At Ojika Dojo we hold weekly Kendo classes where men and women of all ages, experience and abilities can train together. We accept juniors from 14 years and above with parental approval. All sessions are lead by experienced, qualified instructors with DBS certification.
Kendo is a Japanese martial art which has evolved over time to become a fast, dynamic form of sword-fencing where practitioners aim to strike their opponents head, wrist or body with a bamboo Shinai. Target areas are protected by armour to minimise risk of injury, so although it is full-contact it is also a very safe activity.
Kendo is a modern interpretation of traditional sword techniques. There is a sport/competition aspect but first and foremost it is Budo and the purpose of practice is to build character, self-discipline and respect.
Training begins with Kihon, repeating techniques until they become second-nature. Jigeiko (free practice) is the opportunity to test your practice against an opponent – Kendo is the only Japanese Sword Art that allows free-sparring. Finally there is paired Kata, where the links between Kendo and traditional sword techniques are learned.
When a new Kendoka is judged ready to wear armour by the teacher they will begin to receive attacks as well as give them; first by wearing Doh and Tare (body protection), then Kote (wrist protection) and finally Men (head protection). Once in full armour they are ready to fully join in the practice and really start to study Kendo.
There are many aspects to learn to make a successful strike in Kendo. The shinai must be properly aligned and contact made with the correct part of the blade, the movement of the sword and body must be connected and accompanied with a strong yell. The Japanese term “Ki Ken Tai no Ichi” is the core of Kendo and means “Spirit, Sword and Body as one”. All training is focused on achieving this and so beginners start by learning the basic stances (Kamae), footwork and cutting, then through repetition over many weeks of practice it begins to fall into place.
