Kendo
A Brief Overview:

Kendo, meaning "the way of the sword", is a sport that utilizes a bamboo sword, or 'shinai', and protective equipment.

The strenuous matches found in competition require confidence, quick reflexes, clarity of thought, concentration and self-discipline.

In Kendo there are four main target areas, sub-divided into left and right sides of the body - each worth one point. these are cuts to the head (MEN), the wrist (KOTE), torso (DO), and a thrust to the throat or upper chest (TSUKI).

The competitors call their attempted strikes in a strong voice (KIAI) and blows must be delivered with the upper third of the bamboo blade. Although it may appear that many cuts are finding their targets in the course of a match, a stroke must be co-ordinated with correct footwork, Kia (shout), good posture and strong follow-through in order to be considered successful.

Protective clothing and equipment and the rules of contest prevent injury. Kendo is practiced on a wooden floor; players wear a lightweight cotton jacket, a hakama and head, throat, chest, and wrist protectors.

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