In Kendo practice there are sayings that express core teachings, such as:

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• 「一意専心」Ichii-senshin — single-minded, wholehearted dedication

• 「無念無想」Munen muso — a mind free of thoughts and imaginings

• 「不動心」Fudoshin — the immovable, unshakable mind

• 「明鏡止水」Meikyo shisui — a clear mirror and still water (calm clarity)

• 「気剣体一致」Ki-ken-tai icchi — unity of spirit (ki), sword (ken), and body (tai)

 

In the Kendo course, we aim to deepen these principles through the following training:

• 礼法 (Reiho) — etiquette

• 竹刀の持ち方 (How to hold the shinai) — bamboo sword handling

• 構え (Kamae) — guard/stance

• 姿勢 (Shisei) — posture

• 運足 (Unsoku) — footwork

• 素振り (Suburi) — practice swings with the shinai

• 対人打ち込み (Taijin uchikomi) — partner striking drills

• 地稽古 (Ji-geiko) — free practice/sparring

In Kendo lessons, we also learn Japanese traditions and the principles of Budo through practicing technique and proper manners.

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