The way of the sword
What is kendo?
The Japanese form of fencing, developed in the 17th century to train body and mind in times of peace as well.
Since then, the sword techniques of kendo have been used to improve physical fitness, posture, concentration, commitment and self-discipline. In Japan, kendo, and not judo or karate, is the largest martial art, with some 5 million practitioners. Anyone can practise it, at any age, both recreationally and competitively.
What does it look like?
Just like in Japan, you train with the shinai, a bamboo sword used to strike or thrust at the opponent's head, wrist, body and throat. These targets are well protected by the armour you wear.
What stands out is that there is more shouting than in other martial arts. These shouts put pressure on the opponent and also help you control your breathing. Together with the focus on technique and tactics and the fast exchanges of strikes, this makes kendo a very explosive sport.
How do you start?
Kendo asks for different movement skills than other sports or martial arts. That is why we first teach you the basic movements in a beginners course of 10 lessons. A new course starts twice a year, in February and September.
You don't need full armour during the course, and afterwards you can borrow a set from us for another six months.
Want to learn the language and customs of the dojo in advance? Read about terminology and etiquette.