Kendo

Kendo is the way of the sword and is derived from the ancient traditional Japanese martial art of kenjutsu. Kenjutsu dates back to 789 AD, whose development is linked to the ancient art of Japanese sword making and swordplay. During this time, young noblemen in the city of Nara, then the capital of Japan, were instructed in komutachi, the sword exercise. Japan underwent a period of stability during the early Tokugawa period in the 1600 - 1700s, and kenjutsu became more intellectual and philosophical transforming into modern day kendo. While only the bushi or warrior class almost exclusively practiced kendo and kenjutsu previously, today kendo is practiced by almost anyone. Many high schools in Japan include kendo as part of their curriculum. Musashi Miyamoto, one of Japan's most famous swordsmen, once said "to win the battle is to be prepared to die". This is the philosophy of kendo - practitioners who are afraid of being hit often lose mentally and consequently lose the fight. In kendo emphasis is placed on taking the initiative and seizing control. Kendo training involves the use of the shinai, or swords made from split bamboo, and practitioners wear extensive protective armour known as bogu. Points are scored by delivering strikes in proper technique on valid targets on an opponent's body. Kendo practitioners are trained to react intuitively, with fluency and elegance. Speed and body movement are key to deliver a skilful strike. Kendo places great emphasis on moral values, discipline and self-control. Kendo practitioners are trained to overcome four deep-rooted mental hurdles - fear, doubt, surprise and confusion, collectively known as the "four poisons of kendo".