Kendo: An Ancient Martial Art for Modern Fitness

In universities, YMCAs, sports clubs and private dojos across the US, the sport of Kendo is becoming more popular. “Kendo” Japanese for the “Way of The Sword”, is a modern martial art of sword fighting based on the ancient and traditional Japanese “kenjutsu”. Practioners soon learn that Kendo is physically and mentally challenging. It is a hobby that combines martial arts values and strategy with sport-like physical elements.
People that practice Kendo are called kendōka, meaning “someone who practices kendo”. After study, sparing and much practice, there is a ranking system similar to the traditional karate white to black belt. The beginning grades are called “kyu” and there are six of them. You progress to more advanced stages based on tests from your teacher. After the 6th kyu there is the “dan” level. To be a 1st level dan you must be at least 13 years old. Dan levels generally go up to the 8th level where you must be at least 46 years old and have practiced Kendo swordplay for 10 years after receiving the 7th grade dan.
To find a local Kendo “dojo” (school) you can check sites like the All United States Kendo Federation (AUSKF), where you can find news and background information on US Kendo classes, professional tournaments and championships.
Practice sessions for kendōka include warming up, cardio and strength building exercises. Techniques with samurai swords are practiced over and over so proper form and aim becomes perfect. A person must have patience and determination to practice strikes over and over until perfected. Exercises for kendōka help practioners to have explosive strength and launch themselves forward to attack, as well as back up quickly in defense. Kendōka must be in top shape to wield the Japanese swords they carry with precision and dexterity.



