| Kimura Martial Arts Academy | ||
 |
Kendo The Way of the Sword |
|
 |
||
| Kimura Martial Arts Academy | ||
|
Kendo The Way of the Sword |
|
|
||
Kendo is a modern
Japanese martial art that is based on the fencing techniques and philosophy of
the samurai, Japan's feudal warriors. Trainees seek to discipline both their
bodies and minds in the pursuit of the art, making this a true martial
way.Kendo students wear the traditional
garb of the samurai, including a pleated skirt-like garment known as a hakama.
The most dramatic part of their equipment is the bogu, or armor, consisting of
a head piece (men), chest protector (do), mitts (kote), and hip protector
(tare).To make practice safe, kendo
practitioners don't use the long sword of the samurai (katana) except in
exhibitions. In daily practice, students use a bamboo foil known as a shinai,
which permits students to spar without fear of injury. Kendo trainees also use
hard wood swords known as bokuto in paired exercises known as kata. Most
practice, however, is done with a shinai. The object of a kenod match is to
strike the opponent cleanly and precisely in one of eight target areas: left,
middle, or right head strike, a strike on either wrist, a slashing blow on
either side of the chest protector, or a thrust to the throat. The emphasis is
on striking properly, with good form and appropriate spirit.
Kendo can be practiced by individuals
of any age. It provides an excellent aerobic workout , and combines the
excitement of competitive sparring with physical and mental training, as well
as the rich philosophical heritage of the Japanese martial arts.
Individuals interested in kendo are
invited to visit the Buffalo Kendo Club. The club, under the direction of
Hiroaki Kimura is located in the Town and Country Plaza, 6049 Transit Road, in
Depew