Kendo does not require the great amount of training which is called for in other martial arts. Right from the start, the kendo student will be involved in the excitement of fighting with all kinds of opponents, ranging from those who are highly skilled to fellow students who are just beginning to learn the techniques.

The new student of kendo learns and practises the basic techniques such as the different cuts, thrusts, slicing movements and parries shown in the following pictures. These techniques must be repeated many times to enable the fencer to gain physical and mental co-ordination as well as balance and sureness and grace of movement. Before the outset of a training session, the fencer must loosen up by means of calisthenic exercises such as stretching (to afford suppleness), jumping (to increase leg strength) and skipping (for co-ordination).

On completion of the initial exercises the fencers normally train without full armour, practising the various techniques and movements by cutting the air time and time again. After this the fencers learn new tactical blocking and striking manoeuvres which can be experimented with in free training (keiko).

Having finished the basic training exercises and the instruction period, the fencers then dress in full armour. At this stage they face each other, the senior members (yudansha) on one side and the junior students on the other. A formal bow indicates mutual respect and is part of the kendo etiquette.

The fencers involve themselves in kirikaeshi which is a repetition of cuts and parries; one side attacks forward while the other side blocks the attacks as they move backwards. The process is then reversed. The correct form of kendo movement is also practised in kirikaeshi. The kendo step is similar to a skip. The right foot moves forward a few feet and the left foot is moved only a few inches. The rear leg then pushes forward again as the front leg steps out. This gives a spring-like action. If one foot passes the other, as in walking, this is termed a pace.

The most enjoyable part of kendo is free training (keiko) where opponents of different stature and skill face each other in an actual combat situation. Both attack, parry and feint to find an opening to strike at. Speed and agility of mind and body as well as flexibility combined with instant reactions are necessary to be successful in fighting. It is very important for the fencers to change partners as often as possible to give the individual many opponents of varying degrees of height, build and skill. This will enable him to gain a variety of experience.

A fencer’s whether in the practice hall (dojo) or in a competition, will be called upon to enter a shiai. This is a strictly controlled dual of two fencers who endeavour to strike and score winning cuts on each other while under the observation of referees and judges. This differs from keiko (free training) in that no experimentation or chance techniques can be risked or a point will be lost. Alertness (zanshin) must be heeded at all times as a moment of relaxation or loss of concentration could end the contest.

As in most other martial arts, kiai (shouting) is used to aid training and fencing. This is made by exploding air from the stomach and mouth as opposed to shouting from the throat. The names of the part of the armour about to be struck are usually shouted out. This indicates confidence in ability as well as complete mental and physical reaction and co-ordination.

To start training in kendo all that you require by way of equipment is a suit of armour and a bamboo sword, called a shinai. These can be bought at any martial arts shop. Your local sports shop could probably arrange to get this equipment for you.

Kendo is an excellent means of keeping your body fit and in trim as well as being one of the most effective forms of mental training. At the same time you can gain much enjoyment and friendship with others who are interested in this ancient but extremely vital sport.

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