the time through honest, since
effort and self-examination. Kendo did not start as a clearly defined
art, it evolved over centuries of trial and error through combat
known as " Kenjutsu ", to the present from which on the
surface may be called a sport. Kenjutsu is the use of the katana
in combat: Kendo is the use of the shinai, bamboo sword, to make
strikes to a limited number of targets. Kendo theory establishes
the following priority of importance for physical and mantal aspects
of technical skill> ichi-gan(first-eyes), ni-soku(second-feet),
san-tan(third-courage), shi-riki(fouth-strength). The cultivation
of the human spirit through Kendo also enhances our daily lives
in work, relationships, knowledge and relaxation. Read more about
Kendo. |