About Kendo

Kendo is the art of Japanese fencing.

剣 Ken (or tsurugi) is from the character meaning sword.  The character 道, for Do, (or michi), includes the meaning "way" or "path," which translates to "the way of the sword." Kendo (剣道) is a modern Japanese martial art descended from classical swordsmanship (kenjutsu) that uses bamboo swords (shinai) and protective armor (bōgu). Kendo is an activity that combines martial arts practices and values with strenuous sport-like physical activity.

In 1975, the All Japan Kendo Federation (AJKF) developed and published The Concept and Purpose of Kendo, which states:

Concept
Kendo is a way to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the katana.

Purpose​
To mold 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.

If these concepts and purposes resonate with you, Kendo training may be for you. Kendo is practiced by about six million participants worldwide.