Secerets on How to Kendo - Kendo Manual for Beginners

Ever since the first creation of Japanese Swords which emerged in the 11th century(middle of the Heian Era). This sword was produced for the Samurai and production advanced rapidly through the Samurai-government reign. During the Edo Era, Japan experienced a peaceful period. During this time, Techniques of ken(Japanese Sword) converted from techniques of killing people to one of developing the person through concepts such as the Katsunin-ken which included not only theories on strong swordsmanship, but also concepts of a disciplinary life-style of the Samurai.

On the other hand, as peaceful times continued, while Kenjutsu developed new graceful techniques of the Ken created from actual sword battling skills. During the Shotoku Era Naganuma developed the of Kendo-gu (protective equipment) and established a training method using the Shinai (bamboo-sword).

After the Second World War, Kendo was suspended for a while under the Occupation of the Allied Forces. In 1952, however, when the All Japan Kendo Federation was established, Kendo was revived. Kendo presently plays an important role in school education and is also popular among the young and old, men and women alike. Several million Kendo practitioners of all ages enjoy participating in regular sessions of Keiko (Kendo training).

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A crucial part of Kendo is the manner in which we conduct our behavior, both inside and outside of the dojo. The old adage that kendo both begins and ends with reigi or in short rei is used as a constant reminder to all that the purpose of kendo is the cultivation of proper manners and morals as well as the use of the sword. Therefore I shall begin and end with reigi just as the kendo practice.

The kendo practice both begins and ends with reigi which is embodied by the bow that is conducted upon entering or leaving the dojo. Just understanding the rei or bow can help the non-Japanese kenshi to understand the basic underlying philosophy. When a persons bows they are not only showing respect, but are indicating their subservience to the sensei and the seniors. An act of submission indicating they have an open mind and are ready to learn. This act is the releasing of personal pride and saying do with me what you will. This is particularly based in the Confucian system of respect for your elders, respect for authority and your ancestors. Thereby showing respect to the senior person who returns the bow saying I accept you as a student and recognize your desire to learn. This does not mean that the teacher is obligated to see that the student does learn. It only indicates the student has the chance to learn. The teachers responsibility is to see that the tradition of kendo stays alive and to carry on their obligation to their teacher. Once you begin to study you have taken on an obligation and a debt. Once you receive the gift of kendo you are obligated to pass it on.

In kendo morals, ethics and manners are all one and the same. This concept often leads the non-Japanese student to make gross mistakes in their behavior because in the west morals and etiquette are two separate issues not necessarily connected. In many Asian cultures a breach of etiquette is a moral failure. In the United States this has been a consistent point of aggravation between the cultural values of the recent Japanese immigrants and the American kenshi. Many of the modern Japanese immigrants cannot bridge the gap between the two cultures and becomes very frustrated with the American kenshi.

Learn more about etiquette and courtesy Here!