ESSEX KENDO CLUB

What is Kendo?

Kendo means (The Way of The Sword) It is a Japanese martial art that teaches traditional swordsmanship using bamboo swords and body armour. Kendo is a martial art based on the art of Japanese swordsmanship. This ancient martial art was passed down through centuries of civil strife between the ruling Samurai classes of medieval Japan. Kendo players wear tough body armour and use bamboo swords in lieu of the steel blades used in ancient times. Kendo is an activity that combines martial arts practices and values with strenuous sport-like physical activity.

First impressions of Kendo are of a noisy, aggressive and violent full-contact martial art. Kendo is certainly dynamic, but a little study will soon reveal a high level of skill and concentration, together with a grace and physical agility that any choreographer would appreciate. Students are from all walks of life and of any age and women train on equal terms with men.​

Widely practiced in Japan and around the world it is a highly popular martial art that is enjoyed by school children, university students, professional athletes, and amateur adults. Similar in concept to western fencing practitioners compete in 3-5 minute matches where the first person to score 2 points is awarded the winner (in a best of three points system).

There are four designated target areas in Kendo, each worth one point in a match. There are strikes to the head (MEN), the wrist (KOTE), the body (DO) and a thrust to the throat (TSUKI). Competitors call their targets in a strong voice (KIAI) as they strike.

Blows must be delivered with clarity and precision using the outer third of the bamboo sword (SHINAI). The referees look for good form and a strong follow through that leaves a player in a position to continue immediately with no let up of spirit.

Individual matches are played two out of three points over a two to five minute time period (the length of which is announced before the competition). A scoreless or tied match may be extended. There are also team competitions in which a winner is determined by either the total number of points or the total number of winners. 

Kendo is a sport that is open to any age, gender and culture as Kendo is not a violent martial art but one that encourages control, technique, grace, and respect for ones opponent. 

There are many clubs throughout the UK and they all form part of the (BKA) British Kendo Association. Essex Kendo Club is very friendly and social club and as a member, you will get the training and the chance to compete in official British Kendo Association tournaments and attend various Japanese cultural events during the year. ​

The concept:

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

Purpose:
To mould the mind and body.
To cultivate a vigorous spirit, and through correct and  rigid training, strive for improvement in the art of Kendo.
To hold in esteem human courtesy and honour.
To associate with others with sincerity, and to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself.
Thus will one be able to: Love one's country and society;
Contribute to the development of culture; 

Promote peace and prosperity among all peoples.