A Beginner's Guide To Kendo May 2026

: A practice sword made of four bamboo slats held together by leather. It is used for full-contact striking.

: Consists of a Keikogi (heavy cotton jacket) and Hakama (traditional pleated trousers). These are traditionally navy blue. A Beginner's Guide to Kendo

Kendo is often said to "begin and end with a bow." Etiquette is not just a formality; it is central to the practice of Budo (martial ways). : A practice sword made of four bamboo

: Never step over a shinai or other equipment lying on the floor, as it is viewed as an extension of the soul. These are traditionally navy blue

Beginners typically start with basic clothing and a practice sword before progressing to full protective armor ( Bogu ).

A Beginner’s Guide to Kendo: The Way of the Sword Kendo (剣道), which translates to "the Way of the Sword," is a modern Japanese martial art descended from the swordsmanship of the samurai. It combines rigorous physical activity with mental discipline, focusing on character development through the application of the principles of the katana. 1. Philosophy and Etiquette (Reigi)