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What is Kendo?

Kendo is a modern Japanese martial art that is rooted in traditional Japanese swordsmanship. Kendo practice involves the use of protective armor (bogu) and a slatted, bamboo sword (shinai). While a weapon-based martial art that involves sparring, kendo – like other modern martial arts such as aikido and karate, is aimed at improving one’s character through martial training. 

During regular training at the dojo, classes generally consists of the following:

Kihon: practicing and improving one’s basics using drills

Waza-geiko: Drills focused on improving specific techniques

Uchikomigeiko, kakarigeiko: High intensity drills where repeated strikes are performed on a partner with vigor and full commitment

Jigeiko: Free-sparring, where one applies their techniques with a partner in a “live” environment

Outside of regular classes, there are opportunities to compete in kendo tournaments, attend seminars, and attend grading panels to advance in your kendo journey.