A Brief Overview of Kendo
Kendo is a Japanese martial art that means the way of the sword. It is a popular type of swordsmanship that was developed from a combination of traditional swordsmanship techniques called kenjutsu. Kendo is in fact so popular that millions of people practice it in Japan alone, and is offered as part of the physical education program in public schools across Japan. It can be considered an equivalent to fencing in the west.
Schools and organizations worldwide may join the International Kendo Federation (IKF), which was founded in 1970.
Modern Kendo
Although it is a martial art, it can also be considered a sport, since competition is vital for practitioners to participate in. An extensive point system was developed by Naganuma Sirozaemon Kunisato (1688-1767) during the 18th century that measures the technique and how participants, called kendoka or kenshi, attack designated points on the body with a practice sword. These include different points on the head, wrist, and stomach, which are all attacked with different types of hits. It is popularly believed that the style of kendo we know today began during this time.
Because quick, powerful and direct contact is necessary during practice, practitioners are required to wear heavy body armour to protect themselves from their opponents. This heavy armour is called bogu in Japanese, and is worn over a thick cotton jacket and pants. Points during competition are achieved from striking targets on the body armour. A weapon made out of split bamboo that resembles a sword, called a shinai, is used to strike, cut, or thrust.
For more information on the bogu, or body armour for Kendo.