Kendo, which translates to “way of the sword,” is a sport with roots that can be traced back to the samurai of Japan. However, Kendo practitioners do not use bladed, samurai swords in their matches. A bamboo sword, called a shinai, is used instead. This bamboo sword can easily hurt an opponent, so protective gear is worn during kendo matches. To win a kendo match, you need to score two points and be skilled in this martial art's fighting techniques. These techniques include the harai-waza, men-uchi, hiraki-ashi and kote-uchi.
Harai-Waza, Men-Uchi
Step 1
Grip the base of the shinai’s handle with your left hand. Grip further up on the opposite side of the handle with your right hand. Hold the bottom of the sword about one fist's length away from your abdomen. Point the other end of the shinai at your opponent's throat. Control the shinai with your left hand and guide it with your right hand during a match.
Step 2
Use the harai-waza when your opponent holds his sword in a central position. Slightly drop the tip of your shinai. Quickly sweep your shinai up to your right in a semicircular motion. Hit your opponent’s sword to the side to create an opening.
Step 3
Raise your shinai above your head. Point it upward and back at a 45-degree angle. Keep your left hand level with the top of your head. Hold your left hand about one fist’s distance away from your head.
Step 4
Swiftly step toward your opponent with your right leg. Simultaneously swing the shinai outward toward your opponent’s forehead in one continuous motion. Solidly land the men-uchi on its target in order to score a point. Keep good posture and let out a spirit shout to satisfy the other requirements for the point.
Hiraki-Ashi, Kote-Uchi
Step 1
Avoid your opponent’s oncoming attack by performing a hiraki-ashi. First sidestep to your left with your left foot. Move your right foot around and behind your left foot.
Step 2
Lift the shinai over your head. Point it upward and back at a 45-degree angle. Swing the sword powerfully outward and downward on your opponent’s right forearm or wrist. Land the kote-uchi directly on its target area to score a point.
Step 3
Practice the haraki-ashi by sidestepping to your right. Lift your sword above your head and strike down on your opponent’s left wrist or forearm. Continue to keep good posture and shout while performing this strike. In actual combat, try to disarm your adversary with the kote-uchi.
Things You'll Need
- Shinai
- Face mask
- Chest protector
- Waist protector
- Gloves
